Best Tent Camping near Madison, NH

The White Mountains region surrounding Madison, New Hampshire offers numerous tent camping opportunities ranging from established campgrounds to remote backcountry sites. Sawyer Pond provides free, hike-in tent camping with access to mountain views and water sources, while Fourth Iron Campground offers riverside tent sites with basic amenities. Several Appalachian Trail shelters and designated backcountry tent sites can be found within hiking distance, including Camp Penacook Shelter and Ethan Pond Shelter.

Most backcountry tent sites in the area require significant hiking to access, with trails ranging from 1.5 to 5 miles depending on the location. Many sites feature tent platforms or cribbing to minimize environmental impact on fragile mountain soils. Bear boxes are commonly provided at established backcountry tent sites, though some areas require campers to bring rope for hanging food. Composting toilets are available at larger sites, while smaller areas may have no facilities. Water sources are typically available but require filtering or treatment. Fire regulations vary by location, with some sites prohibiting fires entirely, particularly at higher elevations.

The terrain throughout the region offers exceptional experiences for tent campers seeking solitude. Sites near water sources like Sawyer Pond and Fourth Iron Campground along the Saco River provide opportunities for swimming during warmer months. Higher elevation tent sites offer cooler temperatures and mountain views. Many areas serve as ideal basecamps for day hikes or sections of longer trails including the Appalachian Trail and Pemi Loop. Seasonal considerations are important when planning, as one visitor noted: "Sites have platforms large enough to accommodate two free standing 2-4 person tents, depending on size and style. Each site also has a fire ring and there is plenty of dead and downed wood to have a nice campfire without cutting down standing trees."

Best Tent Sites Near Madison, New Hampshire (48)

    1. Sawyer Pond

    7 Reviews
    Bartlett, NH
    16 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."

    2. Paugus Brook Farm

    1 Review
    Wonalancet, NH
    7 miles
    +1 (603) 852-2318

    $25 - $45 / night

    "I stayed here tent camping on the way to some fishing on the Saco River."

    3. Camp Penacook Shelter

    1 Review
    Albany, NH
    7 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!"

    4. Fourth Iron Campground

    6 Reviews
    Bartlett, NH
    17 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."

    5. Northern Nursery Brookside Campsites

    2 Reviews
    Bartlett, NH
    14 miles
    Website

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

    6. Swans Falls Campground

    2 Reviews
    Fryeburg, ME
    13 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."

    7. Saco Bound

    1 Review
    Fryeburg, ME
    15 miles
    Website

    $25 - $50 / night

    8. Guyot Shelter - Dispersed Camping

    9 Reviews
    Deerfield, NH
    26 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. Rogers Ledge

    1 Review
    Waterville Valley, NH
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 536-6100

    "You can access this tensite from a number of trail heads in northern New Hampshire (Milbrook Trail, Unknown Pond, etc.) for a 3.5 to 5 mile hike in depending on the direction you come."

    10. Ethan Pond Shelter

    4 Reviews
    Bretton Woods, NH
    24 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"

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Showing results 1-10 of 48 campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Madison, NH

1288 Reviews of 48 Madison Campgrounds



Guide to Madison

Tent camping near Madison, New Hampshire offers a variety of scenic spots perfect for outdoor enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in nature. With options ranging from serene ponds to riverside retreats, there's something for everyone.

Tent campers appreciate these amenities

  • At Sawyer Pond, campers can enjoy tent platforms, fire rings, and access to a small stream for water, making it a convenient choice for families and beginners.
  • Fourth Iron Campground features well-maintained sites along the Sacco River, complete with picnic tables and a clean composting toilet, ensuring a comfortable stay.
  • The Ethan Pond Shelter offers a rustic experience with drinking water available and a privy, perfect for those seeking a backcountry adventure.

Tips for tent camping near Madison

  • Arrive early at Sawyer Pond to secure a spot, as it’s a popular destination that can fill up quickly, especially on weekends.
  • Be prepared to carry in your supplies at Fourth Iron Campground, as it’s a short hike from the parking area, which helps maintain its peaceful atmosphere.
  • When visiting Ethan Pond Shelter, remember to treat your water before drinking, as it’s essential for staying hydrated during your hike.

Some prices for tent camping range from $0 to $15

  • Camping at Sawyer Pond is free, making it an excellent option for budget-conscious campers looking for a beautiful setting.
  • Fourth Iron Campground charges around $15 per night, providing a great value for its riverside location and amenities.
  • The Ethan Pond Shelter is free to use, but donations are appreciated to help maintain the site, making it a cost-effective choice for hikers.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Madison, NH is Sawyer Pond with a 4.9-star rating from 7 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 48 tent camping locations near Madison, NH, with real photos and reviews from campers.