Tent camping near Meredith, New Hampshire offers primitive and established options within the White Mountain National Forest. The region sits at elevations ranging from 500 to 3,000+ feet, creating diverse camping microclimates. Winter camping is possible at certain backcountry sites like Sawyer Pond, though access roads may close during mud season, typically from late March through mid-May.
What to do
Hiking to mountain views: Camp Penacook Shelter serves as a base for climbing Mount Chocorua. "The mile and a half to the summit is scrambles up some slick rock, which can still be icy in spots in the spring. It was very helpful that I removed my pack to do this! The views from the summit are breathtaking," notes Maddie R.
Rock climbing: The Rumney area attracts climbers from across the region. "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 AAC Rattlesnake Campground.
Ice fishing: Winter camping opens up seasonal activities. "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," shares Jean C. about Sawyer Pond.
What campers like
Fire-side relaxation: Simple pleasures rank high with campers. "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," Justin P. writes about Baker Rocks.
Stargazing: Clear mountain skies provide stellar viewing opportunities. "I camped here last year and stayed at the lean to with my dog. The pond is gorgeous and the stars were AMAZING. I've never seen stars like I did here, all around the pond. They took my breath away!" says Erin H.
Water access: Squam Lakes Association sites offer prime spots for water activities. "We really enjoyed our stay here - we prefer tent camping and like to be secluded; we are not into RV parks. This was fantastic. Beautiful trails, excellent kayaking, quiet and serene," reports Jen S.
What you should know
Site availability: Popular backcountry sites fill quickly. "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," warns Sarah C. about Rogers Ledge.
Water sources: Water access varies significantly. "There is a nice water source .1 miles from the campsite has an easily accessible flow. So no need to hike in with a ton of water," notes Sarah C. about Rogers Ledge. At Camp Penacook, "Back towards the main piper trail is a brook where you can pump water if you have a filter."
Firewood limitations: Gathering firewood can be challenging. "You do have to forage for firewood, which can be rough," notes Erin H. about Sawyer Pond. Another camper adds, "there was very little available firewood near the campsites."
Tips for camping with families
Choose shorter hiking trails: Sawyer Pond offers family-friendly backpacking. "This is a great beginner backpacking trip, great even for kids! The site has one shelter and 6 campsites available on the bank of Sawyer Pond," recommends Sarah C.
Arrive early for popular sites: Planning ahead is essential with children. "The hike from the parking lot to the campsite was 1.5 miles and pretty easy. It is mostly flat with a few minor hills (I saw children and elderly folks easily using this trail)," notes Hunter P. about Sawyer Pond.
Consider glamping options: For families wanting more comfort, some campgrounds offer alternatives. "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 both were spacious and wonderful," shares April W.
Tips from RVers
Look beyond RV parks: The Meredith area primarily caters to tent camping and small trailers. Most campgrounds near Meredith have limited RV facilities. "We prefer tent camping and like to be secluded; we are not into RV parks," comments Jen S. about the camping experience at Squam Lakes Association.
Research permanent sites: Some campgrounds near Meredith are primarily seasonal communities. "We passed many campers that had been on this property permanently, several of which had porches attached or additional rooms built on the side... It felt like an established community of people that reside on a permanent or semi-permanent basis," Kirsten J. observes about Viewland Campground.
Check road conditions: Access can be challenging for larger vehicles. "The road to get to Viewland Campground is very steep. The campground loop is a one-way loop that is not easily marked. The road was very narrow," warns Kirsten J.
