Tent campsites near Melvin Village, New Hampshire range from waterfront locations along Squam Lake to mountain backcountry spots in the White Mountains. The region sits at approximately 500-1,200 feet elevation with terrain that varies from flat lakeshores to steep mountain slopes. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing from November to April, requiring specialized equipment for cold-weather camping.
What to do
River wading and swimming: At Fourth Iron Campground, campers enjoy direct access to the Saco River with multiple rocky beaches between sites. "The water is clear and cold, refreshing on a warm day," notes Sarah C., who visited the riverside tent camping area.
Winter camping adventures: Many tent sites remain open year-round for adventurous campers. "Fourth Iron used to be a pay campsite run by the state of New Hampshire... We typically go at least once in the summer and once in the dead of winter," explains Daniel S., highlighting the option for cold-weather tent camping.
Ice fishing opportunities: During winter months, frozen ponds provide activities for cold-weather campers. Jean C. from Sawyer Pond explains, "This is open year round and each season offers something different. It's a nice snowshoe hike in winter. I've ice-fished on the pond."
What campers like
Tent platforms for dry camping: Sawyer Pond offers improved tent sites with wooden platforms. "Sites have platforms large enough to accommodate two free standing 2-4 person tents, depending on size and style," explains Sarah C., noting this practical feature that keeps tents dry and reduces ground impact.
Family-friendly hiking access: Many campsites connect directly to hiking trails. "Sawyer Pond was my introduction to backpacking more than 40 years ago... Either approach, but particularly the one from Sawyer River Rd, is family friendly," notes Jean C., highlighting accessibility.
Night sky viewing: Remote camping areas provide excellent stargazing opportunities. Erin H. reports from Sawyer Pond: "The pond is gorgeous and the stars were AMAZING. You do have to forage for firewood, which can be rough, but there's a fire pit right in front of the lean to. I've never seen stars like I did here."
What you should know
Proper food storage requirements: Bear activity requires appropriate precautions. At Sawyer Pond, "There is one bear hang located just in front of sites 3 and 4 that is large enough to accommodate food from multiple groups. You will need rope to hang your food, however a cable is provided," advises Sarah C.
Water filtration needs: Most primitive tent sites lack potable water. When staying at Squam Lakes Association campsites, come prepared as there is "no picnic table or drinking water. Come prepared with your own water...or a filter," recommends Shari G.
Limited firewood availability: Hunter P. warns about Sawyer Pond: "There was very little available firewood near the campsites," suggesting campers should gather wood farther from camp or bring their own where permitted.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly backpacking: Paugus Brook Farm offers relatively easy access for families new to camping. "The camping area is a field in the back with fairly level ground and lots of space, and is a very short walk from the designated parking area," notes Justin P.
Camp Penacook shelter options: Families can choose between tent sites or the three-sided shelter. "This is a 3-sided shelter with a fairly low roof. You could fit one larger tent or two smaller tents, but I highly suggest sleeping in the open air!" recommends Maddie R. from Camp Penacook Shelter.
Water access considerations: When camping with children, consider proximity to water sources. Hunter P. explains about Sawyer Pond: "The lake is just steps away from the camping sites and is absolutely beautiful," making water collection and recreation convenient for families.
Tips from RVers
Alternative sites for vehicle access: While many tent sites require hiking in, some campgrounds offer drive-up alternatives. "The location is a great place to either explore the immediate area (Mount Chocorua and Chocorua Lake) or head further north to Conway and North Conway)," notes Justin P. about Paugus Brook Farm.
Arrival timing strategy: For popular sites without reservations, plan accordingly. "Due to the site's popularity, plan accordingly. Have a back-up plan for an alternate camping location... We witnessed several parties, many with young children, arriving late to find that all the sites were occupied," cautions Sarah C. about Sawyer Pond.
