Primitive camping near Sunapee, New Hampshire centers primarily around the White Mountain National Forest region, situated at elevations ranging from 800 to 3,500 feet. The National Forest spans 750,000 acres across New Hampshire and Maine, with dispersed camping areas experiencing temperature drops of 10-15 degrees compared to surrounding lower elevations. Forest roads accessing these sites typically require higher clearance vehicles, with most primitive camping areas located 3-10 miles from major highways.
What to do
River activities: Primitive sites near Tripoli Road provide access to the Pemigewassett River. "The Pemigewassett offers tubing and kayaking put ins. Outfitters one exit south can provide you with transportation and rentals," explains Jean C., who also notes cell service is "decent at nearby Russell Pond."
Fishing opportunities: Elbow Pond offers fishing for those seeking quiet water activities. According to Dom L., the area provides "a nice pond with great views and good fishing" at the Elbow Pond Road Dispersed Site, though reaching it requires navigating "pretty rough" roads.
Long Trail connections: Vermont options include access to major trail systems. At Stratton Pond Shelter, Miccal M. found "a great location at the intersection of AT, LT and Stratton Mountain trail" with the shelter being "a 3.75mi hike from the nearest parking lot in winter."
What campers like
Riverside spots: Many campers specifically seek out water-adjacent sites. Ryan M. notes that at Tripoli Road, "Some have streams going thru them," while Kat B. suggests to "get a good spot by the river" for the best experience.
Seclusion options: For those seeking privacy, Last Light on Michigan Brook offers isolation. Thomas and James S. describe it as "the very last spot on the right hand side. If you've reached the closed gate you've missed the site!"
Forest immersion: Simply experiencing the natural setting draws many visitors. Danielle B. recalls "hiked down a trail and found the most relaxing spot right by the river," highlighting the reward of exploring beyond roadside options. Ali B. mentions the weekday advantage: "Great spot for the weekdays, hardly anyone around and got a great site right by the river."
What you should know
Vehicle considerations: Many dispersed sites require appropriate vehicles. Dom L. cautions that Elbow Pond Road is "pretty rough and is not recommended for sedans or lower riding cars." Similarly, Kevin C. encountered difficulties: "Had to back my trailer about a quarter mile, so they could get by."
Size limitations: Site dimensions vary significantly. Kevin C. found "only a 20 foot by 12 foot space to camp in" at Elbow Pond, which was "just barely enough room for our SUV and small teardrop to get off the road."
Timing strategy: Weekday visits typically offer better availability. According to Caitlin K. at Downed Bridge Camp, the area "fills quickly on a weekend. But don't worry there is primitive camping starting about a mile down fire road 10."
Limited amenities: These sites offer bare-minimum facilities. Miccal M. emphasizes that at Road's End Dispersed Camp, "The only thing you will find here is a fire ring," while Beau B. notes "Port-a-Johns right as you get in but not much more after that."
Tips for camping with families
Gradual wilderness exposure: Some sites provide an entry point to more rustic camping. Joseph A. describes Tripoli Road as "a great spot to start getting into camping with less amenities and more outdoors" with "3 miles of seclusion if you want."
Site selection timing: For family trips, arriving early ensures better options. Laura recommends: "Went on a Saturday afternoon after a long hike and there were plenty of spots open," but suggests to "Camp a little further in" to avoid road noise.
Space requirements: Groups need to consider site capacity. Dom L. explains that at Elbow Pond, "Some of the camping spots have fire pits but not all" and "Some of the sites are close together but there are some that are a good distance apart."
Trail proximity: Consider accessibility to shorter hiking routes for children. Mike M. notes that On the Hill Dispersed Camp is "a nice size primitive site for a small group" that provides a base for nearby explorations.
Tips from RVers
Road conditions: Approach forest roads cautiously with trailers. At Road's End Dispersed Camp, Miccal M. reports "the drive in is a little rough, but doable for most vehicles."
Site selection: Position is critical for larger vehicles. Nels M. notes that at Elbow Pond, "the sites are a little less spread out than I wanted," making careful site selection essential.
Turnaround space: Consider your exit strategy before committing to a site. Kevin C. recounts a challenging situation where they "had to back my trailer about a quarter mile" after encountering an impassable section of road.
