Tent camping near Lebanon, New Hampshire centers primarily on the backcountry shelters along the Appalachian Trail corridor. Seasonal water sources present challenges for hikers, especially during dry periods from July through September. Many sites require bear-resistant food storage containers or proper hanging techniques due to local black bear populations active throughout the White Mountains region.
What to do
Tackle summit hikes: Cardigan Campsites provides an ideal base for climbing Mount Cardigan, featuring a fire tower with panoramic views. "The climb is challenging but shouldn't take too long. Great fire tower views at the top too!" notes Madison G., who camped before her ascent.
Fish local rivers: Baker Rocks offers access to the Baker River for anglers seeking smallmouth bass and trout. "Around the campground there was a little beach along the Baker river. I only caught a few minnows when fishing but that may have been more to do with the angler," reports Justin P., who appreciated the riverside chairs for scenery viewing.
Experience AT section hiking: Happy Hill Backcountry Shelter serves as a strategic overnight point for section hikers. "This was a great place to stop along the Appalachian Trail but I would not consider it a destination shelter," notes Justin P., highlighting its utility for through-hikers rather than weekend campers.
What campers like
Multi-level shelter designs: Thistle Hill Backcountry Shelter offers a traditional AT shelter setup with specific advantages. "The shelter was a one-story standard AT shelter with a fire ring and a bench for seating," reports Justin P., who found it peaceful despite lacking scenic views.
Privacy between tent sites: Winturri Backcountry Shelter stands out for its tent camping layout. "There were lots of tent camping spots as you worked up the hill perpendicular to the shelter... this stop had a great amount of tent camping around in spaces with decent privacy," notes Justin P., who appreciated the well-spaced tent platforms.
Modern facilities: Baker Rocks impresses tent campers with its amenities. "The facilities here were great. There is a full bathhouse with individual rooms for showers and sink/toilets, with running water," reports Justin P., who found the developed campground exceeded expectations with solar lighting and complimentary firewood.
What you should know
Water availability varies: Many backcountry sites experience unreliable water sources during summer months. "The water source here was dry during my trip which was expected during the drought (August 2022)," reports Justin P. about Velvet Rocks Shelter, confirming the need to carry additional water.
Tent site quality differs: AT shelters offer varying quality of tent pads. "The tent camping here was ok, with some slightly slanted spots around the main shelter area," notes Justin P. about Velvet Rocks, while Thistle Hill had "smaller spots for tent camping that were somewhat sloped."
Seasonal considerations: Spring brings mud season limitations, while summer offers more reliable trail conditions but increased bugs. "Do bring bug spray, the mosquitoes at certain times of day were aggressive, as to be expected," advises April W. about Baker Rocks, despite staying during a rainy period.
Tips for camping with families
Glamping options: Baker Rocks provides alternatives for families seeking comfort beyond tent camping. "Our family of 4 visited Baker Rocks during a very rainy week and still had an amazing time... We stayed 2 nights in the double bell tent with two clean full size beds and a 3rd night in the yurt," reports April W., who plans to return.
Animal encounters: Some campgrounds offer supervised interactions with farm animals. "They even have animals to visit like bunnies and goats (far away from the campsites)," notes April W. about Baker Rocks, providing entertainment options for children during wet weather.
Consider shelter capacity: Backcountry shelters have limited space for larger groups. "The shelter is on the larger side and could fit maybe 6-8 folks," notes Justin P. about Trapper John Backcountry Campground, which offers additional tent sites for overflow.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most tent camping sites near Lebanon don't accommodate recreational vehicles. Trapper John and other AT shelters are "entirely hike in" according to Justin P., making them inaccessible to RVs.
Consider tent platforms: For RVers willing to park elsewhere and tent camp, Baker Rocks offers prepared surfaces. "The site had a large tent platform they could fit multiple tents, a brand new picnic table, a fire ring (with a free bundle of firewood), two chairs by the fire ring," notes Justin P., highlighting amenities that ease the transition from RV to tent camping.
Staff assistance: Campground hosts can help with special arrangements. "Check-in was super easy with the camp hosts who were very flexible with timing and wanted to make sure I had a great stay," reports Justin P. about Baker Rocks, suggesting the value of contacting staff about accessibility concerns.
