Best Tent Camping near Sunapee, NH

State parks and national forest lands surrounding Sunapee, New Hampshire provide diverse tent camping options for outdoor enthusiasts. Sunapee State Park Campground, located at 86 Beach Access Road in Newbury, offers tent-only camping from May 26 to October 8 with walk-in tent sites available. Cardigan Campsites in Alexandria, approximately 25 miles north of Sunapee, provides primitive tent camping with basic amenities. For backcountry tent camping experiences, several Appalachian Trail shelters including Velvet Rocks and Moose Mountain offer hike-in tent sites within a 30-mile radius of Sunapee.

Tent campsites in the Sunapee region vary significantly in surface conditions and amenities. Most walk-in tent sites feature natural dirt or forest duff surfaces with minimal grading. Backcountry tent camping areas along the Appalachian Trail typically include basic privies but unreliable water sources, as noted in multiple visitor reports of dry springs during summer months. Campers should bring water filters or carry sufficient water supplies. Fire regulations vary by location, with established campgrounds providing fire rings while some backcountry areas restrict fires during dry periods. Tent platforms are available at select locations, including Baker Rocks where large wooden platforms accommodate multiple tents.

In early summer, tent campers find more solitude at backcountry sites while established campgrounds fill quickly on weekends. According to reviews, tent sites at Baker Rocks "felt very secluded" despite being within a developed campground. The tent camping areas around AT shelters offer varying experiences, with one visitor noting that Moose Mountain shelter had "a host of large, flat tent sites" surrounding the main structure. Squam Lakes Association maintains boat-in and hike-in tent sites that one camper described as "simple but gorgeous," with tent platforms and fire rings included in the camping fee. Water access varies significantly between locations, with many backcountry tent sites requiring campers to locate seasonal springs or carry water from distant sources.

Best Tent Sites Near Sunapee, New Hampshire (30)

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 30 campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Sunapee, NH

687 Reviews of 30 Sunapee Campgrounds



Guide to Sunapee

Tent camping near Sunapee, New Hampshire, offers a blend of scenic beauty and outdoor adventure, perfect for nature enthusiasts looking to escape into the wilderness.

Tent campers like these nearby activities

  • Enjoy a challenging climb and stunning views at the top of Mt. Cardigan, with a night spent at the Cardigan Campsites.
  • Experience the tranquility of the Appalachian Trail while staying at the Moose Mountain Backcountry Shelter, where you can hike in and explore the surrounding forest.
  • Take a break at the Happy Hill Backcountry Shelter, featuring a unique double-decker shelter and ample tent camping spots.

Tent campers appreciate these amenities

  • The Sweetwater site provides drinking water, showers, and picnic tables, making it a comfortable choice for families.
  • At the Trapper John Backcountry Campground, you'll find basic amenities like toilets and a privy, perfect for a rustic experience.
  • The Cardigan Skyline Camps offer reservable sites with drinking water and firewood, ideal for a cozy camping experience.

Explore these specific local attractions

  • Visit the picturesque North Hartland Lake Beach, where you can relax by the water after a night at the North Hartland Lake Beach (VT).
  • Discover the beauty of the White Mountain National Forest while camping at the Velvet Rocks Shelter, a great spot for hiking enthusiasts.
  • Experience the serene environment of the Winturri Backcountry Shelter, where you can enjoy the peacefulness of the woods while tent camping.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Sunapee, NH?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Sunapee, NH is Cardigan Campsites with a 4-star rating from 4 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Sunapee, NH?

TheDyrt.com has all 30 tent camping locations near Sunapee, NH, with real photos and reviews from campers.