The Appalachian Trail provides the primary tent camping options near Lyme, New Hampshire, with sites positioned between 700-1,500 feet elevation throughout the densely forested terrain. Most camping areas require significant hiking to reach, typically 1-5 miles from trailheads. The White Mountain region experiences significant temperature variations, often dropping 20-30 degrees overnight even in summer months.
What to do
Climb Mt. Cardigan: From Cardigan Campsites, campers can access this moderate summit hike leading to panoramic views. "Great spot to spend the night before a climb of Mt. Cardigan! The climb is challenging but shouldn't take too long. Great fire tower views at the top too!" reports Madison G.
River access: Baker Rocks offers direct access to Baker River for fishing and relaxing. "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. Along another bend of the river were two chairs for taking in the scenery," notes Justin P.
Rock climbing: The Rumney area provides technical rock climbing opportunities near tent camping. "I started climbing at Rumney about a decade before this campground was developed, and man, were we overdue for one! Maintained by the American Alpine Club, pretty much all the campers here are rock climbers," explains Les R. about the local climbing scene.
What campers like
Double-decker shelters: Tent campers appreciate the unique shelter designs at Happy Hill Backcountry Shelter which offer layout options. "The shelter had a ground floor and a loft but each floor could maybe fit 4-5 people comfortably... The loft was nice since folks could decide to sleep up there while others were down below, either cooking, arriving, or departing," notes Justin P.
Bench views: Some AT shelters feature seating areas with strategic views. "The shelter did stand out with a bench overlooking a clearing in the brush with a view which was a great place to enjoy my freeze dried dinner," explains one camper about Moose Mountain Backcountry Shelter.
Recently updated facilities: Multiple shelters feature newly constructed amenities. "The privvy was relatively new and in great shape," notes a Happy Hill Backcountry camper, while another mentioned that Moose Mountain's "privvy was also new and very spacious."
What you should know
Water availability varies: Water sources are highly unreliable, especially from July-September. "I tent camped here during a section hike of the AT... There was water during my stay, though it was right after a smaller storm the previous evening," reports a camper at Thistle Hill Backcountry Shelter.
Tent site terrain: While platforms exist at some locations, many tent sites require careful placement. "The tent camping here was ok, with some slightly slanted spots around the main shelter area," notes a camper at Velvet Rocks Shelter.
Bear boxes not universal: Some sites lack secure food storage. "There was no bear box onsite," reports a Velvet Rocks camper, indicating hikers should come prepared with proper food storage methods.
No fires allowed: Most AT shelters prohibit open fires, requiring campers to use camp stoves for cooking.
Tips for camping with families
Consider glamping alternatives: For families seeking less primitive options, Baker Rocks offers structured accommodations. "The campsites are private and spacious, the property is large and beautiful, close to the river. We stayed 2 nights in the double bell tent with two clean full size beds and a 3rd night in the yurt both were spacious and wonderful, among tall trees and pines," reports April W.
Tent platform options: Families will find tent platforms easier for setting up camp with children. "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, and even a few strings of solar lights around the camp area," notes a Baker Rocks camper.
Bug preparation essential: Pack appropriate insect protection for children. "Do bring bug spray, the mosquitoes at certain times of day were aggressive, as to be expected," advises a family camper from Baker Rocks.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: The Lyme area primarily serves tent campers and hikers, with few dedicated RV facilities. Most campgrounds restrict vehicle access entirely, requiring hiking to reach tent sites.
Consider nearby alternatives: RVers should look toward nearby towns like Rumney or Alexandria for more suitable camping options with vehicle access and hookups.
