Velvet Rocks Shelter
02 reviewsVelvet Rocks Shelter
$0.00 - $0.00 / 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
No fees are required for camping.
Share this campground
USFSProvider
About this campground
Tucked away in the heart of the White Mountain National Forest, Velvet Rocks Shelter offers adventurous souls a genuine backcountry experience just 1.2 miles along the scenic Velvet Rocks Trail. This rustic haven combines the charm of a traditional trail shelter with the freedom of dispersed camping, providing weary hikers with a simple roof overhead and space to pitch tents under towering trees. With its basic amenities including a nearby privy, this unpretentious site serves as the perfect basecamp for those seeking an authentic connection with nature—whether you're pausing for a night on a longer trek or escaping for a weekend of woodland solitude.
The campground is a dispersed camping site with basic shelter provided.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal transformation of the White Mountains at Velvet Rocks, where each season paints the forest in stunning new colors. Winter transforms the shelter into a snow-dusted retreat, with crisp temperatures averaging around 20°F—perfect for those who embrace the quiet beauty of a frozen forest. As spring melts into summer, the campsite awakens with warmth and life, offering pleasant days with temperatures climbing to a comfortable 77°F. The ever-changing mountain weather adds an element of adventure to every visit, reminding campers why proper gear and preparation are essential companions on this journey.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the pristine wilderness of an upper elevation forest, where ancient trees create a natural cathedral around the Velvet Rocks Shelter. The trail-side location offers hikers convenient access while maintaining that coveted sense of seclusion that only the deep woods can provide. A water source flows nearby, though wise campers know to carry backup supplies during the drier months when mountain streams can run low. The surrounding landscape showcases the raw beauty of New England's highlands, where moss-covered rocks and whispering pines create an ever-changing tapestry of textures and sounds.
Geological RegionSet within the legendary White Mountain National Forest, Velvet Rocks Shelter sits amidst one of New England's most treasured landscapes. This protected wilderness encompasses rolling forests and winding trails that have drawn outdoor enthusiasts for generations. The area's rich ecosystem supports diverse wildlife and plant communities, while the network of trails offers endless opportunities for exploration. Here, the ancient mountains tell their story through weathered granite peaks and verdant valleys, creating a backdrop that transforms a simple camping trip into an unforgettable journey through one of America's most beloved natural playgrounds.
Campsite details
Sites SizeThe area has a clearing suitable for tents, as confirmed by user reviews.
Sites PrivacyUser reviews suggest the site is dispersed, with no detailed information on privacy levels.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesThe site is ideal for those looking for a simple and rustic camping experience without amenities. The clearing provides space for tent setups.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
No specific limits indicated.
Guests Allowed Per Site
No specified limit.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe site contains a main shelter with a big clearing for tents. It is dispersed, meaning individual spots are not specifically numbered or developed.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsNot applicable as no reservations are required.
Walk-in AvailabilityFully available on a first-come, first-served basis; no reservations required.
Cancellation PolicyNot applicable as no reservations are required.
Activities you can enjoy
Velvet Rocks Shelter offers a rustic camping experience in the White Mountain National Forest. Activities revolve around hiking and utilizing the shelter.
Hiking
The shelter is located on the Velvet Rocks Trail, 1.2 miles from the western terminus near NH Rte 120. User reviews indicate that the hike to the shelter from Hanover is not overly strenuous.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
Hazards
General hazardsWater can become unreliable during dry months, and the privy is some distance from the shelter according to user reviews.
Weather forecast
64
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 53%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 2.6 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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
Good to know
Peak season datesNot explicitly stated.
Trash and recyclingNo information provided about trash or recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresWater is available along the loop trail but is unreliable in dry months.
Common complaintsUsers noted that the shelter is small and the privy is located far from the main area. Maintenance could be improved.
Campground Map
Driving directionsThe Velvet Rocks Shelter is located on the Velvet Rocks Trail 1.2 miles from the official western terminus of the trail near NH Rte 120 and Chase Field House in Hanover.
The campground is accessible via the Velvet Rocks Trail, which is 1.2 miles from the western terminus near NH Route 120 and Chase Field House. There is no mention of seasonal closures, but there may be navigation challenges due to its dispersed and natural setting.Nearby places
Hanover, NH is the nearest city
no other cities and distances are mentioned.
Camper Reviews
0.0
2 reviews
Velvet Rocks Shelter has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews generally appreciate the shelter, highlighting its utility during rain or storms and the availability of space for tents.
Review Summaries
Based on 2 reviews
What Campers Love
Users mention that Velvet Rocks Shelter is useful in adverse weather conditions, with one reviewer calling it 'heaven in the rain or a storm.' Another noted the 'big clearing for tents' and found the...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
A user noted that the shelter is a bit off the trail, and the privy is even farther away.
Based on 2 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
It is recommended to plan for unreliable water access during dry months and to prepare for the hike, which is manageable but slightly off the trail.
Based on 2 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Needs some TLC but can be heaven in the rain or a storm.' - Deb Ing
2. 'The shelter was small but there was plenty of room for tents.' - Ben Guegold
Based on 2 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Users have noted the shelter itself, a small size, and the surrounding clearing for tents. No specific site numbers were provided.
Based on 2 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025