Best Tent Camping near East Merrimack, NH
Walk-in tent camping sites can be found within a 30-mile radius of East Merrimack, New Hampshire, with several established campgrounds offering tent-only areas. Military Park New Boston Air Force Station Recreation Area, located in New Boston, provides year-round tent camping with reservable sites. Lost Boys Hideout offers hike-in and walk-in tent sites with basic amenities including drinking water, fire rings, and picnic tables. For those willing to travel slightly farther, Tully Lake Recreation Area in Royalston, Massachusetts provides dedicated tent campsites in a natural setting about 50 miles west of East Merrimack.
Most primitive tent campgrounds in the region feature dirt or gravel pads with minimal site preparation. At Lost Boys Hideout, campers should bring appropriate gear for walk-in sites, as vehicles remain in designated parking areas. Tully Lake operates as a "carry-in" campground where wooden wheelbarrows are provided to transport gear from the parking area to individual campsites. Fire regulations vary by location and season, with most sites providing fire rings but requiring campers to purchase firewood on-site to prevent the spread of invasive species. Cell service is typically limited at these backcountry tent sites, particularly at Tully Lake where coverage is described as "spotty to non-existent" for most providers.
Tent campers frequently report that sites farther from main access points offer greater privacy and a more authentic outdoor experience. According to reviews, Tully Lake's walk-in tent sites create "no noise or disturbances from cars," making it ideal for traditional tent camping. One camper noted that Site 1 at Tully Lake was "HUGE and extremely private," while sites closer to water offered different advantages. The absence of vehicles at campsites creates a notably quieter atmosphere, particularly valued by families with young children. During peak summer weekends, especially holidays, tent-only areas can become crowded, so midweek visits are recommended for those seeking solitude. The region's backcountry tent camping options typically include access to hiking trails, swimming areas, and fishing opportunities.