Best Dispersed Camping near Intervale, NH
The White Mountain National Forest surrounding Intervale, New Hampshire provides several dispersed camping opportunities on public lands. Free primitive sites can be found along Town Hall Road, Tripoli Road, Cherry Mountain Road, and Haystack Road, all managed by the U.S. Forest Service. These areas feature designated fire rings marking approved camping spots, though amenities are minimal. Some locations like Guyot Shelter offer backcountry camping accessible only by hiking trails, while others like Town Hall Road provide riverside camping with vehicle access.
Most dispersed camping roads in this region are unpaved, with conditions ranging from well-maintained gravel to rough dirt tracks requiring careful navigation. Town Hall Road sites are accessible about two miles in from the entrance sign, with some spots large enough for medium-sized RVs. Cherry Mountain Road and Haystack Road sites are generally smaller, better suited for tents and compact vehicles. Camping is typically permitted for up to 14 days, with no reservations required. Sites lack amenities such as drinking water, toilets, or trash service. Bear activity is common throughout the region, requiring proper food storage.
"Super quiet and lots of privacy," noted one camper about Cherry Mountain Road sites, which are spaced far enough apart that campers "did not hear any other camping sounds at all." Town Hall Road receives similar praise, with one visitor describing it as "awesome boondocking in New Hampshire, what a treat in the east coast!" Sites along Tripoli Road require registration at the ranger station, with a small fee for camping. Seasonal closures affect many areas, with roads typically opening in late spring after winter conditions improve. Cell service varies significantly by location, with most remote sites having limited or no connectivity. Wildlife sightings, including bears and moose, are frequently reported, particularly at the Haystack Road sites.
