Best Tent Camping near Woodsville, NH
White Mountain National Forest offers numerous backcountry tent camping options within 30 miles of Woodsville, New Hampshire. Tent-only sites like Dugout Hideaway at Granny Clark Brook provide secluded camping experiences with basic amenities including fire rings and picnic tables. For hikers seeking primitive tent camping, the Appalachian Trail corridor features several established backcountry sites including Kinsman Pond Shelter and Guyot Shelter, both offering tent platforms and composting toilets. Fourth Iron Campground, situated along the Saco River, provides walk-in tent sites with river access just a quarter-mile from the parking area.
Most tent campsites in the region feature dirt or wooden platforms for tent setup, with varying amenities depending on location. Backcountry tent sites typically include composting toilets and bear boxes or cables for food storage, but rarely offer potable water. Campers should bring water filters or carry sufficient water supplies. Sites along the Appalachian Trail often require fees during peak season when caretakers are present. Weather conditions can limit access to higher-elevation tent sites, with snow lingering into late spring at locations like Guyot Shelter (4,360 ft elevation). Forest Protection Areas prohibit camping within a quarter-mile of trailheads and established campsites.
According to reviews, tent platforms at Guyot Shelter "have amazing views" and include "pumpable water, bear boxes and a shelter" making it "a great place to stay on the Pemi Loop." One camper at Fourth Iron Campground noted that "despite its proximity to the road, the campground is quiet" with "multiple rocky beaches between the sites and river." Tent sites at popular backcountry locations fill quickly during summer weekends, particularly at easily accessible locations like Sawyer Pond, where visitors recommend arriving early to secure a spot. Winter camping is possible at some lower-elevation sites, though facilities are minimal and seasonal roads may be closed.