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Best Dispersed Camping near Sanbornton, NH

23 Reviews

Dispersed camping near Sanbornton, New Hampshire centers primarily on White Mountain National Forest lands, with several primitive sites located within driving distance. Tripoli Road in Thornton offers roadside dispersed camping along a seasonal dirt road that connects Waterville Valley to Interstate 93. Elbow Pond Road Dispersed Site provides free primitive camping with no amenities. Guyot Shelter, accessible only by hiking, represents a more remote backcountry option with tent platforms and a shelter. These areas follow standard Forest Service dispersed camping regulations, requiring campers to use existing fire rings and practice Leave No Trace principles.

Road conditions vary significantly between sites. Tripoli Road is a seasonal dirt road that typically opens in late May and closes in autumn, with conditions suitable for most vehicles. Elbow Pond Road requires high-clearance vehicles, as the access route features rough terrain not recommended for sedans or low-clearance cars. Guyot Shelter is accessible only via hiking trails, requiring significant backcountry travel. Most sites lack amenities, though Tripoli Road has portable toilets near its western entrance. "The road in is pretty rough and is not recommended for sedans or lower riding cars," notes one visitor about Elbow Pond Road. Bear activity is a concern in these areas, particularly at Tripoli Road, which has previously closed due to bear encounters with improperly stored food.

The dispersed camping experience varies across these locations. Tripoli Road sites range from roadside spots to more secluded areas set back from the road, with some positioned along a river. "Great spot to start getting into camping with less amenities and more outdoors," explains one camper about Tripoli Road. Sites fill quickly on summer weekends, with weekdays offering better availability. Elbow Pond features both pull-up sites and walk-in areas around a small pond with fishing opportunities. Guyot Shelter, at 4,360 feet elevation, provides a true backcountry experience with wooden platforms, a three-sided shelter, bear boxes, and a water source. Cell service is limited throughout the region, and campers should be prepared for primitive conditions with no water or electrical hookups at most sites.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Sanbornton, New Hampshire (3)

    1. Tripoli Road

    11 Reviews
    North Woodstock, NH
    35 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 528-8721

    $20 - $30 / night

    "Easy access to trailhead for Tecumseh Mountain. Rustic sites with no water or electric."

    "No electricity, no showers. Portta potties every so often. Always close enough to walk to. Love the sites on the water. Have been going here for over 10 years. My kids now love it too"

    2. Guyot Shelter - Dispersed Camping

    9 Reviews
    Deerfield, NH
    46 miles
    Website

    $15 / night

    "Sufficient amount of platform, water source, bear proof Joe box, pivy and springs all at one spot"

    "Step walk in and out though most of the tent plat forms have amazing views. I have stayed here twice and had great experiences."

    3. Elbow Pond Road Dispersed Site

    3 Reviews
    North Woodstock, NH
    36 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 536-6100

    "They have a couple different spots where you can park and walk up to your site or they have sites you can pull right up next to them. Some of the camping spots have fire pits but not all."

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Sanbornton, NH

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Sanbornton, NH

23 Reviews of 3 Sanbornton Campgrounds

  • Jean C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 17, 2019

    Tripoli Road

    Dispersed camping, be bear aware!

    Tripoli Road is a seasonal road, opening in late May most years and closing in autumn. Check the White Mountain National Forest Facebook page for up to date road closures/status. The section before Russell Pond often opens before the rest of it, which is graded, not paved. The road runs between the Waterville Valley area and I-93 exit 31. This is roadside camping, no frills, first come, first served. You must stay at a site with a fire ring, but sites are not numbered. Road signs demarcate no camping zones; some areas look like they could be campsites, but will also be marked with no camping signs. 

    You must register at the ranger station on the western end of the road, shortly past the entrance to the Russell Pond campground. Rates are a flat rate set per car and per weekends or weekday period. In other words, you pay one rate for 1-5 weekdays ($20 in 2019) and another fee for a weekend($25-30 - holidays). It’s self service most of the time, with the ranger available Friday and Saturday evenings. 

    The sites vary from sites near and level with the road to ones set above or well below the road. Some are near a river, most are wooded. Some are isolated, others are close together. There are no reservations, so you'll be choosing your own when you arrive. Downhill sites closest to the Russell Pond area seem to be most popular. Most of these were occupied on a late June weekend, while those farther down the road remained empty.

    There are port-a-potties near the western entrance, but otherwise you’re on your own with cat holes or portable toilet solutions. Nearest showers are at Russell Pond. Please keep it clean and protect the area. I’ve passed through several times while hiking My Osceola and have observed that these sites are often filled with groups or families with multiple tents. On a late June weekend there are numerous empty sites, so they seem to be more available than the dispersed sites along Gale River Rd and Haystack Rd (farther north in Twin Mountain). Excessive drinking and noise can be an issue. 

    You need to be aware that bears are in the area. Following the July 4, 2019 holiday, the camping area was closed after bears visited campsites and got into food that was left in the open and not secured in vehicles or bear canisters. The camping area re-opened July 19, but check the White Mountain National Forest FB page before heading up there. If the issue recurs, I wouldn't be surprised if they close it again.

    Hiking in the region include the Osceolas (moderate hike with beautiful views, exceedingly popular and crowded on autumn weekends - get there early!), Tripyramid, and Tecumseh. Shorter treks include Welch-Dickey (great open ledges) and Snow's Mountain (along a river with falls). Nearby Russell Pond offers ranger programs, fishing, and you can put a kayak or canoe in. The Pemigewassett offers tubing and kayaking put ins. Outfitters one exit south can provide you with transportation and rentals. Exit 32 for Lincoln, Woodstock, and the Kanc is less than 5 miles north.

    Cell service is decent at nearby Russell Pond (Verizon seemed to offer better service than AT&T).

  • Raj T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 28, 2021

    Guyot Shelter - Dispersed Camping

    Gayut Tentsite

    Sufficient amount of platform, water source, bear proof Joe box, pivy and springs all at one spot

  • Beau B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 14, 2018

    Tripoli Road

    Tripoli Camp Grounds

    Easy access to trailhead for Tecumseh Mountain. Rustic sites with no water or electric. We found there to be a couple of large group camping areas but they were spread out enough not to bother each other. Port-a-Johns right as you get in but not much more after that. Several areas on the road are labeled as “no parking” just watch the signs. All in all a great get away!

  • L
    May. 30, 2019

    Guyot Shelter - Dispersed Camping

    Amazing Views

    Step walk in and out though most of the tent plat forms have amazing views. I have stayed here twice and had great experiences. A outhouse is located at this tent site as well as pump-able water, bear boxes and a shelter. Great place to stay on the Pemi Loop. It is a carry in carry out campsite.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    May. 7, 2024

    Guyot Shelter - Dispersed Camping

    Has all you need, but busy

    Despite being so remote, one of the busiest back country camps in the Whites.

    Has a nice shelter, spring, privy, platforms, some sites have somewhat of a view of far away mountain tops.

    No space for non-free standing tents. Quite a hike dropping down from the main trail to the campsite, 15-20 min straight up to hike out in the morning

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 29, 2023

    Elbow Pond Road Dispersed Site

    Car camping at elbow pond

    This is an awesome spot for camping. They have a couple different spots where you can park and walk up to your site or they have sites you can pull right up next to them. Some of the camping spots have fire pits but not all. Theres a nice pond with great views and good fishing. Some of the sites are close together but there are some that are a good distance apart. The road in is pretty rough and is not recommended for sedans or lower riding cars. Overall this is a great place to camp if you’re looking for free camping spots. Also it is first come first serve

  • Lisa The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 8, 2024

    Tripoli Road

    Love Tripoli

    Love everything about Tripoli. 1st come 1st serve. We have out favorite sites but have had to venture out and take other sites often times. No electricity, no showers. Portta potties every so often. Always close enough to walk to. Love the sites on the water. Have been going here for over 10 years. My kids now love it too

  • Kevin C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 12, 2024

    Elbow Pond Road Dispersed Site

    Small campsites/No amenities

    Drove in on a Wednesday afternoon and drove past 4 or 5 sites, which were all occupied.

    Then saw a car ahead that was backing up. Long story short, they were afraid to drive across a dry wash in their new Jeep. No place to get by. Had to back my trailer about a quarter mile, so they could get out.

    Camped in a very small spot, just barely enough room for our SUV and small teardrop to get off the road.

    There was only a 20 foot by 12 foot space to camp jn with no water, no dumpster, no toilet, no view of anything and lots of other campers that appear to be long term residents.

    OK for an overnight stay but not a desirable camping location overall.

  • J
    Apr. 13, 2021

    Tripoli Road

    Awesome

    This is a great spot to start getting into camping with less amenities and more outdoors. I have been going there for 20 years and I still recommend it. Drive up the dirt road and find a nice riverside camp site. 3 miles of seclusion if you want. Great hiking trails directly off Tripoli . Hiking the loop trail is amazing.

Guide to Sanbornton

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Sanbornton, New Hampshire, where nature meets tranquility. With a variety of options, you can enjoy the great outdoors while embracing the freedom of camping away from the crowds.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Sanbornton

  • Experience the serenity of riverside camping at Tripoli Road, where you can set up your site close to the water and enjoy fishing or relaxing by the riverbank.
  • Hike the scenic trails directly accessible from Tripoli Road, offering a perfect blend of adventure and breathtaking views.
  • Explore the nearby wilderness and enjoy a peaceful night under the stars at Guyot Shelter - Dispersed Camping, known for its well-maintained platforms and easy access to hiking trails.

Scenic Attractions for Dispersed Campers

  • Visit the picturesque Elbow Pond at Elbow Pond Road Dispersed Site, where you can enjoy fishing and stunning views while camping in a natural setting.
  • Take advantage of the well-reviewed amenities at Guyot Shelter - Dispersed Camping, which includes a water source and picnic tables, making it a great spot for a comfortable camping experience.
  • Discover the remote beauty of Elbow Pond Road Dispersed Site, where you can find secluded spots perfect for unwinding and enjoying nature.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Sanbornton, New Hampshire

  • Arrive early to secure a good spot at Tripoli Road, as it operates on a first-come, first-served basis, especially during busy weekends.
  • Be prepared for limited amenities at Elbow Pond Road Dispersed Site, as it lacks drinking water and toilets, making it essential to bring your own supplies.
  • Keep an eye out for wildlife while camping at Tripoli Road, as bears have been spotted in the area, so it's wise to store food securely.

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Tripoli Road dispersed camping sites?

Tripoli Road offers rustic, primitive camping with minimal amenities. You'll find porta-potties located at the entrance and occasionally along the road, but no showers, electricity, or running water. The sites feature natural clearings with fire rings at many locations. Several campsites are situated along the riverside, offering scenic views. This is a true dispersed camping experience where you'll need to bring all your own supplies and practice Leave No Trace principles. The area is ideal for those seeking to enjoy nature with fewer amenities and more seclusion.

When is the best season for dispersed camping in Sanbornton, NH?

Late spring through early fall is the optimal season for dispersed camping in the Sanbornton area of New Hampshire. For specific locations like Elbow Pond Road Dispersed Site, summer offers great fishing opportunities and full access to the pond with scenic views. Most dispersed camping areas in this region, including those in the White Mountain National Forest, are seasonal with roads typically opening in late May and closing in autumn due to weather conditions. Always verify site accessibility before your trip, especially during spring when mud season can limit access and fall when early snow may cause closures.

Where is Tripoli Road dispersed camping located in New Hampshire?

Tripoli Road is located in the White Mountain National Forest in New Hampshire. It runs between Waterville Valley and Thornton, providing access to numerous dispersed camping sites along its route. The road offers easy access to the Tecumseh Mountain trailhead, making it popular with hikers. It's a seasonal dirt/gravel road that stretches for approximately 3 miles, with the section before Russell Pond typically opening earlier than the rest of the road. For current road status and closures, check the White Mountain National Forest official website.

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