Liberty Springs Tent Site

About

Liberty Springs Tent Site occupies a stunning location on Mt. Liberty in New Hampshire's White Mountain National Forest, situated directly along the Appalachian Trail at the threshold of the Franconia Ridge. Built and maintained by the Appalachian Mountain Club since the 1970s, this backcountry site pioneered the tent platform model that replaced aging shelters to minimize environmental impact while providing a more dispersed camping experience. The site offers seven single tent pads and three double tent pads capable of accommodating larger groups. Facilities include a composting privy, a dishwashing station, and metal food storage boxes for bear protection. Water is available from an excellent spring but requires filtering or treatment before drinking. There are no fire rings or picnic tables. A seasonal AMC caretaker lives on-site from Memorial Day through Columbus Day, educating campers about backcountry etiquette, maintaining the composting toilet, and performing trail work. Outside this period, the site operates on a self-service basis with cash payment boxes. As of May 1, 2026, all overnight campers must store food and scented items in an IGBC-certified bear canister within the adjacent Pemigewasset Wilderness.

Directions

From the Liberty Spring Trail trailhead at Franconia Notch, hike approximately 2.9 miles on the Liberty Spring Trail (part of the Appalachian Trail) to reach the tent site. The site is located 0.3 miles below the junction with the Franconia Ridge Trail.