Easy hike to a pondside campground with a lean-to or tent sites
Sawyer Pond was my introduction to backpacking more than 40 years ago. We approached it from the Kancamagus side, which necessitates a crossing of the Swift River early in the hike and may be dangerous if the river is high. The easier access is from the Sawyer River Rd, though until the road opens after mud season, it will be a longer hike. Check the White Mountain National Forest website for information about road openings in the spring and fall. Either approach, but particularly the one from Sawyer River Rd, is family friendly. It's easy access means it can also attract weekend partiers.
This is open year round and each season offers something different. It's a nice snowshoe hike in winter. I've ice-fished on the pond. Sites are first-come, first-serve with a tent platform and fire pit. Plan to hang your food due to bears. No cell service. Autumn colors across the pond are pretty.