The White Mountain National Forest surrounds North Sandwich, New Hampshire with multiple primitive camping options situated at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 4,360 feet. The region experiences typical New England seasonal variations, with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F during peak camping months (June-September). Roads accessing these remote camping areas typically remain snow-covered until late spring, with most sites becoming accessible by Memorial Day weekend.
What to do
Hike to mountain viewpoints: From Haystack Road primitive sites, access direct connections to mountain trails. "Right near a great swimming hole and the twin mountains. It is quiet, the sites are far apart," notes one camper. Another mentions it's "in a great location for hiking the northern white mountains."
Explore water activities: Fishing opportunities exist throughout the region's primitive camping areas. At Hogan Road Pulloff, campers appreciate the lakeside setting: "Right next to a serene view of the lake," reports one visitor. The site offers "plenty of trees to hang your hammock" with "enough space to put up to 3-5 tents."
Stargazing: Several dispersed camping sites provide excellent night sky viewing opportunities due to minimal light pollution. "We enjoyed a spectacular view of the Blood Super Moon from the campsite. Overall the site was open to the sky near the road yet protected from the wind," shares a Cherry Mountain Road camper.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Most primitive camping areas around North Sandwich provide separation between campsites. At White Mountains Camping on Little Larry Road, "It's easy to forget there are other people camping on other sites because they're so far apart. It's wonderfully relaxing and quiet," writes one visitor. Another adds there are "8 huge, beautiful campsites in the heavily wooded Evans Notch section."
Natural water features: Access to streams and rivers ranks highly among campers' preferences. "Great sites. Some right on water. First come first serve, can get busy," reports a camper about Town Hall Road Dispersed. Another notes, "We found our spot which had some river access and it was gorgeous."
Wilderness experience: The proximity to wildlife and remote forest settings attracts many visitors. "Highwater trail with bridge close by. Great stars. Creek runs through road near sites good for getting water to filter or washing," describes a Little Larry Road camper. The untouched natural setting provides opportunities to disconnect completely from urban environments.
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Vehicle requirements differ between sites. At Elbow Pond Road Dispersed Site, "The road in is pretty rough and is not recommended for sedans or lower riding cars," warns one camper. Another adds, "Drove in on a Wednesday afternoon and drove past 4 or 5 sites, which were all occupied."
Limited or no amenities: Prepare for self-sufficient camping. "The only downside was the lack of any other amenities. As far as dispersed camping in the national forest, this place is on a decent unpaved road and our campsite was only about 3 miles from the highway," explains a Cherry Mountain Road visitor.
Bear safety essential: Wildlife encounters require proper precautions. "Upper two top sites beware of bears especially the right side site. Game trail heaven," cautions a Little Larry Road camper.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with water features: Children enjoy natural water access. "We stayed two nights and at two different sites; enjoyed both," shares a Town Hall Road visitor. "We loved this spot. There were plenty of sites to choose from and most (not all) had access to the river as well as a fire ring."
Look for flat terrain: For easier tent setup with children, select level sites. "It was a great place for Rainy Camping. We went during a pouring rain storm and our site remained relatively dry," notes a Town Hall Road camper about their experience with challenging weather.
Arrive early: The best family-friendly sites fill quickly. "It's also first come first serve, so be sure to get up early on Friday for a weekend campout," advises a Tripoli Road camper. Another mentions, "Went on a Saturday afternoon after a long hike and there were plenty of spots open."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most dispersed sites accommodate only smaller rigs. "There were plenty of sites available on the weekend in October. A few were small and could just fit a tent and a car, where some offered more space," notes a camper at Cherry Mountain Road.
Leveling challenges: Bring leveling equipment. "We got lucky and snagged a perfect spot 2 miles in from the entrance sign - completely level (didn't even need our leveling blocks) and big enough for our 26ft class c," shares a Town Hall Road visitor who cautions, "I wouldn't recommend a giant 5th wheel or class A to come here looking for a spot."
Cell service considerations: Limited connectivity affects RV travelers differently. "Just enough t-mobile / starlink signal to watch streaming and message, but wouldn't be enough for remote work," reports a Little Larry Road camper who suggests an alternative: "We went to the White Mountain National Forest Picnic area off the main road about 5 minutes away and had great signal."
