Nestled in the heart of Bethlehem, NH, Gale River Campground offers a unique and primitive camping experience within the scenic White Mountain National Forest. This campground is ideal for those seeking a tranquil escape surrounded by nature. With no modern amenities like water, toilets, or electricity, Gale River Campground provides a true back-to-basics camping adventure.
The campground features dispersed roadside camping spots, some of which are walk-in only, while others can accommodate small RVs or trailers. The area is perfect for hiking enthusiasts, with the Gale River Trail offering breathtaking views and a challenging yet rewarding experience. Additionally, the campground loop is a favorite among cyclists, providing a peaceful ride through the forest.
Please note that Gale River Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis, and it tends to fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. It's essential to plan ahead and arrive early to secure a spot. As there is no campground host, visitors should be prepared to handle emergencies independently, using 911 if necessary.
Customer feedback highlights the charm and appeal of Gale River Campground:
For those who appreciate the beauty of untouched nature and the simplicity of primitive camping, Gale River Campground is a must-visit destination. Whether you're hiking, biking, or simply enjoying the peace and quiet, this campground offers an unforgettable outdoor experience.
Hiking
Tent sites
Good for kids
This was one of our favorite places. We loved the primitive and private camp spot. Make sure that you plan ahead to get a spot because it was all full and busy. We hiked the gale river trail which was amazing. It is also a wonderful place to ride bikes around the loop of the campground.
Understand that this is dispersed roadside camping in a National Forest and there are NO services provided. That means NO water, NO toilets, NO trash collection (pack in and pack out) and of course NO electric. There is NO host so if you have a problem you will have to use 911 (if you have a cell signal) to see if a local first responder shows up. Plenty of people on the loop road who are accessing the trailheads off the road. Some campsites are walk in only others might take a small rv or trailer. If you are still interested then it's a really nice spot.
Nice dispersed first come first serve camping area. Sites are very spaced out almost like a quarter of a mile between each site. The sites each have a fire ring. I got there on a Monday morning and we got very lucky that there was one spot open all of the other spots were full. Definitely don't put all your marbles in there being a site open. There are only 11 sites available.
Nice well spaced camp sites, good road going in. A little hard to back in our 30ft C class but looks like smaller and tent camping is more conducive. Hard to turn around at end of drive. It fit our needs for the night.
Great place if you can find a site! I do wish people would read the signs. Leaving human waste in the site is beyond my ability to understand, but people still do it for some reason.