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Established Camping

Wild River Wilderness Area

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CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Wild River Wilderness Area near Gilead, NH, offers camping surrounded by forested terrain and river landscapes. Temperatures can range from 50°F to 80°F in summer and drop significantly in winter. Nearby, visitors can explore the White Mountain National Forest and enjoy hiking trails and scenic views.

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Location

Wild River Wilderness Area is located in New Hampshire

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

44.28623704959958 N
71.07542342973517 W

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Detours Nearby

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Cold River

Cold River

37 min away

Blue Brook Tent Site

Blue Brook Tent Site

39 min away

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Access

  • Hike-In
    Backcountry sites.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites

Features

For Campers

  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

FREE established camping

Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.

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General Info


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1 Review

Reviewed Jul. 8, 2020

Backcountry Wilderness Camping

The Wild River Wilderness area spans both New Hampshire and Maine and can be accessed by multiple trail heads in either state. Route 113 (open seasonally late May/early June until the snow begins to fall) travels through the Evans Notch in the White Mountain National Forest and has multiple trail heads that enable you to access the Wild River Wilderness Area. This wilderness area is relatively new and is one of my favorites in the country.

There are several established campsites in the Wilderness Area, most of which had shelters at one point that were taken down once it received the Wilderness designation. However, the areas are still established camping areas with tent cribbing and many have established fire rings and National Forest Service signage. I will try to add those camping areas and review them based on their names and not lump them into one review. 

That being said, this particular review is focused on camping in the Wilderness outside of designated sites. In our household, we call this "bush crashing." In May of this year, the Dyrt magazine published a helpful article about this very thing and you can check it out here: https://thedyrt.com/magazine/lifestyle/free-camping-national-forests/

There is plenty of "dispersed" (aka bush crashing) available in the Wild River Wilderness. Just keep in mind that some areas are not open to camping, mainly Forest Protection Areas that are generally located within a 1/4 mile from trail heads and established designated campsites. Otherwise, just find a spot 100-200 feet from water and the trail and you're golden. On this particular trip we parked at the Wild River Campground (fee required to park here) and headed into the woods via the Wild River Trail. Once you're in the wilderness area, keep your eyes pealed for any flat-ish spot up from the river and you won't be disappointed. 

Just remember, dispersed camping can be a little bit of a shock if you're used to rolling up to an established and/or maintained camping area. It will not look like what you may expect, so don't be disheartened or deterred. You can still make a cozy home for the night. Be sure to bring a stove to cook one, as fires are not permitted outside of designated sites. Also be prepared to dispose of your solid human waste per Leave No Trace principles (back a WAG bag or trowel). There's a lot to explore and with the ability to camp just about anywhere you want, there's no need to worry about mileage or a camp site being full. The world is your oyster when you hone the art of bush crashing!

SiteDispersed Camping
Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Wild River Wilderness Area by Sarah C., July 8, 2020
  • Review photo of Wild River Wilderness Area by Sarah C., July 8, 2020
  • Review photo of Wild River Wilderness Area by Sarah C., July 8, 2020
  • (10) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Wild River Campground located in New Hampshire?

Wild River Wilderness Area straddles both New Hampshire and Maine within the White Mountain National Forest. The area can be accessed via Route 113, which travels through Evans Notch and connects to multiple trailheads. This scenic road is open seasonally from approximately late May or early June until snowfall begins in the fall. The wilderness area features numerous access points from both states, making it a versatile destination for visitors approaching from different directions.

What are the camping options available at Wild River Campground?

Wild River Wilderness Area provides backcountry camping opportunities in a natural setting. The area offers primitive camping experiences for those seeking to truly disconnect from developed amenities. Visitors should be prepared for self-sufficient camping with proper equipment for wilderness conditions. The campground operates seasonally, typically accessible when Route 113 is open from late spring through fall. Be prepared to follow Leave No Trace principles as this is a wilderness area focused on preserving its natural character.

What do visitors say about their experience at Wild River Campground?

Visitors to Wild River Wilderness Area appreciate its unspoiled natural setting and the opportunity to experience true wilderness within the White Mountains. The area receives high marks for its scenic beauty, peaceful atmosphere, and the chance to escape crowded destinations. Many highlight the accessibility from Route 113 via multiple trailheads, though note the seasonal road closures. Outdoor enthusiasts value the pristine environment and diverse recreational opportunities available across both New Hampshire and Maine portions of this wilderness area.

What wilderness experiences can you have at Wild River Campground?

The Wild River Wilderness Area offers pristine backcountry experiences with multiple hiking trails accessible from various trailheads along Route 113 in Evans Notch. Visitors can enjoy hiking through diverse terrain, fishing in the Wild River, wildlife viewing, and immersing themselves in the natural beauty of the White Mountain National Forest. The area provides opportunities for solitude and connecting with nature away from developed facilities. During warmer months, the wilderness offers excellent day hikes and backpacking routes with stunning mountain views.