Best Tent Camping near North Sandwich, NH
The White Mountains region surrounding North Sandwich, New Hampshire offers tent campers numerous backcountry options ranging from hike-in wilderness sites to walk-in tent platforms. Established tent campgrounds include Sawyer Pond, which requires a 1.5-mile hike from Highway 302, and Fourth Iron Campground along the Saco River, accessible via a short quarter-mile walk from the parking area. Paugus Brook Farm provides tent camping in a field setting with brand new outhouse facilities and level ground for pitching tents, while designated backcountry sites like Guyot Shelter offer more remote tent camping experiences within the White Mountain National Forest.
Most tent sites around North Sandwich feature basic amenities with varying levels of facilities. Campers should be prepared to filter or treat water at most locations, as drinking water is rarely provided at primitive sites. Fire regulations differ between locations—fires are permitted at Fourth Iron and Sawyer Pond within established rings, while they're prohibited at Paugus Brook Farm due to local fire restrictions. Composting or vault toilets are available at most established sites, though toilet paper isn't always provided. Many backcountry tent sites include bear boxes or designated food hanging areas, particularly important in this bear-active region. A visitor commented, "Bear boxes are provided at Fourth Iron as this is bear country, so be prepared to properly store food."
Tent platforms at several sites provide level sleeping surfaces separated from wet ground, particularly valuable during New Hampshire's frequent rain. The camping experience varies significantly by season, with summer bringing more crowded conditions at accessible sites. A camper wrote that Sawyer Pond's popularity means "several parties, many with young children, arriving late to find all sites occupied." Many backcountry tent sites offer excellent access to hiking trails, including connections to the Appalachian Trail at Guyot Shelter. Winter camping is possible at locations like Fourth Iron, though specialized gear and experience are necessary. Sites along rivers like Fourth Iron provide swimming opportunities with "clear and cold, refreshing water" according to reviews. Most walk-in tent sites provide greater separation from neighboring campers than typical drive-in campgrounds, enhancing the wilderness experience.
