Best Dispersed Camping near North Concord, VT
The North Concord, Vermont region provides access to several dispersed camping areas along the Connecticut River and in nearby New Hampshire's White Mountain National Forest. Free primitive sites include locations such as the Scott C. Devlin Memorial and Maine Railroad Trestle along the Connecticut River Paddlers Trail in Vermont, plus multiple forest road pull-offs in New Hampshire including Haystack Road and Cherry Mountain Road dispersed sites. Most areas maintain minimal infrastructure with only fire rings at established locations.
Access to dispersed campsites varies significantly based on location. River sites require boat navigation, while forest road campsites typically need vehicles with adequate clearance. Cherry Mountain Road and Elbow Pond Road sites feature rough dirt roads that may challenge standard passenger cars during wet conditions. "The road in is pretty rough and is not recommended for sedans or lower riding cars," noted one visitor to Elbow Pond. Most forest road sites permit stays up to 14 days, though this limit is strictly enforced during peak seasons. Fire restrictions apply seasonally, particularly during dry summer months and fall fire danger periods.
Camping experiences differ substantially between river and forest sites. Connecticut River locations offer secluded waterfront camping with basic amenities like composting toilets and picnic tables. "This is another beautiful site along the CT River Paddler's Trail. It is well maintained and tucked on a knoll in a pine forest," reported one paddler about Scott C. Devlin Memorial site. Forest road locations provide easier vehicle access but typically have no facilities. Wildlife encounters are common, particularly in White Mountain National Forest areas. A Haystack Road camper warned, "Wildlife like bear and moose will visit you at night. It's almost a certainty, keep your food locked in a bear tight container." Sites along Cherry Mountain Road remain relatively quiet even during busy periods, with campsites spaced far enough apart to maintain privacy.
