Is New Hampshire’s Drinking Water Safe

Let me lay it down for you, raw and unfiltered—because unlike the water coming out of some taps in New Hampshire, this is clean truth. If you’re still operating under the soft, delusional fantasy that your state or local water utility has your best interest at heart, wake up. This isn’t Mayberry. This is 2025. And while the powers-that-be smile and issue glossy PDFs about “acceptable levels” of PFAS and “minimal risk” of lead contamination, real survivalists know the only person responsible for keeping your water safe—is you.

Let’s talk New Hampshire. Granite State. Rugged, resilient, “Live Free or Die” territory, right? Well, tell that to the folks in Merrimack, Litchfield, and other parts of southern NH, where PFAS—those forever chemicals that don’t break down, mess with your hormones, and spike your cancer risks—have leeched into the water table. Ever heard of Saint-Gobain? That’s the industrial giant whose operations poisoned the groundwater and then shrugged when families started getting sick.

And it’s not just PFAS. You’ve got old infrastructure in small towns all over the state, corroding pipes leaching lead, and ineffective testing that might catch contamination weeks or months too late. Arsenic in well water in northern New Hampshire? Yeah, that’s real. Over 40% of private wells in NH exceed the EPA’s safety limit for arsenic. And don’t count on anyone telling you that unless you’re reading the fine print buried in some obscure environmental health report.

So no, New Hampshire’s drinking water isn’t safe—not by a long shot. If you’re relying on tap water without backup systems, filtration strategies, or emergency know-how, you’re not just unprepared. You’re endangering yourself and your family.

Time to get educated. Here’s your crash course in real water survival. I’m giving you 15 Water Filtration Survival Skills every free-thinking person in New Hampshire (or anywhere) needs to master, and 3 DIY hacks that’ll keep you alive when the system collapses—or just screws you over again.


15 Water Filtration Survival Skills Every Granite Stater Must Know

1. Identify local water sources.
If you can’t name five drinkable natural water sources within a 10-mile radius of your home, you’re already losing.

2. Learn to use a portable water filter.
LifeStraw, Sawyer Mini, Katadyn—get one, test it, and carry it with you. Knowing how it actually works in field conditions matters.

3. Build a DIY slow sand filter.
Layer gravel, sand, and charcoal in a barrel. It’s slow but removes bacteria and particles when done right.

4. Boil like your life depends on it—because it does.
Rolling boil for a full minute (three at altitude). Don’t cut corners. Giardia and cryptosporidium don’t forgive ignorance.

5. Purify with bleach.
Use unscented household bleach—eight drops per gallon, stir and wait 30 minutes. Too little, it’s useless. Too much, you poison yourself.

6. Know your charcoal.
Activated charcoal absorbs organic contaminants, pesticides, and some chemicals. Learn how to make your own from hardwood, bake it, crush it.

7. Use UV light to kill pathogens.
Solar disinfection (SODIS) with clear PET bottles and six hours of direct sunlight? Not perfect, but better than raw lake water.

8. Master iodine purification.
Two percent tincture, five drops per quart. Wait at least 30 minutes. Works in emergencies—especially on viral contaminants.

9. Build a solar still.
Dig a hole, add wet vegetation, a container, and cover with plastic sheeting. Evaporation will save your life in dry zones.

10. Distill rainwater.
Catch it, boil it, collect the steam. Keeps most metals and chemicals out—especially arsenic from old well pipes.

11. Know how to read a water test strip.
Don’t guess. Carry strips to test for lead, bacteria, nitrates, and more. Don’t trust clear water—it can still be deadly.

12. Use a ceramic filter.
These slow-flow filters trap bacteria and sediment. Pair with charcoal for chemical filtration. Clean regularly to prevent clogging.

13. DIY biosand filter for long-term setups.
Effective, reusable, and sustainable—if you layer it right and clean it correctly. Can last for years if maintained.

14. Pre-filter with cloth.
Before you boil or chemically treat, filter out sediment with a bandana or old T-shirt. Reduces clogging and improves clarity.

15. Understand the limitations.
No filter is perfect. Know what your filter removes—and what it doesn’t. PFAS? Most commercial filters don’t touch it. Don’t be lazy—do the research.


3 DIY Survival Drinking Water Hacks That Work When All Else Fails

Hack #1: Emergency Charcoal-Filter Bottle
Take a plastic bottle, cut off the bottom, fill with layers—cloth, charcoal (crushed), sand, then gravel. Pour water in top, collect clean water at the bottom. It won’t remove all chemicals, but it’ll get rid of most particulates and microbes.

Hack #2: Pine Tree Water Collector
Wrap a plastic bag around a leafy pine branch in the sun. The tree releases moisture via transpiration. After a few hours, you’ll have drinkable water condensed in the bag. Slow, but pure. Perfect for the NH woods.

Hack #3: Boil Water in a Leaf or Bark Container
No metal pot? No problem. Use thick bark or large green leaves to hold water over a fire’s coals—not flames—and bring it to a boil. It takes finesse, but it’ll purify water without high-tech gear.


So is New Hampshire’s drinking water safe?

You already know the answer. No, it’s not. Not by any standard a sane, cautious, prepared person should accept. And if the day comes when the grid fails, the trucks stop running, or your utility fails to notify you (again) of some mysterious contaminant in your pipes, you’ll be the one standing between sickness and survival. Not your mayor. Not DES. Not the EPA.

Be angry. Be informed. But above all—be ready.

Because clean water isn’t a right in the world we live in today. It’s a skill. And you better treat it like your life depends on it—because it does.

Survival in the Wild: New Hampshire’s Most Dangerous Hiking Trails Could Be Your Last Hike

Survival in the Wild: New Hampshire’s Most Dangerous Hiking Trails Could Be Your Last Hike

Let me tell you something, friend—when you lace up your boots and step onto a trail in the White Mountains, you’re not just going for a walk in the woods. You’re entering a living, breathing wilderness that doesn’t care how many miles you logged last summer, how new your pack is, or how many freeze-dried meals you packed. It’s beautiful, yes. It’s humbling, absolutely. But above all—it’s unforgiving.

I’ve spent decades roaming these trails, training myself in bushcraft, emergency medicine, weather prediction, and the mental grit it takes to come out of a tough situation alive. You don’t survive out here by chance. You survive because you prepared for the worst. And in New Hampshire’s backcountry, the “worst” can come at you fast—storms, injuries, wild animals, exhaustion, hypothermia. Hell, even the trail itself can turn on you.

Today, I’m giving you two things: a wake-up call and a list. A wake-up call to remind you that nature is not your playground—it’s your proving ground. And a list of the Top 20 Most Dangerous (and awe-inspiring) Hiking Trails in New Hampshire, because knowledge is the first step to survival.


⚠️ A Word to the Wise

Every year, hikers are rescued—some barely alive—from these very trails. Others aren’t so lucky. Don’t be one of them.

Take this seriously. Pack the Ten Essentials. Study topographic maps. Check your ego at the trailhead. Monitor the weather like your life depends on it—because out here, it does.


🔥 Top 20 Dangerous Hiking Trails in New Hampshire (for the Brave and Prepared)

Hiking Trails: New Hampshire Hiking

These trails aren’t for casual hikers with a granola bar and a cell phone. They’re for seasoned trekkers and survivalists who understand the risks and respect the mountains.

1. Huntington Ravine Trail (Mt. Washington)

Technical climbing. Loose rock. Sheer drop-offs. A misstep can be fatal. Not for the faint of heart—or the ill-equipped.

2. Knife Edge – Mt. Lafayette via Franconia Ridge

Exposed, narrow, and windy. You’re walking a tightrope with incredible views and serious danger on both sides.

3. Great Gulf Trail (Mt. Washington)

It’s the least traveled but most treacherous approach to Washington. Steep, remote, and often washed out. True wilderness.

4. Bonds Traverse

A grueling 20+ mile hike with multiple peaks and few bailout options. Be ready to camp or suffer the consequences.

5. Mt. Adams via King Ravine

Steep boulder fields and remote terrain. This is where gear gets tested—and so does your will to finish.

6. Wildcat Ridge Trail

Unrelenting ups and downs with exposed ledges. In winter? It becomes a death trap for the unprepared.

7. Mahoosuc Notch

Known as the most difficult mile on the Appalachian Trail. It’s not an exaggeration—think rock scrambling with a pack and no room for error.

8. Carter-Moriah Range

Beautiful, sure, but long and brutal with difficult footing. Easy to lose daylight, and the ridge offers little protection.

9. Kinsman Ridge Trail

Slippery when wet, snow-covered in October, and riddled with false summits. It eats energy and morale fast.

10. Presidential Traverse

Over 20 miles of exposed alpine terrain, often above treeline. A sudden storm here is not just inconvenient—it can be deadly.

11. Mt. Isolation via Rocky Branch Trail

Isolation is right—this one’s remote, wet, and muddy. Creek crossings can turn treacherous with rainfall.

12. Mount Chocorua via Liberty Trail

Iconic peak, brutal exposure. Fast weather shifts can turn your summit shot into a survival situation.

13. Osceola via Tripoli Road

A winter challenge that’s often underestimated. Snowshoes, microspikes, and navigation skills mandatory.

14. Mt. Jefferson via Caps Ridge Trail

Scrambling required, often with exposure. Rain and wind make this a no-go for anyone with common sense.

15. Mount Madison via Watson Path

Poorly marked, wicked steep, and dangerous when wet or icy. The summit can trick you into thinking you’re close—don’t fall for it.

16. Cannon Mountain via Hi-Cannon Trail

Steep ladders, narrow ledges, and loose rock. Technical and risky, especially with a heavy pack.

17. Mt. Moosilauke via Beaver Brook Trail

Waterfalls make for slick rocks and steep climbing. One slip, and you’re in for more than just a bruised ego.

18. South Twin via Galehead

A backbreaker with long stretches between water sources. Remote and energy-sapping.

19. Mount Passaconaway via Dicey’s Mill

Quiet but deceptive. The steepest parts hit when you’re tired. And winter turns it into a vertical ice luge.

20. Mt. Carrigain via Signal Ridge

One of the most beautiful summits, but the ridge gets blasted by wind and fog. Easy to lose bearings near the top.


🎒 Survivalist’s Packing List for New Hampshire’s Backcountry

You want to hit these trails? Then pack like your life depends on it. Because it does.

  • Map & Compass (and know how to use them)
  • Satellite communicator or Personal Locator Beacon (PLB)
  • Layered clothing for sudden weather shifts (no cotton—ever)
  • Firestarter & waterproof matches
  • Knife and multitool
  • Emergency bivvy or shelter
  • Headlamp with extra batteries
  • High-calorie food & backup rations
  • Water purification (tablets AND a filter)
  • First-aid kit with trauma supplies
  • Microspikes, crampons, or snowshoes (season-dependent)
  • Rope or paracord
  • Whistle and signaling mirror

🧭 Final Thoughts from a Lifelong Prepper

If you’re reading this and thinking, “Man, that sounds extreme,” then maybe these trails aren’t for you—yet. And that’s okay. Work your way up. Learn the land. Respect the terrain. Because hiking in New Hampshire isn’t just about the miles—it’s about the mindset.

The wilderness out here wants to test you. It doesn’t care about your intentions. It only respects preparation, grit, and humility. Don’t confuse your enthusiasm for ability. Be smart. Be ready. And if you do decide to take on one of these trails—make sure someone knows where you’re going. Always.

Because the mountain doesn’t give second chances.


Now go prep, train, and hike hard. But hike smart. The Granite State doesn’t forgive mistakes.

The Ultimate List of Survival Foods You Should Grow Yourself

The Ultimate List of Survival Foods You Should Grow Yourself

(Told by a Fed-Up, No-Nonsense Survivalist)

Listen up. If you think the grocery store is your safety net, you’re already screwed. This isn’t a joke and it sure as hell ain’t a game. When the trucks stop rolling, the power goes out, or the world goes sideways — your fancy apps and two-day shipping won’t feed you.

You want to survive? You GROW your food.

I’m not talking about pretty little herb gardens. I’m talking calorie-dense, nutrient-rich, survival-grade crops that’ll keep you and your family alive when the rest of the neighborhood is fighting over moldy cans of beans.

Here’s the no-BS list of survival foods you should be growing RIGHT NOW — and if you’re not, then get off your butt and get planting.


🔥 The Survival Foods You NEED To Grow

  1. Potatoes
    These starchy workhorses are loaded with carbs and keep well in a root cellar. Grow them in buckets, raised beds, whatever you’ve got. Easy, fast, and reliable.
  2. Beans (Pole & Bush)
    High in protein, they’re your best friend when meat isn’t an option. They also fix nitrogen in the soil — which means better yields overall.
  3. Corn
    Don’t grow sweet corn for fun. Grow dent or flint corn — the kind you can dry and grind into meal. This is real survival food.
  4. Winter Squash
    Long shelf life. Heavy on calories. Butternut, acorn, spaghetti — doesn’t matter. They’ll keep through winter if stored right.
  5. Garlic
    Not just for flavor. Garlic is antibacterial, antifungal, and boosts immunity. Plus, it stores for months.
  6. Onions
    Adds depth to every meal, and it’s another strong natural antibiotic. Plant a lot — they go quick.
  7. Carrots
    Vitamin A bombs. Easy to grow, easy to store, and great for morale. Don’t underestimate morale food.
  8. Kale and Collards
    Leafy greens that don’t quit. They’ll grow in frost and keep producing for weeks. Nutrient-rich and damn tough.
  9. Cabbage
    Eat it raw, cooked, or ferment it into sauerkraut for gut health. Stores well and produces big.
  10. Tomatoes (Paste Types)
    Forget salad tomatoes. Grow Roma or San Marzano. They’re meaty, great for sauces, and can be preserved easily.
  11. Peppers
    Bell or hot, they’re loaded with vitamin C and they dehydrate well. Hot peppers also help preserve food and boost metabolism.
  12. Sweet Potatoes
    Grow the greens and the tubers. High in nutrients, hardy in poor soil, and sweet enough to break up food boredom.
  13. Zucchini
    One plant can feed a neighborhood. You’ll get tired of zucchini before it stops producing.
  14. Turnips
    Fast-growing and reliable. The roots feed you, the greens feed your livestock or compost. Win-win.
  15. Herbs (Basil, Thyme, Oregano)
    Not just flavor. Many herbs have medicinal benefits, and let’s be honest — bland food kills morale faster than cold weather.

🧠 Top 15 Survival Skills You Better Learn Yesterday

  1. Canning and Preservation
    If you can’t store it, you’re wasting harvest. Learn water bath and pressure canning NOW.
  2. Seed Saving
    No seed = no food next season. Learn to save and store seeds properly.
  3. Composting
    Fertilizer won’t fall from the sky. Compost everything — food scraps, manure, leaves.
  4. Irrigation Setup
    No water = dead garden. Build a rain catchment system or gravity-fed drip line.
  5. Crop Rotation
    Don’t plant the same thing in the same spot. It destroys your soil.
  6. Soil Building
    Healthy soil is LIFE. Use compost, mulch, manure, and worm castings.
  7. Foraging
    Know what edible weeds and wild plants grow near you — just in case your garden fails.
  8. Basic First Aid
    What’s that got to do with food? A LOT when you slice your hand harvesting cabbage in a blackout.
  9. DIY Pest Control
    No pesticides? Learn natural methods — neem oil, diatomaceous earth, companion planting.
  10. Food Dehydration
    Dry fruits, veggies, and meats. Lightweight, long-lasting survival food.
  11. Root Cellar Building
    Store food the old-school way — underground and temperature-stable.
  12. Cooking Without Power
    Solar oven, rocket stove, open fire. Know them all.
  13. Water Purification
    Rainwater + bacteria = diarrhea. Filter it, boil it, or don’t drink it.
  14. Tool Maintenance
    A broken hoe doesn’t feed you. Learn how to fix and sharpen your gear.
  15. Animal Husbandry (Bonus)
    Chickens, rabbits, goats — they add meat and manure to your homestead. Even if you start small.

🛠️ 3 DIY Survival Hacks You’ll Thank Me For Later

  1. 5-Gallon Bucket Potato Tower
    No space? No problem. Drill drainage holes in a 5-gallon bucket. Plant seed potatoes at the bottom, keep adding soil as they grow. Harvest a full bucket of potatoes in a few months.
  2. Homemade Self-Watering Containers
    Take two buckets. One for the water reservoir, one with soil and a wicking system. Perfect for growing during hot months or if water is limited.
  3. Eggshell Calcium Boost
    Dry and crush eggshells, sprinkle them in your garden beds. It adds calcium, keeps slugs away, and helps prevent blossom-end rot in tomatoes.

Final Word from a Tired, Angry Survivalist

Look — I don’t care who you voted for. I don’t care how many TikToks you’ve watched about prepping. If you don’t get serious and start growing your own food, you’re gambling with your life.

The system is fragile. The soil is ready. The question is — are you?

You don’t need land, money, or even experience. You need the will to survive, some dirt, and the guts to get started.

Start now. Not tomorrow. Not when things “calm down.”
Because when it all goes dark — those who grow, eat.
And those who wait… don’t.

The Best States to Grow a Survival Garden

(Told Straight by Someone Who Actually Grows Their Own Damn Food)

Let’s cut the fluff. If you’re thinking about survival gardening, your location matters — a lot. You don’t want to be stuck trying to grow tomatoes in 100-degree desert heat or watching your crops rot from nonstop rain in the Pacific Northwest. You need a place where the soil is good, the growing season is long, and the government leaves you alone.

So here it is — the hard truth about the best states to grow a survival garden. I’m talking about places where you can grow enough food to survive, thrive, and stick it to the system if things go sideways.


1. Tennessee

You want rich soil? You want rain? You want a long growing season and low land prices? Tennessee checks all the boxes. Mild winters, plenty of sunshine, and you can grow almost everything here — beans, corn, squash, tomatoes, leafy greens, potatoes, fruit trees. The laws are also favorable to homesteaders. Not too many restrictions, and folks mind their own business.


2. Missouri

The Ozarks are a survivalist’s dream. Tons of natural resources, plenty of fresh water, and excellent soil. Plus, land is still affordable if you know where to look. You can grow food, raise animals, and build off-grid without some HOA telling you your solar panels are “unsightly.” It’s no wonder so many preppers are quietly heading this way.


3. North Carolina

Western North Carolina especially. Good elevation, great soil, and a long enough growing season to plant more than one crop per year. You’ve got access to fresh water from mountain streams, and the climate isn’t brutal. It’s a solid blend of self-sufficiency potential and relative safety from extreme weather.


4. Kentucky

If you want underrated, this is it. Kentucky is quiet, lush, and has some of the best topsoil in the country. It’s perfect for growing survival staples like corn, beans, squash, and root veggies. There’s plenty of space, low taxes, and folks are generally self-reliant and leave you alone — exactly how we like it.


5. Texas (East Texas, specifically)

Forget West Texas unless you like growing dust. East Texas, though? It’s humid, green, and fertile. Long growing season, tons of water, and enough room to build a self-sustaining setup. The state itself has a strong “don’t tread on me” culture — and that counts for something when the grid goes down.


Final Word

You can prep all you want, but if you’re trying to grow food in a place where nothing grows, you’re wasting your time. Survival gardening isn’t just about planting seeds — it’s about being strategic, knowing your climate, and choosing a location where your garden will feed your family, not fail you when you need it most.

So stop scrolling and start planning. Because when the supply chain collapses, real security isn’t ammo — it’s potatoes.

Frozen Solid: Surviving the Coldest Winters in New Hampshire

Living in New Hampshire means dealing with a variety of natural disasters that can strike at any moment. Whether it’s the extreme cold of winter, the torrential rains of spring, or the occasional blizzard, we Granite Staters have learned that preparation is key. In a state as unpredictable as New Hampshire, being ready for any emergency can mean the difference between life and death. From building the right emergency kit to ensuring your home is fortified against the elements, here’s how New Hampshire residents are preparing for the worst that Mother Nature can throw at us.

1. Winter Storms and Blizzards

Let’s start with winter, which is probably the most well-known challenge in New Hampshire. With its long, harsh winters, snowstorms, and blizzards can easily leave roads impassable and power outages lasting for days. The first line of defense against a New Hampshire winter storm is a well-stocked emergency kit. Make sure you’ve got enough food, water, and other essential supplies to last for at least 72 hours.

  • Tip #1: Keep extra blankets, sleeping bags, and warm clothing on hand in case your heating system goes down. You might also want to have a wood stove or alternative heat source to keep your home warm.
  • Tip #2: Stock up on emergency food supplies such as canned goods, freeze-dried meals, and high-calorie snacks. Don’t forget about a manual can opener!
  • Tip #3: Ensure you have an emergency power source. A generator is a great investment, but if you can’t afford one, invest in a good supply of rechargeable batteries, solar-powered chargers, and power banks.

2. Flooding

New Hampshire has its share of rivers and streams, and during heavy rainstorms or the spring thaw, flooding can be a serious risk. The Merrimack and Connecticut Rivers, among others, have a history of flooding when storms hit or when the snowpack melts too quickly. If you live in a flood zone, it’s vital to be aware of evacuation routes and have a plan in place.

  • Tip #4: Install sump pumps in your basement and have backup power in case the electricity goes out. A flooded basement can cause irreversible damage if left unattended.
  • Tip #5: Elevate electrical appliances and items like important documents to higher ground. Consider waterproofing your basement if you live in a flood-prone area.

3. Tornadoes

While New Hampshire is not typically known for tornadoes, these vicious storms have been known to strike, particularly during the spring and summer months. Strong tornadoes are rare, but they can still cause significant damage.

  • Tip #6: Build a safe room or basement in your home where you can take shelter during a tornado. Make sure your family knows where to go and how to stay safe.
  • Tip #7: Invest in a NOAA weather radio with a battery backup. This way, you’ll always be informed of severe weather warnings.

4. Earthquakes

Earthquakes aren’t a daily concern in New Hampshire, but that doesn’t mean we’re immune. The state has experienced tremors in the past, and scientists believe the area is capable of more significant seismic activity in the future. Though rare, it’s always smart to be prepared.

  • Tip #8: Secure heavy furniture and appliances to the walls to prevent them from falling during an earthquake. Have an evacuation plan in place, and know where the safest areas are in your home.
  • Tip #9: Keep a stash of water and food that doesn’t require cooking or refrigeration in case utilities are disrupted.

5. Wildfires

With increasing temperatures and drier conditions, New Hampshire is beginning to see a rise in wildfires. While the risk is lower than in other parts of the country, we’ve had a few out-of-control blazes in recent years.

  • Tip #10: If you live near wooded areas, create defensible space around your home by clearing dead leaves, branches, and brush. Keep a hose, shovel, and rake nearby to help manage smaller fires.

6. Hurricanes and Tropical Storms

While New Hampshire is located far from the usual hurricane tracks, we are still vulnerable to the tail ends of major storms that make their way up the coast. These storms can bring heavy rains, high winds, and dangerous coastal flooding.

  • Tip #11: Keep your gutters clean and ensure that your property’s drainage system is functioning properly. Heavy rainfall can cause rapid flooding if there’s nowhere for the water to go.
  • Tip #12: Have a sturdy emergency kit on hand, especially if you live near the coast. Consider investing in storm shutters or plywood to protect your windows from high winds.

7. Severe Winter Cold

New Hampshire’s winters can get so cold that frostbite and hypothermia become a real risk. In some areas, temperatures can dip well below freezing for weeks at a time. It’s important to know how to stay warm and how to care for others in these extreme conditions.

  • Tip #13: Keep extra layers of clothing available, including insulated gloves, boots, and socks. A good winter coat and thermal underwear are lifesavers during long bouts of cold.
  • Tip #14: If you have elderly family members or neighbors, check in on them regularly. They’re more susceptible to the cold, and their homes may not be as well-insulated.

8. Food and Water Storage

New Hampshire’s varied weather conditions mean that emergencies can come in all seasons. Stocking up on food and water supplies is an absolute necessity, as grocery stores and other essential services may not be readily available during or after a natural disaster.

  • Tip #15: Store at least a two-week supply of non-perishable food and water. Don’t forget about pets or other animals—make sure you have enough food and water for them too.
  • Tip #16: Invest in high-quality water filters, as flooding can often contaminate local water supplies. Having a way to purify water from lakes or rivers could save your life in a worst-case scenario.

9. Communication Plans

During a disaster, communication can be challenging. Cell towers may go down, and landlines may be cut off. New Hampshire residents need to ensure they have a reliable means of communicating with family and emergency responders.

  • Tip #17: Establish a family emergency plan. Ensure everyone knows where to meet in the event of a disaster, and keep a list of emergency contacts, including out-of-state relatives.
  • Tip #18: Consider investing in satellite phones or two-way radios as a backup communication system. These can be life-saving if traditional cell networks fail.

10. Home Fortification

The state of New Hampshire can experience a variety of natural disasters, and it’s crucial to fortify your home against the elements. Whether it’s reinforcing your roof to withstand heavy snow, installing storm-resistant windows, or ensuring your foundation is strong enough to hold up during flooding, preparation starts with your home.

  • Tip #19: Keep your roof clear of snow and ice in the winter months. Ice dams can cause major water damage if left unchecked. Regularly check your roof’s condition and make necessary repairs before winter hits.

Conclusion

New Hampshire residents know that survival isn’t just about having a few canned goods and a flashlight. It’s about being prepared for any situation. From snowstorms to flooding, tornadoes, and hurricanes, the state’s weather can change on a dime, and it’s up to us to be ready for whatever comes our way.

Being prepared means staying vigilant, having the right supplies, and knowing how to react in an emergency. It’s about taking the time to create a plan, fortifying your home, and stocking up on essentials so that you can weather any storm that comes your way. Living in New Hampshire means facing the best and worst of nature’s fury, but with the right preparation, we’ll be ready for whatever the future holds.

CLICK HERE TO LEARN HOW TO SURVIVE A FAMINE

Survivalists’ Guide: 30 Best Campsites in New Hampshire for the Ultimate Prepper Experience

When you’re a prepper living in the rugged terrain of New Hampshire, you’re no stranger to the wild and untamed nature of the land. Whether you’re preparing for the worst-case scenario or just want to spend some time honing your survival skills, the Granite State offers some of the best campsites for survivalists. From dense forests to remote mountain ranges, New Hampshire is a goldmine for those who want to be off the grid and ready for anything. Below, we explore the 30 best camping sites for preppers in New Hampshire. These campsites are perfect for those who want to test their wilderness survival skills or just get away from it all while still being close enough to resources in case you need them.

CLICK HERE TO LEARN HOW TO SURVIVE A FAMINE

1. Crawford Notch State Park

Located in the White Mountains, Crawford Notch State Park is ideal for survivalists. The park’s rugged terrain offers ample opportunities for bushcraft, hunting, and fishing. If you’re looking for a spot to practice your fire-starting skills or to set up a temporary shelter, this is the place to do it. Nearby, you’ll find the Saco River, which is perfect for water purification experiments.

2. Franconia Notch State Park

Franconia Notch is home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes in New Hampshire. The park is surrounded by steep cliffs, dense woods, and plenty of wildlife. This site is perfect for advanced survivalists who want to experience challenging terrain. You’ll find abundant hiking trails, and the infamous “Old Man of the Mountain” memorial makes for an iconic backdrop.

3. White Mountain National Forest

As the largest national forest in New Hampshire, the White Mountain National Forest offers a massive area for preppers to explore and practice survival skills. There are countless trails, campsites, and remote areas where you can set up camp. The terrain includes everything from thick forests to high-altitude peaks. It’s the ideal location for prepping and practicing your navigation and shelter-building skills.

4. Moose Brook State Park

This park, located near Berlin, offers great access to the northern White Mountains. If you need a secluded area to hone your skills, Moose Brook offers quiet campgrounds, perfect for survivalists who want to practice stealth camping. There are ample fishing opportunities, and the nearby terrain provides plenty of challenges for testing your resourcefulness.

5. Mount Monadnock State Park

Known as one of the most climbed mountains in the world, Mount Monadnock is an excellent location for preppers looking to test their endurance. The summit provides an incredible vantage point over the surrounding forest, perfect for learning topographic map navigation. The park offers primitive campsites for those who want to stay off the beaten path.

6. Ellis River Campground

CLICK HERE TO LEARN HOW TO SURVIVE A FAMINE

Tucked away in the heart of the White Mountains, Ellis River Campground offers a secluded environment for those interested in primitive camping. With the Ellis River nearby, it’s a great location for testing water purification methods or practicing fishing for your food. The forest offers excellent opportunities for shelter building and wildlife tracking.

7. Lake Francis State Park

Lake Francis, in the northern part of the state, is known for its wild, unspoiled beauty. This park is remote enough that you’ll have to rely on your survival skills if you plan to go off-grid. The lake is ideal for water-based survival practice, and the surrounding woodlands are great for setting up an emergency camp.

8. Pawtuckaway State Park

Pawtuckaway State Park offers a variety of campsites that range from more developed to primitive. This diversity makes it perfect for preppers, as you can start with easy access and move to more challenging locations. With wooded trails, marshes, and a large pond, it’s an excellent location for wildlife identification and survival practices like fire-building and trapping.

9. Lost River Gorge and Boulder Caves

For those who want to practice survival skills in a unique location, Lost River Gorge offers a fascinating environment. The caves and gorge offer natural shelter opportunities, while the boulders can be used for rock climbing and testing your ability to navigate rough terrain. This is one of the best campsites for preppers who like to think outside the box.

10. Tuckerman Ravine

If you’re an experienced prepper looking to push your limits, Tuckerman Ravine on Mount Washington should be on your list. The area is challenging, and the weather can be brutal, but it’s a perfect place for advanced survivalists. The rugged terrain and rapidly changing weather conditions will test your resilience and ability to adapt in a real wilderness survival scenario.

11. Gorham Mountain Trail Camp

For preppers looking for high-altitude training, the Gorham Mountain Trail Camp is the place to go. Located in Acadia National Park, it’s the ideal spot for refining your wilderness navigation skills. The view from the summit provides a unique perspective of the land, while the area around the campsite offers multiple natural resources to practice with.

12. Kancamagus Highway

The Kancamagus Highway is more than just a scenic drive – it’s a prime location for camping. The area is rich in wildlife, and the surrounding forests make it perfect for bushcraft exercises. Preppers can test their ability to survive in diverse environments, from river crossings to dense woods, all while staying relatively close to the highway for easy extraction if necessary.

13. The Androscoggin River Campsites

For those interested in water-based survival skills, camping along the Androscoggin River offers plenty of opportunities. This river is not only a beautiful site but also a perfect location for practicing water purification and fishing techniques. You’ll also find dense woods where you can perfect your shelter-building skills.

14. Jenness State Beach Campground

For preppers looking to practice survival skills in a coastal environment, Jenness State Beach Campground offers a unique experience. With access to both saltwater and fresh water, this site is ideal for practicing coastal survival techniques, including fishing, foraging, and fire-starting.

15. Baker River Campground

Located near Rumney, the Baker River Campground is nestled along the river, providing an ideal environment for testing your bushcraft and survival skills. This location offers a mix of flat grounds, river access, and forested areas to practice building shelters and water purification. It’s remote enough to be a challenge but close enough to civilization if things go awry.

16. Wildcat Mountain

For more experienced preppers, Wildcat Mountain offers a rugged challenge. The terrain here is tough, with steep inclines and unpredictable weather, making it perfect for testing endurance and resourcefulness. There are plenty of wooded areas for setting up camp and practicing stealth tactics.

17. Sawyer Pond Campsite

Sawyer Pond, located in the central part of the state, offers a serene location to practice traditional survival skills. The pond provides an excellent water source for testing purification techniques, while the surrounding forest is ideal for tracking and wildlife observation.

18. Camp Northwood

A more secluded and primitive campsite located near Lake Winnipesaukee, Camp Northwood is perfect for prepping in a relatively isolated area. The terrain around the lake provides a combination of wetland and forested environments, great for testing a variety of survival skills.

19. Pine River Campground

A tranquil location near the White Mountains, the Pine River Campground offers preppers a perfect mix of isolation and access to resources. There’s abundant wildlife to track, and the nearby river provides both water purification and fishing practice.

20. Mount Chocorua Campground

Mount Chocorua is one of the most iconic peaks in New Hampshire, and its campground offers an excellent base for survivalists. It’s secluded, with rugged terrain perfect for wilderness skills practice. Set up camp and test your ability to navigate through varied landscapes.

21-30: Other Notable Campsites in New Hampshire for Survival Preppers:

  • Hancock Campground
  • Jockey Hollow
  • Carter Notch Hut
  • Grafton Notch State Park
  • Cranmore Mountain Resort
  • Mount Cardigan
  • Nansen Wayside Campground
  • Shelburne Campground
  • Baker Valley Campground
  • Echo Lake State Park

Conclusion


For survival preppers in New Hampshire, the abundance of rugged terrain and remote locations provides a multitude of opportunities to hone your skills and test your preparedness. Whether you’re learning how to build a fire, forage for food, or navigate the wilderness, New Hampshire’s campsites offer an unparalleled setting for training, practice, and testing your resilience. Remember, the key to being ready for any emergency is to have the skills and the mindset to survive, no matter what. These campsites will give you the space you need to get in touch with nature and sharpen your survival instincts.