The best camping in New Hampshire.

From the White Mountains to Portsmouth Harbor, the Granite State blends the charms of New England with rugged scenery and a distinct brand of individualism.

To the north, the White Mountain National Forest has a wildness that invites exploration. White Mountain NF is home to the northeast's high peak, Mount Washington. Hiking trails lead to the summit, but you can also take the Cog Railway, a 3-hour roundtrip mountain train. The region is famed for its ski resorts and wildlife, including moose, foxes, bears and white-tailed deer. Lafayette Campground within the Franconia Notch State Park makes a good introduction for primitive camping.

The state's southern region offers rolling hills and colonial towns for family-friendly outings. New Hampshire's coastline is small but packed with things to do. Hampton Beach State Park boasts sandy beaches for swimming and an RV park for camping. The port city of Portsmouth is a short drive away, with a busy historic commercial district to shop or grab an ice cream.

Further inland, Mount Monadnock is the second-most climbed mountain in the world and popular with families. The Gibson Pond Campground is a convenient home base to camp after your hike, with tent sites and coin-operated showers.

Several large lakes in central New Hampshire make up the Lakes Region. The biggest is Lake Winnipesaukee. A favorite for boating and fishing, the waters are stocked annually with salmon and trout. Lake Ellacoya State Park has a nice beach for swimming, plus a boat launch for small craft and RV sites for camping.