Dry River Shelter #3
4.4955 reviewsDry River Shelter #3
$25.00 - $25.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
"Users reviews indicate $25 per night for a no amenities site".
About this campground
Tucked away in the heart of the White Mountain wilderness, Dry River Shelter #3 offers adventurous souls a unique backcountry experience with thoughtful accessibility features. This secluded mountain refuge provides a perfect balance between remote wilderness immersion and inclusive design, welcoming hikers of all abilities to experience the raw beauty of New Hampshire's high country.
Dry River Shelter #3 offers a primitive camping experience along the Dry River Trail.
Historical SignificanceThe Dry River valley has long served as a corridor through the White Mountains, first used by Native American tribes and later by early European settlers. This particular shelter stands as part of the Appalachian Mountain Club's historic network of backcountry huts and shelters, continuing a century-old tradition of providing refuge to mountain travelers. The accessible design represents a modern evolution of this legacy, ensuring the wilderness experience remains available to all adventurers.
Weather and SeasonsThe shelter experiences the dynamic weather patterns typical of the White Mountains, where conditions can shift dramatically throughout the day. Summer brings warm days perfect for hiking, though afternoon thunderstorms are common. Fall transforms the surrounding forest into a tapestry of gold and crimson, while winter blankets the area in deep snow, creating a pristine wonderland for experienced winter adventurers. Spring arrives late at this elevation, often not until May, bringing wildflowers and rushing streams from snowmelt.
ElevationPerched at a moderate elevation in the Dry River valley, the shelter occupies a strategic position that offers protection from harsh alpine weather while still providing access to higher peaks. The location strikes an ideal balance - high enough to escape the summer heat and humidity of the valleys below, yet sheltered enough to avoid the extreme conditions found above treeline.
Natural Features and ScenerySurrounded by the pristine wilderness of the White Mountain National Forest, the shelter sits amid a stunning landscape of ancient hardwood and evergreen forests. Towering white pines and paper birches frame distant mountain views, while the nearby Dry River creates a soothing soundtrack with its cascading waters. The area bursts with biodiversity - from delicate woodland wildflowers to occasional moose sightings, offering endless natural wonders for observant visitors.
Geological RegionThe White Mountain National Forest encompasses some of the most dramatic and geologically fascinating terrain in the northeastern United States. This ancient mountain range, carved by glaciers and shaped by millions of years of erosion, features exposed granite peaks, deep U-shaped valleys, and cascading waterfalls. The Dry River valley itself showcases classic glacial geology, with polished rock faces and erratic boulders telling the story of ice ages past.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are described for Dry River Shelter #3.
Sites SizeThe shelter can accommodate up to eight people.
Sites PrivacyAs a remote shelter located deep in the wilderness, the site offers significant privacy.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended Campsites"For larger rigs Site 22 and 17 has been mentionable
Best Campsitesnull
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Null
Check-out
Null
Guests Allowed Per Site
"8 guests according to authoritative reviews"
Groups
Group camping is not available at this shelter.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutnull
Open and Closed Season"null"
Reservation Platforms"null"
Walk-in Availabilitynull
Cancellation Policy"null"
Amenities available
Fire rings
Activities you can enjoy
The activities at Dry River Shelter #3 are centered around hiking due to its remote location, which is close to the treeline and alpine zone near Mt. Washington.
Hiking
The shelter is located 6.3 miles along the Dry River Trail, making it ideal for day hikes. It's also approximately 2.5 miles from the treeline and the Alpine zone south of Mt. Washington.Winter Activities
There is no information provided about winter activities.Water Sports
There is no mention of non-motorized water sports.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- null
- Quiet hours are null
Hazards
General hazards""Safety Bear Awareness"
Active alerts"null
Weather forecast
59
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 70%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 8.8 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
null
Good to know
Peak season dates"null"
Trash and recyclingThere is no mention of trash or recycling facilities being available at this remote site.
Proximity to water featuresnull
Common complaints"Highway Noise from 302
Host "null"
Campground Map
Driving directions"6.3 miles along the Dry River Trail from Rt. 302"
""Accessibility from Rt. 302"Nearby places
"Town of Bartlett (approximately X miles and X minutes)"
Nearby supplies
"A grocery and camping supply store lies 2 miles south."
Camper Reviews
4.5
55 reviews
Dry River Shelter #3 is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews for Dry River Shelter #3 primarily describe its remoteness, lack of amenities, and proximity to hiking trails. Some users appreciate the peaceful setting and opportunity to disconnect, while others mention challenges like the lack of facilities.
Review Summaries
Based on 55 reviews
What Campers Love
Users often highlight the shelter's remote location, proximity to excellent hiking, and peaceful surroundings. "6.3 miles along the Dry River Trail from Rt. 302 will bring you to one of the more...
Based on 55 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include the lack of restrooms, potable water, and cell service. One user noted, "There is no cell service, so you're really disconnected from the world." Another added that there...
Based on 55 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing all necessary supplies, including drinking water and a means to dispose of waste, due to the lack of provided amenities. The remote location makes it essential to plan...
Based on 55 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Seasonal variations are not explicitly reviewed, but the shelter's remote location and lack of heating suggest it is better suited for warmer weather.
Based on 55 reviewsCamper Quotes
"6.3 miles along the Dry River Trail from Rt. 302 will bring you to one of the more remote shelters." - Official Source. "There is no cell service, so you're really disconnected from the world!" -...
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Site-Specific Reviews
No specific reviews for individual sites at Dry River Shelter #3 are available.
Based on 55 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews address accessibility features for this site.
Based on 55 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are not mentioned in the reviews or descriptions.
Based on 55 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025