Tent camping near Tamworth, New Hampshire provides access to the southeastern edge of the White Mountain National Forest, where elevations range from 500 to over 3,000 feet. The area receives approximately 50 inches of precipitation annually, with winter snowfall typically remaining on high-elevation trails into May. Water sources around Tamworth camping areas often require filtration, as streams and ponds may contain natural bacteria and parasites common to the region.
What to do
Hike to mountain viewpoints: Camp Penacook Shelter sits along the Piper Trail to Mount Chocorua, where hikers can leave heavy gear at camp before tackling the summit. "The mile and a half to the summit is scrambles up some slick rock, which can still be icy in spots in the spring. It was very helpful that I removed my pack to do this!" notes one Camp Penacook Shelter visitor.
River activities: Camping along the Saco River provides swimming and fishing opportunities from late spring through fall. A camper at Fourth Iron Campground reports, "The water is clear and cold, refreshing on a warm day." River access points include sandy beaches between campsites and the river.
Star viewing: Clear nights offer excellent stargazing opportunities, especially at higher elevation sites. A camper at Sawyer Pond noted: "The pond is gorgeous and the stars were AMAZING. You do have to forage for firewood, which can be rough, but there's a fire pit right in front of the lean to."
What campers like
Trail accessibility: Tent sites at Sawyer Pond provide quick access to hiking trails. One camper shared: "The hike from the parking lot to the campsite was 1.5 miles and pretty easy. It is mostly flat with a few minor hills (I saw children and elderly folks easily using this trail)."
Secluded tent platforms: Many backcountry sites feature raised tent platforms to protect the forest floor and provide level sleeping areas. At Guyot Shelter, "Some are very isolated and some with great views. Privy is a bit of a walk. And the eating area is very small. X3 bear boxes. Great Water source right near the eating area."
Field camping options: For those who prefer open-air sites, some locations offer field camping with level ground. A visitor at Paugus Brook Farm noted: "The camping area is a field in the back with fairly level ground and lots of space, and is a very short walk from the designated parking area."
What you should know
Trail conditions: Spring hiking can involve crossing streams with high water levels. One camper at Rogers Ledge reported: "A gradual climb from the trail head to the campsite through a few boggy areas before climbing into the boreal forest for a bit. Prime moose habitat!"
Site availability: Many popular sites fill quickly, especially during summer weekends. At Sawyer Pond, a visitor observed: "I passed a few day hikers but was the only person camping, however I did speak to a family that was hiking down who said that the campground was completely full the night before (Saturday night)."
Bear precautions: Food storage is critical throughout the White Mountain region. At Northern Nursery Brookside Campsites, facilities are minimal with "no running water, only a porta potty but it was great for a place to stay the night while exploring the white mountains."
Tips for camping with families
Short backpacking routes: Several tent camping options near Tamworth work well for families with children. One camper noted about Sawyer Pond: "This is a great beginner backpacking trip, great even for kids! The site has one shelter and 6 campsites available on the bank of Sawyer Pond."
Shelter options: Some sites provide lean-tos as alternatives to tent camping. At Camp Penacook Shelter, "This is a 3-sided shelter with a fairly low roof. You could fit one larger tent or two smaller tents, but I highly suggest sleeping in the open air!"
Water access: Campgrounds with safe swimming areas work well for families. At Fourth Iron Campground, "Sites are situated just off the Sacco River and river access is easy, with multiple rocky beaches in between the sites and river."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV facilities: Most camping near Tamworth focuses on tent camping with minimal RV accommodations. At Stagecoach Falls, the three sites do offer electric hookups and water hookups, making it one of the few options for RV campers in the immediate Tamworth vicinity.
Nearby alternatives: RV campers often use larger campgrounds slightly farther from Tamworth. At Swans Falls Campground, a visitor noted: "Camped here with family—all adults, 3 tents. We all fit in the large site easily. Sites are wooded but not a ton of space/trees in between them."
Day-use options: RV travelers can park at day-use areas and hike to tent camping areas. According to a Fourth Iron Campground visitor, "The parking area is a decent size and popular for day users wanting to get a little taste of the Sacco River."
