Cozy campsites with showers, playgrounds, and pools have their place – but if you live in New Hampshire you’d be remiss to not leave it all behind and go rustic once in a while with some primitive camping in New Hampshire. These seven secluded campgrounds in New Hampshire deliver – they’re all safe and maintained but offer little in the way of creature comforts. However, they’ll make up for all of that when you’re staring up at the gorgeous stars and enjoying the quiet sounds of birds in the trees at these remote camping spots in New Hampshire.

1. Mollidgewock State Park, Errol

Berlin Road, Berlin Rd, Errol, NH, USA
Flickr/Mark Bonica
This under-appreciated park is tucked into the Thirteen Mile Woods Scenic Area, on the banks of the Androscoggin River. The campground doesn't offer much in the way of luxuries, though it does offer pit toilets, drinking water, and canoe and kayak rentals. It's a perfect place to set up to enjoy paddling or fishing on the river and one of the best places for private camping in New Hampshire.

See what it’s like to go kayaking in this lovely area:

2. Umbagog Lake State Park, Cambridge

New Hampshire 26, NH-26, Errol, NH, USA
TripAdvisor/JacqB510
Umbagog Lake State Park is already fairly far from it all - but if you really don't want to run into anyone, choose one of its remote campsites, which are only accessible by boat. You're certain to see plenty of wildlife in this park too. This is the perfect spot for boondocking in New Hampshire.

3. Waterville Campground, Waterville Valley

03215, WATERVL VLY, NH 03215, USA
Yelp/Cathy D.
This spot is a great base if you want to explore the Pemigewasset Wilderness - just don't expect any frills. It's in a thick forest and has only basic restroom facilities. It's one of the most secluded New Hampshire campgrounds.

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4. 13 Falls Tentsite, Lincoln

Franconia Brook Trail, Lincoln, NH, USA
Ian E. Muller/Google
This very rustic AMC tent site is located in the Pemigewasset Wilderness Area, at the junction of Franconia Brook Trail, Lincoln Brook Trail, and Twin Brook Trail. As you can imagine, that makes it a perfect basecamp for hiking adventures -- and it takes a good bit of hiking to get to it, so this is definitely not car camping -- and you'll need to be prepared to purify your water.

5. Pillsbury State Park, Washington

100 Clemac Trail, Washington, NH 03280, USA
David Antuono/Google
This lush campground is heavily wooded, and you're very likely to hear the call of the loons on its ponds through the trees as you fall asleep. It has pit toilets but not much in the way of other amenities - so it's a perfect place to get away from it all.

See what it’s like to paddle and pedal in this beautiful park:

6. Passaconaway Campground, Albany

Albany Service Center, 1351 NH-16, Albany, NH 03818, USA
Yelp/Luke P.
Despite the fact that it isn't far from all the tourist attractions of Conway, this campground is quite rustic. It doesn't take reservations, so it's perfect for a last-minute weekend getaway.

7. Hermit Lake Shelters, Mount Washington

Tuckerman Ravine Trail, New Hampshire 03846, USA
Flickr/gthor
If you're climbing Mount Washington, these AMC shelters are the place to stop. You'll need to hike there, and while you'll find shelters, running water, and flush toilets, you'll need to carry in all your supplies on your back.

Have you been to any of these secluded campgrounds in New Hampshire? Where’s your favorite place to get away from it all in New Hampshire? Let us know in the comments. Meanwhile, check out some of the highest-rated camping spots in New Hampshire.

Need new camping gear? Take a look at the amazing selection of camping equipment from REI.

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More to Explore

The Natural Beauty of New Hampshire

William Suphan | April 10, 2023

What are the most incredible natural attractions in New Hampshire?

The most incredible natural attractions in New Hampshire include:

  • Thompson Falls. This is a hidden waterfall about a mile from Wildcat Mountain and it is simply gorgeous and well worth seeking out.
  • Jenness Stae Beach. This stunning beach has fine sand, wonderful waves, and magnificent ocean views that you’ll want to soak in all day.
  • Pemigewasset Wilderness Area. This is 45,000 acres of rugged, remote wilderness and you won’t ever forget the views here.
  • Lakes of the Clouds. This area resembles the highlands of Scotland with mossy stones and lovely lakes at an elevation of 5,000 feet.

Discover more about the most incredible natural attractions in New Hampshire. 

What are some unique natural wonders in New Hampshire?

Unique natural wonders in New Hampshire include:

  • The Flume Gorge in Franconia Notch State Park. Locals love to come here to wander in this 200-million-year-old gorge that is 800 feet deep.
  • Arethusa Falls in the White Mountains. This is one of the tallest waterfalls in the state at 140 feet tall and is simply awe-inspiring. 
  • Emerald Pool in Chatham. The clear, green waters truly do look like the surface of a polished emerald and it’s a lovely swimming hole.
  • Sculpture Rocks Natural Area in Groton. Otherworldly, curved, smooth rocks are divided by pristine pools in this intriguing natural area.

Learn more about unique natural wonders in New Hampshire. 

What are the most relaxing nature spots in New Hampshire?

The most relaxing nature spots in New Hampshire include:

  • Coliseum Falls. These are a series of small waterfalls whose sounds will soothe you and the beauty of the area will surprise you.
  • White Mountains Overlook in Woodstock. If you’re driving in this area, make sure to stop here and take in the absolutely gorgeous view.
  • The North Hampton Seacoast. Sit near the rocky seashore and watch the waves course through all the beautiful rocks.
  • Ossipee Lake Natural Area. This is a wonderful place to take a kayak and paddle along at a leisurely pace.

Find out more about the most relaxing nature spots in New Hampshire. 

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