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Best Tent Camping near Jefferson, NH

1,137 Reviews

Several tent campgrounds dot the landscape around Jefferson, New Hampshire, providing opportunities for primitive camping in the White Mountain National Forest. Cherry Mountain Road Dispersed Camping offers multiple secluded tent sites along an unpaved road, with sites separated from each other for privacy. Other options include Guyot Shelter and Ethan Pond Shelter along the Appalachian Trail, providing both tent platforms and lean-to shelters for hikers.

Tent sites at Cherry Mountain Road feature fire rings but no other amenities, requiring campers to pack in all supplies including water. Most sites are arranged as small clearings alongside the forest road with room for a vehicle and tent. Sites are first-come, first-served with no reservation system. According to reviews, the campground consists of approximately nine dispersed sites, some offering more privacy than others. One reviewer noted that "each site is far apart from each other" while another mentioned that "it was so quiet I could hear the sound of crow wings flapping as they flew by."

The backcountry tent sites near Jefferson require varying degrees of effort to access. Sites like Guyot Shelter and Nauman Tentsite require hiking several miles on mountain trails to reach. Most backcountry sites provide tent platforms or designated spaces, composting toilets, and bear boxes for food storage. Water sources typically consist of nearby springs or streams that require filtration. These remote sites often serve as strategic overnight locations for hikers tackling multi-day routes or attempting summit hikes. A reviewer of Nauman Tentsite commented that it's "a beautiful camping area with several tent platforms in the White Mountains" and "a great base camp location" for accessing nearby peaks.

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Best Tent Sites Near Jefferson, New Hampshire (52)

    1. Cherry Mountain Road Dispersed

    4 Reviews
    Bretton Woods, NH
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 466-2713

    "Just past the boulders is a large fire circle with room for 6 to 8 campers to sit around the fire. We were able to collect sunlight onto our solar panel from the site."

    2. Guyot Shelter - Dispersed Camping

    9 Reviews
    Deerfield, NH
    18 miles
    Website

    $15 / night

    "Step walk in and out though most of the tent plat forms have amazing views. I have stayed here twice and had great experiences."

    "Bear box, food area, water source, cabin, Privy, and platforms."

    3. Nauman Tentsite

    4 Reviews
    Bretton Woods, NH
    15 miles
    Website

    $15 / night

    "Nice 2.7 mile hike in from the AMC highland center. Stopped at Gibbs Falls on the way up."

    "This is a beautiful camping area with several tent platforms , in the white mountains . It is an easy 3 mile hike for an adult , I did it with my 5 year old in tow."

    4. Unknown Pond

    1 Review
    Stark, NH
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 536-6100

    "You can hike in to this site from either the site can be reached from either the trailhead on Mill Brook Road (gated in winter) or from the Berlin Fish Hathcery on York Pond Road."

    5. Valley Way Tentsite

    2 Reviews
    Randolph, NH
    11 miles
    Website

    "I would not call the Valley Way trail from the parking area at Appalachia to the tent sites "easy" as you'll gain 2800 feet in elevation over the 3+ miles to the camping area."

    6. Scott C. Devlin Memorial

    1 Review
    Guildhall, VT
    11 miles
    Website

    "This is another beautiful site along the CT River Paddler's Trail. It is well maintained and tucked on a knoll in a pine forest. There is a picnic table, fire ring and composting toilet box seat."

    7. Hermit Lake Shelters

    2 Reviews
    Bretton Woods, NH
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 466-2721

    "The shelters at Hermit Lake are secluded, off-the-grid, and pristine."

    "Hermit Lake Shelter is about 2.5 miles up from Pinkham Visitor Center/Trailhead, so you're about halfway to summit – perfect place to camp for a sunrise hike. "

    8. Ethan Pond Shelter

    4 Reviews
    Bretton Woods, NH
    17 miles
    Website

    $15 / night

    "Great place to set up camp either as a thru hiker or if you're passing through for a weekend in the Whites. About 3mi from the 302, and from there you're 5mi from the AMC Highland Center."

    "Pond can be pretty buggy with black flies, particularly in June, but that's to be expected. 3 mile hike in from Ripley Falls parking lot, a nice spur trail to a water fall to explore on the hike up or"

    9. The Bluff- Great Gulf Wilderness

    1 Review
    Randolph, NH
    13 miles
    Website

    "The hike in from route 16 is relatively easy with an uphill trend. Toward the end the trail is the steepest but it's a short climb and worth the effort."

    10. Maine Railroad Trestle

    1 Review
    Groveton, NH
    13 miles
    Website

    "While reservations are not required, there is a registration page on the CT River Paddler's Trail Website that they ask folx to complete just so spots don't get overcrowded. "

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Recent Tent Camping Photos near Jefferson, NH

74 Photos of 52 Jefferson Campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Jefferson, NH

1137 Reviews of 52 Jefferson Campgrounds

  • Sarah C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 5, 2020

    White Birches Camping Park

    A little something for everyone

    This Camping Park has something for just about everyone. Whether you have an RV (small, medium or large), tent, are looking for a cabin or want a little more of a wilderness feel, this place has something to offer. 

    While the campground looks to be primarily RV camping from the road, there are many tent sites tucked away in the trees and even two sites that are walk-in only and are situated right on the Androscoggin River. Additionally, the campground has several nice cabins available as well.

    Let's start with the RV sites: there are a bunch! This campground also hosts many seasonal campers who have sites situated around the perimeter of both sides of the campground (split by Route 2). Seasonal campers have some pretty sweet set-ups for sure. The only downside to some of the RV spots is that they can be in the sun almost all day which can be a bit much in the heart of the summer. Otherwise, sites are well maintained and have all the normal hookups for RVs.

    Tent sites are well spaced and almost all of them are in the shade which is a huge bonus! Each site has a picnic table, fire ring and nice level spot to pitch your tent. Bath houses are conveniently located throughout the campground and are well maintained. 

    The two walk-in tent sites are very secluded and offer fire rings, picnic tables, a bear box and one of the two sites has a wooden tent platform. The second site's tent platform is currently being built (July 2020) and should be at the site and ready for use soon. These sites sit right on the beautiful Androscoggin River, offering a serene backdrop for your camping adventure.

    The campground is situated in-between two large tracts of the White Mountain National Forest. Great hiking is available at the campground as well as a short drive away. If hiking is a hobby of yours, look no further! This is a great location to base yourself out of to get some solid miles under your belt. There is a campground office that has a small store as well as laundry facilities. They also offer an AT Hiker Hostel. They also have a nice heated swimming pool, playground and many other amenities. When there isn't a global health pandemic, they have a bouncy house for the kids. They often show movies on the lawn when the weather cooperates. They also rent kayaks and you can launch from the campground or they will shuttle you some place near by.

    It really is a campground with a little bit of everything! Owned by locals of the community who have run the place for over 25 years.

  • Kathy S.
    Oct. 1, 2022

    Pastures Campground The

    Riverside

    Adorable little camp! In New Hampshire; Vermont is across the river on the north side of the property. Nice bathroom, showers, laundry room, library. Spacious lots with tables and fire rings. Some long time campers are set up.

  • Jean C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 27, 2018

    Big Rock

    WMNF rustic campground on the Kanc

    There are 2 Big Rock Campgrounds in NH and they are very different! This is not the resort campground convenient to ATV trails, but a rustic campground offering large, level, wooded sites along the Kancamagus Highway just 2 miles east of the Lincoln Woods Visitor Center. It's a great location for exploring the sites and beautiful vistas along the Kancamagus, easy access to Franconia Notch and Lincoln, NH. Lincoln also offers a grocery store, restaurants, stores selling outdoor gear, moose tours, and adventure tours (zip/climbing).

    Some of the sites are tent only, with parking separated from the tent pad/fire ring/picnic table. Others are large and level with ample space for RVs. You'll get some traffic noise, but there's less here than at places along 3 & 93.

    There are no reservations; all sites are first-come, first serve and it's open from mid-May to mid-October. Bring cash or a check to pay for your campsite. It's self-service with an iron ranger. Fee (2018) is $22, an extra $5 for a second car.

    Water is available. There are vault toilets and no showers. No cell phone service.

  • Jean C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 31, 2019

    White Mountain National Forest Wildwood Campground

    quiet, large sites

    I reviewed this campground last fall after visiting on the final day of the season, but I just had a chance to sty here during a peak summer weekend and have a few additional insights. Fees are now up to $20/night, still a bargain, but it comes with only the most basic amenities, i.e. vault toilets, running water at faucets, picnic tables and fire rings. Although the campground description indicates that the sites are first-come, first-served, this has changed and many of them are available online in advance. I didn't realize this and when i arrived late Friday afternoon I had 5 or 6 campsites to choose from that could accommodate my small teardrop camper; if I were tent camping, I'd have had a couple more sites available to me. The tent only sites require a short walk from the parking area.

    When you arrive, each site will be labelled either Reserved or _Open. _ If it is Reserved, the dates it is reserved will be listed and they may not be contiguous. All the sites filled up Friday night. 

    I had site 24 which I liked. it was very large and level, with ample space for today's large tents. The water spigot was near the site next door. I could see my neighbors, but they didn't bother me. Every host site always seems to look messy with tarp-covered items and wood piles and site 24 will give you a view of the host site, but it's far enough away that you can ignore it. 

    If I were in a tent, I'd try for site 22. It's a walk-in site that includes 7-8 steps down, but it opens into a large open area and just a bit beyond there is a small brook, too.

    The campground is just a few miles west of I-93 and the town of Woodstock. If you want to hike Mooselauke or the Kinsmans, the Appalachian Trail crosses 112 nearby. Lost River Gorge is nearby as are numerous tourist attractions/activities in Woodstock and Lincoln. Take some time to explore Cascade Park in Woodstock if you want to cool off in the river and lounge on the rocks (park on the street or in the lot that is north of 112 just before the traffic light at Rte 3 in Woodstock). While you're there, pick up ice cream at Coneheads; choose among numerous hard serve ice cream made on site (downstairs) or dozens of soft-serve flavors.

    This side of 112 seems quieter than the stretch east of Lincoln. Noise level was quite low. Cell coverage is non-existent for several miles around here; you'll start to get a signal closer to Lost River Gorge in the direction of Woodstock.

  • Natali S.
    Nov. 23, 2023

    Private Field and Woods Camping

    The best holiday for the whole family

    Private Field and Woods Camping in New Hampshire is a true paradise for lovers of nature and secluded recreation. After spending several days here, I was delighted with the beauty of nature and the comfort that this unique camp offers. The first thing that catches your eye is the amazing landscape.

    Situated deep in the forests, the camp is surrounded by spacious fields and wild nature. Sunrises and sunsets at this place are a real miracle that makes you forget about the hustle and bustle of everyday life and enjoy the moment. The camp itself provides unique opportunities for close contact with nature.

    The opportunity to locate your tent camp in a private field surrounded by forest creates a unique atmosphere of comfort and privacy. The absence of city noise and light pollution allows you to enjoy the silence and sounds of nature. The camp infrastructure also deserves the highest praise. Ecologically built showers and toilets provide everything you need for a comfortable stay away from civilization. Fire pits and cooking areas allow you to enjoy delicious meals cooked outdoors.

    Private Field and Woods Camping in New Hampshire is the perfect place for those who want a real getaway in nature, far from the hustle and bustle of the city. I left this place with a feeling of complete relaxation and deep gratitude to the team who created this unique corner of nature.

  • Sarah C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 31, 2017

    Dolly Copp Campground

    Just on the edge of town

    This is a perfectly situated campground. Just off the main road connection Gorham and North Conway (Route 16), this campground is just minutes from town but has a wonderful wilderness feel. While this is a relatively large campground, a significant portion of it is under construction currently (Summer 2017).

    There are several loops of sites here but each site is spacious and wooded, with lot's of shade. There are flush toilets (no showers) and water spigots throughout the campground. Some sites do experience a bit of foot traffic if they are on the way to one of the restrooms.

    There is a small welcome/registration building where you stop to register on your way in. Be careful driving through the campground, the roads are in rough shape due to the construction.

    Sites have very clean fire pits, picnic tables and plenty of space for pitching a tent or two. There are several sites here that cater more to RVs but many of the sites are very tent friendly (soft, non-gravel real estate). Sites are $22/night and $5 for each additional vehicle.

    This is a popular spot with lot's of amazing hiking in the vicinity so reserve early!

  • J
    Sep. 4, 2022

    Lafayette Place Campground — Franconia Notch State Park

    Beautiful spot, but noisy

    My first time in camping in New Hampshire, the whole area is spectacular and I felt lucky to find a spot in this campground next to the stream. There was a microburst over the campground the night I was there but the water drained down into the stream so I was not sleeping in a puddle. My site was in the row closest to the road where there was truck noise for much of the night. I recommend getting a site as far away from the road as possible.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    May. 6, 2024

    Dry River Campground — Crawford Notch State Park

    Nice place

    Cool location right on the edge of the Dry River Wilderness. Great Basecamp for lots of hikes in the area. Some spots are right on the highway with not much tree cover in between so can be loud. Some walk in sites with platforms are further from the road

    Vid is from the river off the trail that starts in the campground

  • Sarah C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 5, 2020

    Hastings Campground

    Wonderful Fall Location

    This quiet spot is perfect for late season camping in the fall in New England. It is relatively small but there is a host on site who was incredibly friendly and attentive. Situated just off the Wild River and off of major roads, Hastings was incredibly peaceful while we were there. The sites are nicely spaced out and most have small wooded sections in between them for privacy. Additionally, sites are meticulously kept as are the two pit toilets available. 

    There is a water spogit a short walk from most campsites. Each site has a fire ring with grate, clear flat spots for pitching a tent or backing in an RV. Since I'm not an RV camper, I didn't pay much attention to those ameneties. Sites have a nice picnic table as well. There is plenty of space at each site to pitch a tent or two as well as a canapoy of some sort if you want. 

    While this place can get busy in the summer season, it's perfect for those in between seasons and super close to some great hiking in the White Mountains!

Guide to Jefferson

Backcountry tent camping near Jefferson, New Hampshire offers challenging but rewarding experiences in the White Mountain National Forest. Many sites rest at elevations between 2,000-4,000 feet, requiring significant hiking on steep, rugged terrain. Most camping areas experience temperature drops of 15-20 degrees compared to valley locations, with potential for unexpected weather patterns even in summer months.

What to do

Hiking to mountain peaks: From Guyot Shelter, campers can tackle several nearby summits. "We got to the site, claimed our platform and hiked over to West Bond to catch a beautiful sunset," notes reviewer Hollie G. The shelter sits at 4,360 ft elevation, making it an excellent base for exploring the surrounding Presidential Range.

Watching wildlife: Cherry Mountain Road Dispersed camping provides excellent opportunities for quiet nature observation. One camper reported, "The camp site are all disbursed enough that we did not hear any other camping sounds at all. We were able to collect sunlight onto our solar panel from the site."

Exploring waterways: For paddlers wanting riverside camping near Jefferson, the Connecticut River provides accessible options. At Maine Railroad Trestle, "There are several sites available here and a really nice rocky beach with easy access for loading and unloading. It's also a nice spot to fish from."

What campers like

Solitude and quiet: Many tent campers near Jefferson value the privacy. At Cherry Mountain Road, Kevin C. found that "We did not hear any other camping sounds at all. It was so quiet I could hear the sound of crow wings flapping as they flew by."

Well-maintained facilities: Despite being remote, The Bluff-Great Gulf Wilderness provides essential amenities. "The campsite has a map that outlines the kitchen/cooking area and sites... There's a water source just downhill with a nice spot to sit and relax," writes Sarah C.

Strategic locations: Many sites serve as perfect staging areas for longer hikes. At Nauman Tentsite, one camper noted it's "1.6 from mount Jackson summit, so great base camp location. Site has composting toilet for bathroom, very clean!" The site sits just below Mt. Pierce and requires a 3-mile hike to access.

What you should know

Bear safety measures: Most backcountry sites have food storage systems. At Ethan Pond Shelter, "There is a kitchen area with a bear box and a privy (not maintained in the off season so a little out of control in early May) tended to by a seasonal AMC caretaker."

Water availability varies: Come prepared to treat water from natural sources. One camper at Guyot Shelter mentioned "Cold spring water located at the site," while others note seasonal variations in water sources.

Winter camping challenges: Snow can remain well into spring at higher elevations. Ryan M. reported at Ethan Pond Shelter: "It was late March with over 4' of snow still on the ground. Not sure if tent platforms still available. Shelter is in decent shape."

Tips for camping with families

Choose appropriate distances: Some backcountry sites near Jefferson are more family-friendly than others. One reviewer mentioned Nauman Tentsite is "an easy 3 mile hike for an adult, I did it with my 5 year old in tow."

Pack for temperature swings: Mountain weather can change rapidly. Families should bring layers and rain gear regardless of forecast.

Look for educational opportunities: Many campsites have caretakers during peak season who can provide information about the area. At Valley Way Tentsite, "The caretaker is friendly and knowledgeable; there is potable water in summer, and there are FLUSHING toilets."

Tips from RVers

Limit vehicle size: Most dispersed camping areas near Jefferson cannot accommodate large RVs. At Cherry Mountain Road, Justin P. observed: "There are a string of tent sites on either side of the road with some right up to the intersection with Cherry Mountain trail. A few were small and could just fit a tent and a car, where some offered more space."

Consider tent-only options: Most backcountry camping near Jefferson is tent-only due to difficult access. For car-accessible tent camping, dispersed sites along Cherry Mountain Road offer small clearings for vehicles and tents.

Plan for self-sufficiency: No hookups or services exist at any dispersed sites. "There are no facilities here, and most sites showed some significant signs of use," notes one camper about Cherry Mountain Road.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best tent camping locations in Jefferson, NH?

Jefferson offers excellent access to White Mountain National Forest camping. Valley Way Tentsite provides a challenging but rewarding backcountry experience with six level tent pads, though you'll gain 2,800 feet in elevation over 3+ miles to reach it. For those seeking a more accessible option, Fourth Iron Campground is a year-round site situated along a river with great swimming opportunities when weather permits. It's a short walk from the road with designated campsites for $15/night. Cherry Mountain Road also offers free dispersed camping options for those looking for a more primitive experience.

Are reservations required for tent camping in Jefferson, NH?

Reservation requirements vary by campground near Jefferson. Private campgrounds like Squam Lakes Association and Northern Waters Base Camp typically require advance reservations, especially during peak summer season. For backcountry sites in White Mountain National Forest, including Imp Shelter and Rogers Ledge, reservations are generally not required, but they operate on a first-come, first-served basis with limited capacity. Always check specific campground policies in advance, as some sites may implement reservation systems during peak seasons or have special requirements.

What amenities are available at tent campgrounds near Jefferson, NH?

Tent campgrounds near Jefferson offer varying amenities. Baker Rocks provides excellent facilities with tent platforms, new picnic tables, and fire rings. Paugus Brook Farm offers fairly level tent camping grounds in a field setting. Most backcountry sites in the region provide basic necessities - Garfield Ridge Campsite features pumpable water, outhouses, designated cooking areas, and bear boxes. Frontcountry campgrounds typically include fire rings, picnic tables, and access to restroom facilities, though amenities like electricity and showers vary by location.

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