Best New Hampshire Campgrounds: Find Your Perfect Spot

Readers, are you planning a camping trip to New Hampshire and wondering where to set up camp? The Granite State boasts stunning natural beauty, from towering mountains to pristine lakes, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Choosing the right campground can make or break your trip, and with so many options, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But fear not, because we’ve delved deep into the world of New Hampshire campgrounds and analyzed their features to bring you the most comprehensive guide available.

We’ve explored every nook and cranny of New Hampshire’s camping scene, and we’re here to help you find the perfect spot for your next adventure. Whether you’re looking for a secluded escape in the heart of the wilderness or a family-friendly campground with amenities galore, we’ve got you covered. Let’s embark on a journey to uncover the best New Hampshire campgrounds!

Types of New Hampshire Campgrounds

New Hampshire offers a diverse range of campgrounds to suit every preference. From rustic tent sites to luxurious RV hookups, you’ll find an option that aligns with your style and budget. Let’s explore the different types of campgrounds you can choose from:

State Park Campgrounds

State park campgrounds offer a unique blend of affordability and natural beauty. These campgrounds are managed by the New Hampshire Division of Parks and Recreation and often feature scenic views, hiking trails, and access to various recreational activities. They are a great choice for budget-conscious campers who want to experience the authentic New Hampshire wilderness.

Private Campgrounds

Private campgrounds provide a wider range of amenities and services, including swimming pools, playgrounds, laundry facilities, and even Wi-Fi access. They can be more expensive than state park campgrounds, but they offer a more comfortable and convenient experience. Private campgrounds are a good fit for families or groups seeking a more luxurious camping experience.

National Forest Campgrounds

Located within the White Mountain National Forest, these campgrounds provide access to breathtaking mountain scenery and a vast network of trails. They offer a more primitive camping experience compared to state park or private campgrounds, with fewer amenities. National forest campgrounds are ideal for those who want to escape civilization and immerse themselves in the wild.

Backcountry Camping

For the adventurous souls who crave the ultimate wilderness experience, backcountry camping is the way to go. This involves hiking into remote areas and setting up camp in designated backcountry sites. It requires self-sufficiency and proper preparation, but it offers unparalleled peace and solitude in the heart of nature. Backcountry camping is perfect for experienced hikers and campers who want to challenge themselves.

Best New Hampshire Campgrounds for Families

Finding a family-friendly campground is crucial for a memorable camping trip. You want a place with amenities that cater to children, safe and supervised areas for play, and activities that keep everyone entertained. Here are some of the best New Hampshire campgrounds for families:

(H3) Hampton Beach State Park

Located on the beautiful New Hampshire coast, Hampton Beach State Park offers a perfect blend of beach fun and camping convenience. With its sandy shores, family-friendly swimming areas, and numerous activities, it’s a top choice for families seeking a seaside getaway. The park features a variety of campsites, including tent sites, RV sites with hookups, and even cabins. The campground also features a playground, picnic areas, and a bathhouse with showers.

(H3) Bear Brook State Park

Nestled in the heart of New Hampshire’s scenic Merrimack Valley, Bear Brook State Park provides a serene escape for families. This expansive park boasts miles of hiking trails, a stunning lake with swimming and fishing opportunities, and a variety of family-friendly activities, including a playground, a nature center, and a historic covered bridge. The campground offers spacious campsites for tents and RVs, ensuring ample space for your family to spread out.

(H3) Pawtuckaway State Park

Known for its vast lake and diverse recreational opportunities, Pawtuckaway State Park is a favorite among families. The park boasts a sandy beach, boat rentals, hiking trails, and even a designated swimming area. The campground offers various campsites, including tent sites, RV sites with hookups, and even cabins. It also features a playground, a picnic area, and a bathhouse with showers. With its ample amenities and scenic beauty, Pawtuckaway State Park provides an ideal setting for a relaxing camping experience.

Best New Hampshire Campgrounds for Hiking

New Hampshire is a hiker’s paradise, with miles of trails winding through stunning mountains, forests, and lakes. Choosing a campground near hiking trails can enhance your outdoor experience and provide easy access to your favorite routes. Here are some of the best New Hampshire campgrounds for hiking enthusiasts:

(H3) Franconia Notch State Park

Located in the heart of the White Mountains, Franconia Notch State Park is a hiker’s dream destination. Home to iconic peaks like Mount Pemigewasset, Mount Flume, and Cannon Mountain, the park offers an array of trails suitable for all skill levels. The campground features tent sites and RV sites with hookups, providing a convenient base for exploring the park’s vast wilderness. You’ll be within easy reach of the Flume Gorge, a stunning natural rock formation, and the scenic Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

(H3) Crawford Notch State Park

Nestled in a picturesque valley in the White Mountains, Crawford Notch State Park offers breathtaking views and challenging hiking trails. The park is known for its towering mountains, cascading waterfalls, and stunning rock formations. The campground features primitive tent sites, providing a truly immersive experience in the natural surroundings. From the challenging climb to Mount Washington, the highest peak in the Northeast, to the scenic trails along the Saco River, Crawford Notch State Park offers endless hiking opportunities.

(H3) Lafayette Place Campground (White Mountain National Forest)

Located within the White Mountain National Forest, Lafayette Place Campground is a hiker’s haven. It provides access to numerous trails, including the popular Mount Pemigewasset trail, which leads to the summit of this majestic peak. The campground features a variety of tent sites and RV sites with hookups, catering to different camping styles. Lafayette Place Campground offers a perfect balance of wilderness immersion and convenience, making it an ideal base for exploring the White Mountains.

Best New Hampshire Campgrounds for RVers

For those who prefer the comfort and convenience of RV camping, New Hampshire offers a wide range of campgrounds with full hookups and amenities. Here are some of the best New Hampshire campgrounds for RVers:

(H3) White Mountain Campground

Located in the heart of the White Mountains, White Mountain Campground provides a perfect base for exploring the region’s scenic beauty. The campground features a variety of RV sites with full hookups, including 30-amp and 50-amp service, ensuring you have all the power you need for your RV’s amenities. Additionally, the campground offers a laundry facility, a recreation hall, and a playground. Its proximity to hiking trails, scenic drives, and attractions like the Flume Gorge and Cannon Mountain makes it an ideal choice for RVers.

(H3) Echo Lake Campground

Nestled on the shores of scenic Echo Lake, Echo Lake Campground offers a tranquil setting for RVers. The campground features a variety of RV sites with full hookups, including 30-amp and 50-amp service. It also boasts a dump station, a laundry facility, and a playground. Echo Lake Campground is a great choice for RVers looking for a relaxing retreat surrounded by nature. The lake provides ample opportunities for fishing, swimming, and kayaking, while the surrounding forest offers hiking trails for exploring the natural beauty.

(H3) Lake Winnipesaukee KOA

Located on the shores of the iconic Lake Winnipesaukee, Lake Winnipesaukee KOA provides a convenient and enjoyable camping experience for RVers. The campground features a variety of RV sites with full hookups, including 30-amp and 50-amp service. It also offers a dump station, a laundry facility, a playground, and a swimming pool. Lake Winnipesaukee KOA is a great choice for RVers seeking a family-friendly campground with a wide range of amenities. It provides easy access to the lake’s attractions, including boating, swimming, and fishing.

Best New Hampshire Campgrounds for Seclusion

Sometimes, you crave a secluded camping experience, far from the hustle and bustle of civilization. New Hampshire offers several campgrounds perfect for those seeking peace and solitude. Here are some of the best New Hampshire campgrounds for seclusion:

(H3) Dolly Copp Campground (White Mountain National Forest)

Located within the White Mountain National Forest, Dolly Copp Campground offers a truly remote camping experience. Nestled deep in the forest, the campground provides a sense of tranquility and isolation. The campground features primitive tent sites, offering a back-to-basics camping experience. Dolly Copp Campground is ideal for those who want to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the White Mountains.

(H3) Kinsman Pond Campground

Nestled on the shores of picturesque Kinsman Pond, Kinsman Pond Campground offers a tranquil and secluded camping experience. The campground features primitive tent sites and RV sites with limited hookups, providing a balance of convenience and wilderness immersion. Surrounded by towering mountains and lush forests, Kinsman Pond Campground offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle. The pond provides ample opportunities for swimming, fishing, and kayaking, while the surrounding trails offer picturesque hiking opportunities.

(H3) Lost River Campground (White Mountain National Forest)

Located in the heart of the White Mountain National Forest, Lost River Campground offers a secluded and adventurous camping experience. Nestled amidst stunning rock formations and surrounded by lush forests, the campground provides a sense of tranquility and isolation. Lost River Campground features primitive tent sites, offering a back-to-basics camping experience. It is ideal for those who want to explore the unique geological formations of the Lost River Gorge and immerse themselves in the raw beauty of the White Mountains.

Tips for Choosing a New Hampshire Campground

Choosing the right New Hampshire campground is essential for a successful camping trip. To guide you in your decision-making process, here are some tips to consider:

Consider your camping style: Are you looking for a primitive tent site, a luxurious RV hookup, or a cabin with amenities? Determine your preferences before starting your search.
Think about your activities: What activities do you want to enjoy during your trip? If you’re into hiking, choose a campground near trails. If you prefer swimming, opt for a campground with a lake or beach.
Factor in the time of year: Campgrounds have different peak seasons and availability. Consider the time of year you’re planning to travel and book your site accordingly.
Read reviews: Check online reviews to get insights from other campers about the campground’s amenities, conditions, and overall experience.
Make reservations in advance: Popular campgrounds, especially during peak season, fill up quickly. Book your site in advance to avoid disappointment.

Essential Camping Gear

To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience, pack the essential gear. Here’s a list of items you shouldn’t leave home:

Tent: A sturdy tent that can withstand the weather conditions you’ll encounter.
Sleeping bag: A warm sleeping bag appropriate for the temperature range you’ll experience.
Sleeping pad: A comfortable sleeping pad to provide insulation and cushioning.
Headlamp or flashlight: A reliable light source for navigating the campground at night.
First-aid kit: A well-stocked first-aid kit containing essential medications and supplies.
Camp stove: A portable camp stove for cooking meals.
Cooking gear: Pots, pans, utensils, and plates for food preparation and eating.
Water bottle: A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
Sunscreen: Protect your skin from the sun’s rays.
Insect repellent: Keep pesky insects at bay.

FAQ about New Hampshire Campgrounds

(H3) How much does it cost to camp in New Hampshire?

The cost of camping in New Hampshire varies depending on the type of campground, amenities, and time of year. State park campgrounds are generally more affordable, while private campgrounds and KOA campgrounds tend to be more expensive. You can expect to pay anywhere from $20 to $50 per night for a basic campsite.

(H3) What are the best campgrounds for stargazing?

New Hampshire offers stunning night skies perfect for stargazing. Some of the best campgrounds for stargazing include:

Dolly Copp Campground (White Mountain National Forest): This remote campground offers a truly dark sky experience, minimizing light pollution for optimal stargazing.
Kinsman Pond Campground: Nestled in a secluded setting, Kinsman Pond Campground provides a peaceful atmosphere for observing the stars.
Lost River Campground (White Mountain National Forest): Located in a remote area with minimal light pollution, Lost River Campground offers fantastic stargazing opportunities.

(H3) Do New Hampshire campgrounds offer amenities like showers and toilets?

The availability of amenities like showers and toilets varies depending on the campground. State park campgrounds typically have pit toilets and some may offer flush toilets and showers. Private campgrounds and KOA campgrounds often have modern restrooms with flush toilets, showers, and even laundry facilities.

Conclusion

There you have it, readers! We’ve explored the best New Hampshire campgrounds, offering insights into different types of campgrounds, family-friendly options, hiker’s havens, RV-friendly destinations, and secluded retreats. Whether you’re seeking an adventure-filled getaway or a tranquil escape, New Hampshire has a campground to satisfy your camping desires. So pack your gear, grab your loved ones, and embark on a memorable camping trip to the Granite State!

For more information about New Hampshire adventures and outdoor activities, be sure to check out our other articles. Happy camping!

We hope this guide has helped you discover the perfect New Hampshire campground for your next outdoor adventure. Whether you crave the thrill of adrenaline-pumping activities or the peaceful tranquility of nature’s embrace, New Hampshire offers a diverse range of campgrounds to cater to every taste and preference. From the towering peaks of the White Mountains to the serene shores of Lake Winnipesaukee, there’s a spot waiting to be explored.

As you embark on your camping journey, remember to pack essentials like a tent, sleeping bags, warm clothing, and a first-aid kit. Don’t forget to check the weather forecast before heading out, and be prepared for unexpected changes. Research the campground’s amenities and rules beforehand, and respect the natural environment by disposing of your trash properly and leaving no trace of your presence.

So, grab your gear, gather your loved ones, and embrace the beauty and wonder of New Hampshire’s campgrounds. Whether you’re seeking a weekend getaway or a longer escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, these exceptional destinations provide a chance to reconnect with nature, create lasting memories, and forge a deeper appreciation for the great outdoors. Happy camping!

Discover the best New Hampshire campgrounds for your next adventure! Find stunning views, family-friendly fun, and peaceful escapes. Book your perfect spot today!