Best Dispersed Camping in New Hampshire

White Mountain National Forest offers several dispersed camping options near New Hampshire, with varying levels of amenities and accessibility. Town Hall Road Dispersed features multiple free sites along a dirt road, many with river access and established fire rings. Tripoli Road provides roadside camping with sites that range from riverside locations to more secluded wooded areas. Cherry Mountain Road and Haystack Road offer primitive camping opportunities with basic fire pits and access to hiking trails. For backcountry enthusiasts, Guyot Shelter provides wooden platforms, a three-sided shelter, and bear boxes at 4,360 feet elevation.

Most dispersed sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservations accepted. According to reviews, Tripoli Road requires registration at the ranger station on the western end, with flat rates charged per car for weekday or weekend periods. Several campers noted that bears are active in the area, particularly at Tripoli Road where camping was temporarily closed in 2019 after bears visited campsites and accessed improperly stored food. Proper food storage in vehicles or bear canisters is essential at all sites.

Road conditions vary significantly between locations. Town Hall Road features hard-packed dirt with occasional dips but remains passable for medium-sized RVs. Elbow Pond Road is described as rough and not recommended for sedans or low-clearance vehicles. Cell service is limited or non-existent at most sites, though Haystack Road reportedly has reception at some sites. Most locations are seasonal, with roads typically opening in late May and closing in autumn. Visitors should check the White Mountain National Forest Facebook page for current road status and closures before planning their trip.

Best Dispersed Sites in New Hampshire (9)

    1. Town Hall Road Dispersed

    18 Reviews
    Chatham, NH

    "Awesome boondocking in New Hampshire, what a treat in the east coast! Just beautiful scenery, with trees, rivers, creeks, hiking trails with a pond- we absolutely loved our time here. "

    "My first ever dispersed camping experience. So freaking amazing and unbelievable. It was pouring rain when we came to NH so we tried to wait out the rain, but it was getting dark."

    2. Tripoli Road

    11 Reviews
    North Woodstock, NH
    Website
    +1 (603) 528-8721

    $20 - $30 / night

    "Easy access to trailhead for Tecumseh Mountain. Rustic sites with no water or electric."

    "No electricity, no showers. Portta potties every so often. Always close enough to walk to. Love the sites on the water. Have been going here for over 10 years. My kids now love it too"

    3. Guyot Shelter - Dispersed Camping

    9 Reviews
    Deerfield, NH
    Website

    $15 / night

    "Sufficient amount of platform, water source, bear proof Joe box, pivy and springs all at one spot"

    "Step walk in and out though most of the tent plat forms have amazing views. I have stayed here twice and had great experiences."

    4. Haystack Road

    5 Reviews
    Twin Mountain, NH

    "They have a fire pit, plenty of woods around, and are free."

    "It is next to the Highway on a paved fire road. So you can hear traffic. And it is paved (which is good if it’s wet and muddy elsewhere). The other spots looked amazing."

    5. Cherry Mountain Road Dispersed

    4 Reviews
    Bretton Woods, NH
    Website
    +1 (603) 466-2713

    "This site is about 90 yards from the fire tower trailhead.

    Site #9 goes back about 70 to 80 feet back off the road."

    "We stayed on site #5 because it was flat, sunny, grassy and had a little brook. Had some passing by traffic but each site is far apart from each other."

    6. Elbow Pond Road Dispersed Site

    3 Reviews
    North Woodstock, NH
    Website
    +1 (603) 536-6100

    "They have a couple different spots where you can park and walk up to your site or they have sites you can pull right up next to them. Some of the camping spots have fire pits but not all."

    7. Hogan Road Pulloff near Appalachian Trail

    2 Reviews
    Gorham, NH

    "amazing lil spot, a pull off the wild rocky road. very private. right next to a serene view of the lake. very mild highway traffic sounds in the distance. there was another spot at the posted coordinates"

    "Would be really quiet if not for the road across the lake. I saw one truck in the evening and one in the morning."

    8. Haystack Road

    2 Reviews
    Deerfield, NH
    Website
    +1 (603) 528-8721

    "Right near a great swimming hole and the twin mountains. It is quiet, the sites are far apart."

Show More
Showing results 1-9 of 9 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win


Dispersed Camping Reviews in New Hampshire

51 Reviews of 9 New Hampshire Campgrounds


  • Jean C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 17, 2019

    Tripoli Road

    Dispersed camping, be bear aware!

    Tripoli Road is a seasonal road, opening in late May most years and closing in autumn. Check the White Mountain National Forest Facebook page for up to date road closures/status. The section before Russell Pond often opens before the rest of it, which is graded, not paved. The road runs between the Waterville Valley area and I-93 exit 31. This is roadside camping, no frills, first come, first served. You must stay at a site with a fire ring, but sites are not numbered. Road signs demarcate no camping zones; some areas look like they could be campsites, but will also be marked with no camping signs. 

    You must register at the ranger station on the western end of the road, shortly past the entrance to the Russell Pond campground. Rates are a flat rate set per car and per weekends or weekday period. In other words, you pay one rate for 1-5 weekdays ($20 in 2019) and another fee for a weekend($25-30 - holidays). It’s self service most of the time, with the ranger available Friday and Saturday evenings. 

    The sites vary from sites near and level with the road to ones set above or well below the road. Some are near a river, most are wooded. Some are isolated, others are close together. There are no reservations, so you'll be choosing your own when you arrive. Downhill sites closest to the Russell Pond area seem to be most popular. Most of these were occupied on a late June weekend, while those farther down the road remained empty.

    There are port-a-potties near the western entrance, but otherwise you’re on your own with cat holes or portable toilet solutions. Nearest showers are at Russell Pond. Please keep it clean and protect the area. I’ve passed through several times while hiking My Osceola and have observed that these sites are often filled with groups or families with multiple tents. On a late June weekend there are numerous empty sites, so they seem to be more available than the dispersed sites along Gale River Rd and Haystack Rd (farther north in Twin Mountain). Excessive drinking and noise can be an issue. 

    You need to be aware that bears are in the area. Following the July 4, 2019 holiday, the camping area was closed after bears visited campsites and got into food that was left in the open and not secured in vehicles or bear canisters. The camping area re-opened July 19, but check the White Mountain National Forest FB page before heading up there. If the issue recurs, I wouldn't be surprised if they close it again.

    Hiking in the region include the Osceolas (moderate hike with beautiful views, exceedingly popular and crowded on autumn weekends - get there early!), Tripyramid, and Tecumseh. Shorter treks include Welch-Dickey (great open ledges) and Snow's Mountain (along a river with falls). Nearby Russell Pond offers ranger programs, fishing, and you can put a kayak or canoe in. The Pemigewassett offers tubing and kayaking put ins. Outfitters one exit south can provide you with transportation and rentals. Exit 32 for Lincoln, Woodstock, and the Kanc is less than 5 miles north.

    Cell service is decent at nearby Russell Pond (Verizon seemed to offer better service than AT&T).

  • Kevin C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 19, 2024

    Cherry Mountain Road Dispersed

    Super quiet and lots of privacy

    Came into the area after 7 PM on a Tuesday and found several open sites. We stayed one night in campsite 9. This site is about 90 yards from the fire tower trailhead.

    Site #9 goes back about 70 to 80 feet back off the road. There appears to have been a longer site, but the Forest Service placed boulders blacking vehicles from going further. Just past the boulders is a large fire circle with room for 6 to 8 campers to sit around the fire.

    We were able to collect sunlight onto our solar panel from the site.

    The camp site are all disbursed enough that we did not hear any other camping sounds at all. It was so quiet I could hear the sound of crow wings flapping as they flew by.

    We enjoyed a spectacular view of the Blood Super Moon from the campsite. Overall the site was open to the sky nea3 the road yet protected from the wind.

    The only downside was the lack of any other amenities. As far as disbursed camping in the national forest, this place is not a decent unpaved road and our campsite was only about 3 miles from the highway.

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 28, 2023

    Town Hall Road Dispersed

    Awesome Boondocking

    Awesome boondocking in New Hampshire, what a treat in the east coast! Just beautiful scenery, with trees, rivers, creeks, hiking trails with a pond- we absolutely loved our time here. 

    Town Hall Rd is a long road with many designated dispersed sites, all far apart from each other and all varying in levelness and size. We got lucky and snagged a perfect spot 2 miles in from the entrance sign- completely level (didn’t even need our leveling blocks) and big enough for our 26ft class c. Each site is different, but there were plenty that could fit a medium sized RV like ours. I wouldn’t recommend a giant 5th wheel or class A to come here looking for a spot. The road is dirt, but it’s hard packed and smooth, with a few dips and holes here and there. A little narrow but it’s manageable. The downside of a great road is the speeding cars and trucks- very annoying but thankfully there wasn’t much traffic in early October. I’d say more than half the sites were open when we stayed there mid-week. 

     No amenities here, just a rock fire pit to designate that it’s a spot. Please pack out your trash. Zero cell service in this whole area, but some messages popped through while we were hiking. weBoost did not help. Heavily wooded area, so it’s not so great for solar panels and probably not starlink either (we don’t have starlink so I can’t report on that).

  • G
    Apr. 14, 2020

    Haystack Road

    Secluded, yet centrally located.

    These are my go to sites when I am in the Franconia Notch area. They have a fire pit, plenty of woods around, and are free. The North Twin Trailhead is at the end of Haystack Rd., these trails connect to the Twin Mountain peaks and the Pemigewasset Wilderness area. Its is a great staging ground for weeks worth of adventures, and you're allowed to stay for two weeks. They do get crowded during the season, so you'll have better luck showing up mid-week. Leave your tent set up, or your site could be taken when you get back. There is cell reception at most of the sites. Do not rely on cell phone trail maps, there is little to no reception trail on the trails. Use a downloadable GPS map like a Gaia GPS, or a Garmin type device. Also, wildlife like bear and moose will visit you at night. it's almost a certainty, keep your food locked in a bear tight container. *** The first few sites on the left have a small stream behind them, it'll make your stay a little easier. Bathing, dishes, etc.***

  • Raj T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 28, 2021

    Guyot Shelter - Dispersed Camping

    Gayut Tentsite

    Sufficient amount of platform, water source, bear proof Joe box, pivy and springs all at one spot

  • Atlas W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 30, 2023

    Town Hall Road Dispersed

    SO AMAZING!!

    My first ever dispersed camping experience. So freaking amazing and unbelievable. It was pouring rain when we came to NH so we tried to wait out the rain, but it was getting dark. We followed the directions given by previous reviews. Turn onto town hall rd. and keep going past the residential area until you get to gravel road. keep going straight until you see the national forest sign. about a mile later us when campsites started popping up. the first few were full since it was 7pm but we came across one right around where the pin is dropped for this location. the cliff wasn’t too steep here (i passed up a campsite before this one bc it seemed too steep for my liking) and pretty large. beautiful view of the water and even a path down to swim. 10/10 experience and i cant wait to go back.

  • Justin P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 16, 2021

    Cherry Mountain Road Dispersed

    Smaller car and tent sites

    Stopped by on the Cohos Trail. Great location with access to the Cherry Mountain trail, and back down to Ammonoosuc Falls back down near Rt. 302.

    There are a string of tent sites on either side of the road with some right up to the intersection with Cherry Mountain trail.

    A few were small and could just fit a tent and a car, where some offered more space. Some offered a bit of privacy into the woods while most were right along the road.

    There are no facilities here, and most sites showed some significant signs of use. 

    There were plenty of sites available on the weekend in October.

  • Jean C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 11, 2019

    Haystack Road

    Dispersed roadside camping near Twin Mountain Trailhead & Franconia Notch

    If you can't snag a site along Gale River Rd or you are looking to hike the Twin Mountains, then continue a little farther north on US 3 near Twin Mountain (a little north of the Beaver Brook Picnic Area) and try your luck on Haystack Rd. This road is closed in winter and will open in late spring after the road has dried out and any repairs have been made. In 2019, it opened in mid-June. Check the the White Mountain National Forest FB page or website (FB is usually more up-to-date) for road status, including closures in the autumn.

    When open, you can drive in to one of 11 numbered, wooded sites and camp up to 14 nights for free. You may have up to 3 vehicles and 15 people on a site. The only amenity is a fire pit, but the road ends at the Little River, offering fishing and swimming options. The parking lot at the end of Haystack Rd serves as the Twin Mountain trail head. You may see moose or bears in the area.

    Franconia Notch State Park is just south of here, with its hikes, recreation trail, echo lake, and the Flume. Head east on 302 and you'll find yourself in Crawford Notch State Park with waterfalls and hikes.

    Forgot something? Fosters Corners just a few miles north has an eclectic selection of essentials as well as gas. Or take I-93 north to Littleton to a wider variety of shops.

  • Josie W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 8, 2024

    Town Hall Road Dispersed

    Great location!

    We loved this spot. There were plenty of sites to choose from and most (not all) had access to the river as well as a fire ring. Sites were on a dirt road, but it was quiet for the most part. Sites were also a good distance from each other so it felt pretty private. We stayed two nights and at two different sites; enjoyed both. Would love to return here in the future.


Guide to New Hampshire

New Hampshire offers a wealth of opportunities for those seeking the tranquility of dispersed camping, where nature takes center stage and amenities are minimal. Whether you're a seasoned camper or just starting out, the state's diverse landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for your outdoor adventures.

Tips for free and dispersed camping in New Hampshire

  • Town Hall Road Dispersed: This spot allows for both tent and RV camping, with no permits required and fires permitted, making it a great choice for a spontaneous getaway.
  • Tripoli Road: Known for its beautiful riverside sites, this area is first-come, first-served, so arriving early can help secure a prime location.
  • Haystack Road: With multiple secluded sites, this area is ideal for those looking to escape the crowds while still being close to hiking trails.

Activities for dispersed campers

  • Guyot Shelter - Dispersed Camping: Perfect for hikers, this site offers easy access to trails and features amenities like a water source and picnic tables, making it a comfortable stop on your journey.
  • Elbow Pond Road Dispersed Site: Enjoy fishing and scenic views at this location, which provides a peaceful environment for both relaxation and outdoor activities.
  • Cherry Mountain Road Dispersed: This area is great for those looking to explore nearby trails while enjoying the privacy of well-spaced camping spots.

Unique features of New Hampshire's dispersed camping

  • Hogan Road Pulloff near Appalachian Trail: This secluded spot offers a serene view of the lake and plenty of trees for hanging hammocks, perfect for a quiet retreat.
  • Haystack Road: Known for its spacious sites and proximity to the Twin Mountain trailhead, this area is a favorite for those seeking adventure and natural beauty.
  • CherryMountain Rd Dispersed Pull Off: While amenities are limited, the privacy and natural surroundings make this a worthwhile stop for those looking to immerse themselves in nature.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best locations for dispersed camping in New Hampshire?

New Hampshire offers several excellent dispersed camping locations, primarily in the White Mountain National Forest. Tripoli Road is a popular seasonal option, typically open from late May through autumn with numerous rustic sites along the graded road. The section near Russell Pond often opens earlier than the rest. Cherry Mountain Road Dispersed provides convenient access to hiking trails, including the Cherry Mountain trail and routes to Ammonoosuc Falls. Most sites are well-spaced with varying sizes, and some are located right at the trailhead intersection. Other notable dispersed camping areas include Haystack Road, Town Hall Road, and locations throughout the Pemigewasset Wilderness. Always check current White Mountain National Forest regulations and road closures before your trip.

Is free camping allowed in New Hampshire's White Mountains?

Yes, free camping is allowed in designated areas of New Hampshire's White Mountains. Haystack Road offers free dispersed sites with fire pits and is a popular choice when camping near Franconia Notch. The road typically opens in late spring and closes during winter. It serves as an excellent staging ground for hiking the Twin Mountain peaks and accessing the Pemigewasset Wilderness. Town Hall Road Dispersed also provides free camping with spacious sites separated for privacy, many featuring river access and established fire rings. When free camping in the White Mountains, you must follow Leave No Trace principles, camp only in designated sites (usually indicated by fire rings), and adhere to the 14-day stay limit within a 30-day period.

What amenities can I expect at primitive camping sites in New Hampshire?

Primitive camping sites in New Hampshire typically offer minimal amenities. At Hogan Road Pulloff near Appalachian Trail, you'll find basic clearings for tents but little else. Most dispersed sites feature established fire rings and flat areas for tents or small RVs. Some backcountry locations like CherryMountain Rd Dispersed Pull Off provide drive-in or hike-in access but no facilities. For water, you'll need to bring your own or have filtration systems for nearby natural sources. A few areas have rudimentary toilets—Tripoli Road offers port-a-johns at the entrance, while backcountry shelters like Guyot may have an outhouse. Cell service is typically spotty or non-existent. Most importantly, these sites operate on carry-in, carry-out principles with no trash service, and campers are expected to practice Leave No Trace ethics.

What is boondocking in New Hampshire and where is it permitted?

Boondocking in New Hampshire refers to camping without hookups or facilities in undeveloped areas, primarily on public lands. It's permitted in designated dispersed camping areas within White Mountain National Forest. Elbow Pond Road Dispersed Site is a prime boondocking location with beautiful scenery and access to natural features. Guyot Shelter offers a more remote boondocking experience for hikers, with tent platforms and basic amenities for backpackers. Most boondocking in New Hampshire requires camping at least 200 feet from water sources and roads, using existing fire rings, and following a 14-day maximum stay policy. Vehicles must remain on established roads and parking areas. For the best experience, bring all necessary supplies including water, as most sites have no services, and pack out all waste.