Tent camping near New London, New Hampshire provides overnight options ranging from primitive backcountry sites to glamping experiences. The area sits at elevations between 1,000-2,000 feet within the Dartmouth-Lake Sunapee region, characterized by rolling hills, dense forests, and numerous ponds and small lakes. Summer daytime temperatures typically average 75-85°F, but nights can dip into the 50s even during peak season.
What to do
Hiking Mount Cardigan: Access this popular 3,155-foot summit from Cardigan Campsites, which serves as a convenient basecamp. "Great spot to spend the night before a climb of Mt. Cardigan! Or after! The climb is challenging but shouldn't take too long. Great fire tower views at the top too!" notes Madison G.
Fishing Baker River: Cast for smallmouth bass and trout at Baker Rocks campground, which offers river access points. "Around the campground there was a little beach along the Baker river. I only caught a few minnows when fishing but that may have been more to do with the angler," reports Justin P.
Rock climbing at Rumney: Expert and novice climbers visit AAC Rattlesnake Campground, established specifically for the climbing community. "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.
What campers like
Private woodland tent sites: Campers appreciate the secluded tent platforms at Baker Rocks. "The tent sites are within the wooded area around the property and felt very secluded. There was a bit of road noise overnight," explains one camper who also mentioned that sites include "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."
Shelter views along AT: Hikers enjoy the amenities at Moose Mountain Backcountry Shelter. "The shelter did stand out with a bench overlooking a clearing in the brush with a view which was a great place to enjoy my freeze dried dinner," notes Justin P., who also appreciated that "the privvy was also new and very spacious."
Glamping options: Campers seeking comfort can try non-traditional accommodations. "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, among tall trees and pines," shares April W.
What you should know
Seasonal water availability: Water sources at backcountry sites may be unreliable. At Velvet Rocks Shelter, "The water source here was dry during my trip which was expected during the drought (August 2022)," reports Justin P. Backcountry campers should carry sufficient water or verify source conditions.
Tent site limitations: Some AT shelters offer limited flat ground for tent camping. At Trapper John Backcountry Campground, "There were a few spots for tenting but not a lot," according to one hiker who noted the shelter itself "was a standard 3-sided wooden shelter, and was on the medium side with plenty of space for maybe 6-8 folks."
Bug protection requirements: Insects can be problematic in wooded areas. "Do bring bug spray, the mosquitoes at certain times of day were aggressive, as to be expected," advises a camper who stayed at Baker Rocks.
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Some campgrounds offer animal encounters. At Baker Rocks, "They even have animals to visit like bunnies and goats (far away from the campsites)," mentions April W., making it a good option for children interested in animals.
Alternative accommodation for rain: Consider booking tents or yurts during unpredictable weather. "Our family of 4 visited Baker Rocks during a very rainy week and still had an amazing time. The campsites are private and spacious, the property is large and beautiful, close to the river," reports April W.
Campground amenities: Look for sites with full facilities. At Baker Rocks, "The facilities here were great. There is a full bathhouse with individual rooms for showers and sink/toilets, with running water," notes one camper who also mentioned the property includes "a little beach along the Baker river."
Tips from RVers
Staff hospitality: Many campgrounds offer flexible check-in. At Lost Boys Hideout, "Check-in was super easy with the camp hosts who were very flexible with timing and wanted to make sure I had a great stay," according to a camper who also noted "The property and individual sites are deliberately designed with guests in mind."
Site improvements: Facilities are regularly updated. "Nice new tents provided at Sleepy Hollow site. Improvements to the firepit, area all mulched, even some games and water are provided!" notes Steve K. about Lost Boys Hideout, indicating the campground actively enhances its offerings.
Limited RV access: Most tent camping options near New London have minimal or no RV infrastructure. Almost all sites listed focus primarily on tent camping, primitive shelters, or glamping accommodations, with minimal electrical hookups or designated RV pads.
