Best Tent Camping near Kearsarge, NH

White Mountain National Forest surrounds Kearsarge, New Hampshire with numerous tent-only camping options ranging from established sites to remote backcountry locations. Fourth Iron Campground offers walk-in tent sites situated along the Saco River, with eight designated campsites accessible via a short quarter-mile trail from the parking area. Sawyer Pond provides primitive tent camping with six established sites and one shelter, accessible by either a 1.5-mile hike from NH Highway 302 or a longer 4.5-mile trek from the Kancamagus Highway. Both locations feature composting toilets and established fire rings, making them popular destinations for tent campers seeking natural settings with basic amenities.

Most tent campsites in the region require visitors to bring or filter their own water, as potable sources are limited. Tent platforms are common at backcountry sites like Guyot Shelter and Ethan Pond, providing level surfaces on otherwise uneven terrain. Bear boxes are available at many locations, though some sites require campers to hang food using provided cables or their own rope. Composting toilets are standard at established sites, but backcountry campers should be prepared with trowels for waste disposal in undeveloped areas. Seasonal considerations are important, as many higher-elevation sites remain snow-covered until late spring, and some access roads close during winter months.

According to one camper at Fourth Iron Campground, "Despite its proximity to the road, the campground is quiet. Sites are situated just off the Saco River and river access is easy, with multiple rocky beaches between the sites and river." Another visitor noted that Sawyer Pond's popularity often leads to full occupancy: "Have a back-up plan for an alternate camping location. We witnessed several parties, many with young children, arriving late to find all sites occupied." Tent campers frequently use these locations as bases for day hikes, with many sites strategically positioned near trail networks. The region's backcountry tent camping options provide varying levels of solitude depending on proximity to popular trails and season of visit.

Best Tent Sites Near Kearsarge, New Hampshire (50)

    1. Fourth Iron Campground

    6 Reviews
    Bartlett, NH
    11 miles
    Website

    $15 / night

    "This year-round campground is a short walk from the road and situated along the river, providing nice swimming/wading when the weather is right."

    "The campsites, of which there are 8 of, are a short¼ mile walk from the parking area."

    2. Sawyer Pond

    7 Reviews
    Bartlett, NH
    13 miles
    Website

    "You can reach the backcountry campsites via a 1.5 mile walk from the Sawyer Pond Trail Head off of NH highway 302, or in 4.5 miles from the Sawyer Pond Trail Head off 112(the Kancamangus Highway)."

    "Sawyer Pond was my introduction to backpacking more than 40 years ago."

    3. Northern Nursery Brookside Campsites

    2 Reviews
    Bartlett, NH
    8 miles
    Website

    "There are 15 tent sites along the water, and a quick walk from the parking area."

    4. Swans Falls Campground

    2 Reviews
    Fryeburg, ME
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (207) 935-3395

    "Sites are wooded but not a ton of space/trees in between them. Some sites are right on top of the Fryeberg fairgrounds, was glad we didn’t have those."

    "It's in a nice, open pine forest and there is a beautiful walking trail by the Saco River. I biked in so no idea about other utilities."

    5. Camp Penacook Shelter

    1 Review
    Albany, NH
    11 miles
    Website

    "As you head up the Piper Trail, as you're nearing the 3 mile mark, it starts to get steep and mostly stone steps. Luckily, right as you begin to tire, the branch for the Spur Trail appears!"

    6. Blue Brook Tent Site

    2 Reviews
    Chatham, NH
    14 miles
    Website

    "The Wild River Wilderness is a relatively newly designated tract of land."

    7. 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"

    8. Guyot Shelter - Dispersed Camping

    9 Reviews
    Deerfield, NH
    22 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."

    9. Saco Bound

    1 Review
    Fryeburg, ME
    11 miles
    Website

    $25 - $50 / night

    10. Hermit Lake Shelters

    2 Reviews
    Bretton Woods, NH
    15 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. "

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Showing results 1-10 of 50 campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Kearsarge, NH

1138 Reviews of 50 Kearsarge Campgrounds



Guide to Kearsarge

Kearsarge, New Hampshire, offers a fantastic backdrop for tent camping enthusiasts, with a variety of well-reviewed sites nestled in the stunning natural landscape.

Tent campers appreciate these amenities

  • The Guyot Shelter - Dispersed Camping features essential amenities like drinking water, picnic tables, and toilets, making it a comfortable choice for campers.
  • At Sawyer Pond, you'll find tent platforms and fire rings, along with easy access to a beautiful pond for swimming and fishing.
  • The Fourth Iron Campground offers a secluded riverside experience with picnic tables and bear boxes for food storage, ensuring a safe and enjoyable stay.

Tips for tent camping near Kearsarge

  • Arrive early at Sawyer Pond to secure a spot, as it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends.
  • Be prepared for a hike at Guyot Shelter - Dispersed Camping, which requires a 15-20 minute trek from the main trail, so pack light and plan accordingly.
  • Always treat water from natural sources, like the stream at Nauman Tentsite, to ensure it's safe for drinking.

Tent campers should check out the scenic views

  • The Ethan Pond Shelter offers breathtaking sunset views over the pond, perfect for photography and relaxation.
  • For stunning mountain vistas, head to Rogers Ledge, where you can enjoy a short hike to the ledge for panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness.
  • The Wild River Wilderness Area provides a chance to immerse yourself in nature, with numerous trails leading to picturesque spots ideal for camping and exploration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Kearsarge, NH?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Kearsarge, NH is Fourth Iron Campground with a 4.8-star rating from 6 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Kearsarge, NH?

TheDyrt.com has all 50 tent camping locations near Kearsarge, NH, with real photos and reviews from campers.