Dispersed camping near Stark, New Hampshire extends beyond established campgrounds into remote backcountry areas of the White Mountain National Forest. At elevations ranging from 1,000 to 3,000 feet, campers can find secluded spots along forest roads, near waterways, and on wooded hillsides. The region experiences significant temperature fluctuations even in summer, with nighttime lows sometimes dropping into the 40s while daytime highs reach the 70s.
What to do
Paddle local waterways: The Connecticut River offers excellent paddling opportunities accessible from several camps. At Maine Railroad Trestle, "There are several sites available here and a really nice rocky beach with easy access for loading and unloading. It's also a nice spot to fish from."
Explore Cohos Trail sections: The 170-mile Cohos Trail passes through the region, providing excellent day hiking or backpacking options. At Devil's Rest Shelter, one hiker noted it was "a beautiful structure nestled in the woods, with a privy nearby and a bear box... a quiet, peaceful, well-maintained stop before heading further north."
Fish mountain ponds: Remote ponds offer excellent fishing opportunities for those with valid NH fishing licenses. At Unknown Pond, "The pond is beautiful and open to fly fishing for those with a NH fishing license. While I didn't have much luck with the fish, I was certainly surrounded by a multitude of frogs!"
What campers like
Natural soundscapes: Many tent campsites near Stark feature unique natural sounds. At Unknown Pond, campers experience "a lovely backdrop for sleep" with frogs that "seem to sing all day and all night."
Remote island camping: For truly secluded experiences, boat-accessible islands offer privacy. At Remote Sites — Umbagog Lake State Park, "We load everything (and everyone) into our canoe and head out for a long weekend at the start of each season... The fishing is also really good here."
Wilderness campsites with basic structures: Many backcountry sites include helpful infrastructure. At Remote Sites — Umbagog Lake State Park, "Most sites have newly renovated privies and tent platforms, picnic tables and fire rings. Be sure you take plenty of fresh water or enough to treat water from the lake."
What you should know
Water access challenges: Most tent sites near Stark require water planning. At Unknown Pond, "The pond provides drinking water so be sure to carry in a water filtration system, chemical treatment or plan to boil water."
Wildlife awareness: The area hosts diverse wildlife requiring appropriate precautions. At Unknown Pond, "Moose and black bears frequent the area, though neither are a nuisance to campers so be sure to store your food appropriately to ensure that remains the case."
Seasonal accessibility: Road conditions vary significantly by season. At Cherry Mountain Road Dispersed, sites are "disbursed enough that we did not hear any other camping sounds at all. It was so quiet I could hear the sound of crow wings flapping as they flew by."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with swimming access: Water features provide built-in entertainment. At Lyman Falls State Park Campground, "The riverbank is a great spot to fish from and enjoy the afternoon sun."
Consider guided options: Some areas offer supported backcountry experiences ideal for families. At Remote Sites — Umbagog Lake State Park, "You can book a boat ride out and back if you want to. We found it easier to book the boat out with all our gear and food and water and wood."
Plan for bugs: Insect protection is essential, especially for children. At Lyman Falls State Park Campground, "Beware the ticks! They weren't the worst I've seen, but they are definitely around."
Tips from RVers
Primitive options only: The Stark area has virtually no developed RV sites; tent camping predominates. At Cherry Mountain Road Dispersed, sites are mostly "small and could just fit a tent and a car, where some offered more space. Some offered a bit of privacy into the woods while most were right along the road."
Consider base camps instead: Rather than bringing RVs to primitive sites, some travelers use developed areas outside the region as base camps. At Northern Waters Base Camp, "We had a large group and a site right on the river. Sites are small but you can fit comfortably."
Road limitations: Forest roads near Stark often have restrictions. At Cherry Mountain Road Dispersed, "The Forest Service placed boulders blocking vehicles from going further. Just past the boulders is a large fire circle with room for 6 to 8 campers to sit around the fire."
