Hi Backcountry Forum folks,

I'm looking for help understanding what and how to plan regarding where to overnight when backpacking.

I live in Somerville Massachusetts, and I am thinking about trying some backpacking in the White Mountains, NH.

I have a pretty good amount of experience with both camping and hiking.

It seems pretty easy to find guides for how to pack and be prepared. But I am confused about the campsite part. I imagine it depends on where you are. I'm sure there are places out there where you just look for a good spot to make camp. In the White Mountains, would I be expected to reserve a specific site along a route? If so, I haven't cracked the nut of how to plan for that.

Thanks for your help.
-Mike