Best Dispersed Camping near New Durham, NH
Dispersed camping options near New Durham, New Hampshire include Tripoli Road and Elbow Pond Road Dispersed Site. Tripoli Road operates seasonally, typically opening in late May and closing in autumn. This primitive camping area requires campers to stay at established sites with fire rings. Registration is mandatory at the ranger station on the western end of the road, with fees charged per vehicle on a weekday or weekend basis. The sites vary considerably in size and location, with some situated near rivers and others nestled in wooded areas.
Bear activity is a significant concern in the Tripoli Road area. The camping area was temporarily closed in July 2019 after bears visited campsites and accessed improperly stored food. All food must be secured in vehicles or bear canisters. Several campers have reported seeing evidence of bears, particularly during busy periods. According to one visitor, "You need to be aware that bears are in the area."
Elbow Pond Road Dispersed Site offers free camping with more rustic conditions. The access road is notably rough and not suitable for sedans or low-clearance vehicles. As one camper noted, "The road in is pretty rough and is not recommended for sedans or lower riding cars." Sites vary in size and proximity to one another, with some offering more privacy than others. Fire pits are available at some but not all sites. The area features a pond with fishing opportunities.
Both locations operate on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservations accepted. Tripoli Road provides portable toilets near the western entrance, while Elbow Pond has no toilet facilities. Neither location offers drinking water, showers, or electrical hookups. Weekdays typically see lower occupancy rates than weekends, especially during summer months and holidays.
