Tent camping options near North Walpole, New Hampshire include backcountry sites requiring 3-4 mile hikes and established campgrounds with designated facilities. The Connecticut River Valley region sits at elevations ranging from 200-2000 feet with a humid continental climate that brings warm summers and cold winters. Spring camping often encounters muddy conditions on trails, particularly during April and early May when snow melt combines with seasonal rain.
What to do
Paddle at Tully Lake: Access the water via kayak or canoe rentals available directly at Tully Lake Recreation Area. "We took our canoe and spend the whole day at the lake. You can find lots of private areas to swim, pick blueberries and relax," notes camper Ben P. The lake features multiple islands to explore.
Winter backpacking: For experienced winter campers, Stratton Pond Shelter offers cold-weather adventure opportunities. "Spent the weekend here on the last weekend of Feb. 2024. Cold, Snow, Wind, full moon in the middle of the woods with only the people I hiked in with. It was great! The shelter is a 3.75mi hike from the nearest parking lot in winter," reports Miccal M.
Explore waterfalls: Visit Doane's Falls near Tully Lake campground. "If you'd like to hike with children, there is an easy hike close to the entrance, along Doane's Falls, a series of 5 waterfalls along an ascending path through a wooded area," describes Nancy R. This short trail takes approximately 30-45 minutes to complete at a leisurely pace.
What campers like
Car-free camping environments: Many tent sites in the region prohibit vehicles at campsites. "No cars at all at the campsites, which was great for peace of mind as our toddler roamed around. It also made for a super quiet stay," shares Megan G. about her experience at Tully Lake Recreation Area.
Island camping: Some locations offer unique island tent sites. "I stayed on the island site, which was absolutely amazing. The views are to die for, and it's really meant for people who want to be outdoors in the woods," reports Kris M. The isolation provides greater privacy and quiet compared to mainland sites.
Waterfront proximity: Campsites near water allow for immediate recreation access. "The lake looks great and is one of the largest bodies of water on the Long Trail," notes a camper about Stratton Pond. At Barton Cove Campground, "sites have tent platforms, grill, fire pit and picnic tables. Porta potties and latrines were very clean."
What you should know
Advance planning required: Popular tent sites book quickly. "The sites fill up weeks out (and can completely fill the day registration opens, which is date-dependent each year...Booking for Memorial Day meant I booked in April), so you have to be on your game," advises Kris M.
Limited cell service: Connectivity is restricted in many camping areas. "Cell coverage is pretty close to absent or poor in most of the area, so download any maps you might want (driving, trail, geocaching) before you arrive," recommends Jean C.
Water source variability: Backcountry sites may have unreliable water access. At Winturri Backcountry Shelter, "Water was running when I was there in mid-August from a spring close to the shelter," reports Justin P., but notes that consistent water isn't guaranteed.
Tips for camping with families
Consider distance from facilities: When tent camping with young children, bathroom proximity matters. "Our site was fairly far from services, long run with small kids in the middle of the night," notes Lauren A. about her Tully Lake experience.
Pack-in requirements: Families should prepare for cart transport. "Some of the sites do not have waterfront access, however, and you'll definitely want to take advantage of the carts provided. Campsites are very basic, with only a picnic table and fire ring," explains Jean C.
Group-friendly sites: Maple Ridge Farm offers accommodating spaces. "Very lush campground, plenty of space and privacy between sites. They'll drive you in an ATV up to some of the sites that are further away from the parking lot," shares Les R.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Tent camping dominates North Walpole accommodation types, with few developed RV sites. Most campgrounds mentioned provide tent-only accommodations with limitations for larger vehicles.
Consider nearby alternatives: Zoar Outdoor offers developed camping with amenities. "Amenities are well maintained. Could use a refresh but overall great experience," says Dominick V. No electric hookups available, but drinking water, showers, and toilets provided.
Site restrictions: RV camping options near North Walpole typically come with limitations. "It seemed like there were a lot of restrictive rules compared to other campgrounds that made camping more stressful," notes Jade B. about regulations at Barton Cove.
