Reservable campsites and first come, first served campites.
About
Affectionately known as WMNF, this Forest has 1,200 miles of trails, 23 campgrounds, and tons of ski areas. It’s no wonder it’s one of the most popular places to play outside east of the Mississippi.
The area is home to the highest peak in the Northeastern United States. Part the of the Presidential Range, Mount Washington dominates the area at 6,288 feet. The particularly daring can attempt the 23-mile Presidential Traverse—a grueling haul across seven 4,000 foot peaks. These mountains have some of the worst weather on earth. In winter, the wind can hit 200 mph with temps as low as -47 °F, so maybe just don’t go in February.
If the weather is bad, you can drive the Mount Washington Auto Road or ride the Mount Washington Cog Railway to reach the summit in style.
Affectionately known as WMNF, this Forest has 1,200 miles of trails, 23 campgrounds, and tons of ski areas. It’s no wonder it’s one of the most popular places to play outside east of the Mississippi.
The area is home to the highest peak in the Northeastern United States. Part the of the Presidential Range, Mount Washington dominates the area at 6,288 feet. The particularly daring can attempt the 23-mile Presidential Traverse—a grueling haul across seven 4,000 foot peaks. These mountains have some of the worst weather on earth. In winter, the wind can hit 200 mph with temps as low as -47 °F, so maybe just don’t go in February.
If the weather is bad, you can drive the Mount Washington Auto Road or ride the Mount Washington Cog Railway to reach the summit in style.
The rest of year is far more pleasant, especially at lower elevations. There’s abundant wildlife to see. Bald eagles, moose, black bears, lynx, otters, bobcats, and a bunch of other animals all call the WMNF home. The fall foliage and nearby quaint New England towns are not to be missed. We're talking Norman Rockwell stuff here people.
There’s plenty of camping nearby. Whether you’re after developed, family-friendly sites, or the quiet solitude of backcountry wilderness, you’ve certainly come to the right place.
If your camping crew as diverse as a box of Skittles, Osceola Vista is your jam! Set amongst northern hardwood forests, casting a mix of sun and shade, Osceola’s hood offers nearly everything an adventurous heart desires. Just minutes away, hiking enthusiasts can disappear into the Sandwich Range Wilderness and 80 miles of the White Mountain Natio Read more...
This popular campground is simply gorgeous, with massive trees that provide plenty of shade, and a wonderful setting in the midst of the White Mountains. Thanks to the pine needles, the ground is nice and soft, too. The Ammonoosuc River runs right next to the picnic area across from the campground—it’s the perfect place for a leisurely snack or me Read more...
Pitstop at the Imp shelter and tent platforms just off the Appalachian Trail, and you’ll rest your feet in the heart of the Carter-Moriah Range. The site has a caretaker in summer.
Catch scenic views of the Mahoosuc and Kilkenny Ranges from the site of a former fire tower when you stay at the Mt. Cabot Cabin, located on the Killkenny Ridge Trail. The Cabin Cabot cabin is at the South End of the Park and is free to the first group that nabs it.
Water, outhouse, tent platforms—it’s no secret why Osgood Tentsite, near the Great Gulf Wilderness on the South side of Mt. Madison, is a popular site for AT trekkers. The site is near the Osgood Trail and Osgood Cutoff.
One of the more accessible hike-in sites, Rattle River Shelter is just 1. 7 miles from the trailhead. The site is also home to designated campsites for overflow camping.
Can’t kick that campfire s’more craving? Pack your things and get your hike game on into Valley Way Tentsite. This secluded little spot is the perfect haven for outdoor adventurers looking to experience the pure goodness that is the White Mountain National Forest. You’ll stay plenty busy exploring the trails nearby and keep the camp vibes going ar Read more...
Get those camp vibes flowing when you crash at the quaint Eliza Brook Shelter. Here, you get your choice of the rugged cabin or tent life, with a few pads to set up camp in the wide open outdoors if you prefer. With great access to Eliza Brook and the Appalachian Trail, you can do plenty of exploring in this natural paradise as you immerse yoursel Read more...
What’s your trail name? If you’re hiking along the AT and need a cozy Adirondack-style shelter to rest up in, the Jeffers Brook Shelter is at your service. It is located on a side trail 1. 1 miles north of NH RT 25, with a brook water source nearby. The privy even comes with a view of the White Mountains.
Water, shelter and local trails—what more could an adventurer ask for? Pitstop at Liberty Springs Tentsite, a tensite along the Appalachian Trail, just 0. 3 miles below the junction with the Franconia Ridge Trail, and you’ll find a well-maintained site with a composting privy and dishwashing station. Refill and rest up for the next leg of your jo Read more...
You’ll find the three-sided Camp Penacook Shelter, as well as a tent camping site, on the southeast side of Mt. Chocorua. The shelter is a mile and a half from the summit. Take nearby Piper Trail up a short distance for expansive views to the east.
One of the more remote shelters in the region, Dry Rivers Shelter #3 is a three-sided structure that sits on Dry River. Approximately 2. 5 miles away, you’ll find the Alpine zone near Mt. Washington.
Jim Liberty Cabin sits on the southwest shoulder of Mt. Chocorua, just a half-mile from the summit. The cabin was originally built way back in 1932 and renovated in 1974. Inside, you’ll find three triple-bunks and a small table. Ah, the simple life.
At Mead Explorer Base Camp, you’ll find dispersed camping and nearby hiking trails. Enjoy the scenery in the forest, or head over to the nearby pond and Bearcamp River. There is no potable water here, so come prepared!
Mount Langdon Shelter sits near a small brook where the Mt. Langdon and Mt. Stanton Trails meet. The shelters is just outside the Presidential Range-Dry River Wilderness, with incredible opportunities for outdoor adventures.
The Mountain Pond Shelter is a small, open shelter that you’ll reach after a mile hike from the road. So pack light! The shelter is near the pond and hiking trails.
Picture this; A rustic wooden shelter located by three scenic ponds, where you can have a campfire, sip some wine, and bask beneath plains of stars. It can be yours for free! All you have to do is hike 2. 3 miles from the Three Ponds Trailhead.
Up for exploring some of the most epic terrain in all of the Appalachian Trial? Trident Col Tentsite can be your perfect base camp for venturing on to the Mahoosuc Notch, which boasts cabin-sized boulders that jut of the ground in picturesque fashion. This secluded spot is surrounded by forested beauty and all good ole Mother Nature you have been Read more...
Pack your bags and get lost in the forested beauty along the Unknown Pond Trail. The tent grounds here are quaint and secluded, nestled right on the tranquil waters of the pond. Enjoy the peaceful setting of mother nature as you sip your cool beer next to the shimmering stream or strap up your boots and head out on the trail—you’ll find plenty of Read more...
Do you think Mt. Washington will ever become ho-hum? We dare you to give it a go at Dolly Copp Campground, the granddaddy of White Mountain National Forest campgrounds. Book a site at the base of the infamous mountain, and you’ll awake every morning to a breathtaking landscape of New England’s highest peaks, beautifully overwhelming to-do list of Read more...
Big Rock Campground is named for the bigtime boulders that glaciers carried to the region long ago. Expect to camp in a wooded area just a short distance from other places you’ll want to check out including Otter Rocks, hiking trails along the Kancamagus Highway and the Lincoln Woods Visitor Center. There you’ll find a parking area, visitor info, Read more...
Looking to get away for a bit? Escape to the beautiful Pemigewasset Wilderness for some scenic views and crisp fresh air. Located along the Eastside Trail, you’ll enjoy a nice hike to get to the spot and can explore the surrounding natural beauty along the way. In just a short trek you can dip your toes into the cool waters of the Pemigewasset Riv Read more...
No shame in being a newbie. Just 1. 5 miles from the end of Sawyer River Road, Sawyer Pond Shelter & Tentsite is a great option for anyone still strengthening their backpacking legs. The site sits along Big Sawyer Pond and has two toilets.
Kick back after a long day of hiking at the three-sided Gentian Pond Shelter, and you’ll be treated to a night amongst the Mahoosuc range. The site is approximately 3. 5 miles north of North Road, near the intersection of Austin Brook and Mahoosuc Trails.
Just five miles east of Lincoln, Hancock Campground is an adventurers’ wonderland. Hike, fish, swim or just bum around and picnic—Hancock’s got you covered. Sites 1-21 are walk-in only, and if you want Penigewasser River in your front yard, stake out sites 14 - 20 or 39 - 54.
The popular Sugarloaf II Campground at the base of Mount Washington makes for the perfect rustic getaway spot. People love it thanks to the ample recreation opportunities, particularly the excellent hiking. As an added bonus, the campground is right on the banks of the picturesque Ammonoosuc River—which cuts through the thick, pristine forests tha Read more...
In the world of wilderness, Rocky Branch Shelter #1, with its fire ring, toilet and riverside views, is a five-star hotel. Check conditions before you go; the trail connecting Rocky Branch Road to the shelter can be closed.
Grab your best buds and head on over to this remote and rustic riverside camping spot. It’s the perfect base camp for all of your favorite outdoor activities like hiking, mountain biking, and scenic car rides (let your vehicle do the hard work for you!) You’ll be within easy access to the best of the White Mountains and their beautiful forests, re Read more...
Rest your weary Appalachain Trailin’ legs at Kinsman Pond Shelter, and you might never want to get up. Set high in the sky at 3,750 ft. and along the Kinsman Pond shore, this recently rebuilt log style shelter has two single and two double rent platforms. Rough it with water from the pond, a composting privy and a bear box.
The US Forest Service website states that the Tripoli Road Camping Area is not a place you would choose “if looking for that tranquil out of the way spot”. What the White Mountain National Forest may be implying, is that this is a car camping spot for those who like to party. The camp is located close to Loon Mountain, as well as oodles of the app Read more...
When you’re staying at a campground named after a true north country woods badass, you know it’s going to be a good time. Jigger Johnson was an accomplished logger back in the day, so it’s only fair that he gets his own campground. You’ll be close to the Swift River, and if you grab one of the prime campsites near the river, you’ll feel like a rea Read more...
Smack dab in the middle of the Kancamagus Scenic Highway, this heavily wooded campground is a great place to set up camp. Because there aren’t a ton of amenities here, it tends to stay pretty quiet, which is great news for campers seeking calm. Try to grab one of the streamside campsites, particularly 21 and 23… because we all know that there’s no Read more...
Wow. A historic cabin for camping in the White Mountains! This is every vintage campers dream. The Radeke Cabin served as a summer camp for Forestry students in the 1960’s and it is now serving your camping vacation fantasies. This rustic cabin is just off the Kancamagus Scenic Byway and easily accessible by car, but guests should be prepared to b Read more...
White Mountain National Forest
Don’t take this National Forest for granite!
Sat to Sun: Closed
Affectionately known as WMNF, this Forest has 1,200 miles of trails, 23 campgrounds, and tons of ski areas. It’s no wonder it’s one of the most popular places to play outside east of the Mississippi.
The area is home to the highest peak in the Northeastern United States. Part the of the Presidential Range, Mount Washington dominates the area at 6,288 feet. The particularly daring can attempt the 23-mile Presidential Traverse—a grueling haul across seven 4,000 foot peaks. These mountains have some of the worst weather on earth. In winter, the wind can hit 200 mph with temps as low as -47 °F, so maybe just don’t go in February.
If the weather is bad, you can drive the Mount Washington Auto Road or ride the Mount Washington Cog Railway to reach the summit in style.
The rest of year is far more pleasant, esp
Affectionately known as WMNF, this Forest has 1,200 miles of trails, 23 campgrounds, and tons of ski areas. It’s no wonder it’s one of the most popular places to play outside east of the Mississippi.
The area is home to the highest peak in the Northeastern United States. Part the of the Presidential Range, Mount Washington dominates the area at 6,288 feet. The particularly daring can attempt the 23-mile Presidential Traverse—a grueling haul across seven 4,000 foot peaks. These mountains have some of the worst weather on earth. In winter, the wind can hit 200 mph with temps as low as -47 °F, so maybe just don’t go in February.
If the weather is bad, you can drive the Mount Washington Auto Road or ride the Mount Washington Cog Railway to reach the summit in style.
The rest of year is far more pleasant, especially at lower elevations. There’s abundant wildlife to see. Bald eagles, moose, black bears, lynx, otters, bobcats, and a bunch of other animals all call the WMNF home. The fall foliage and nearby quaint New England towns are not to be missed. We're talking Norman Rockwell stuff here people.
There’s plenty of camping nearby. Whether you’re after developed, family-friendly sites, or the quiet solitude of backcountry wilderness, you’ve certainly come to the right place.
Activities in the park
64 campgrounds in White Mountain National Forest
If your camping crew as diverse as a box of Skittles, Osceola Vista is your jam! Set amongst northern hardwood forests, casting a mix of sun and shade, Osceola’s hood offers nearly everything an adventurous heart desires. Just minutes away, hiking enthusiasts can disappear into the Sandwich Range Wilderness and 80 miles of the White Mountain Natio Read more...
This popular campground is simply gorgeous, with massive trees that provide plenty of shade, and a wonderful setting in the midst of the White Mountains. Thanks to the pine needles, the ground is nice and soft, too. The Ammonoosuc River runs right next to the picnic area across from the campground—it’s the perfect place for a leisurely snack or me Read more...
Pitstop at the Imp shelter and tent platforms just off the Appalachian Trail, and you’ll rest your feet in the heart of the Carter-Moriah Range. The site has a caretaker in summer.
Catch scenic views of the Mahoosuc and Kilkenny Ranges from the site of a former fire tower when you stay at the Mt. Cabot Cabin, located on the Killkenny Ridge Trail. The Cabin Cabot cabin is at the South End of the Park and is free to the first group that nabs it.
Water, outhouse, tent platforms—it’s no secret why Osgood Tentsite, near the Great Gulf Wilderness on the South side of Mt. Madison, is a popular site for AT trekkers. The site is near the Osgood Trail and Osgood Cutoff.
One of the more accessible hike-in sites, Rattle River Shelter is just 1. 7 miles from the trailhead. The site is also home to designated campsites for overflow camping.
Can’t kick that campfire s’more craving? Pack your things and get your hike game on into Valley Way Tentsite. This secluded little spot is the perfect haven for outdoor adventurers looking to experience the pure goodness that is the White Mountain National Forest. You’ll stay plenty busy exploring the trails nearby and keep the camp vibes going ar Read more...
Get those camp vibes flowing when you crash at the quaint Eliza Brook Shelter. Here, you get your choice of the rugged cabin or tent life, with a few pads to set up camp in the wide open outdoors if you prefer. With great access to Eliza Brook and the Appalachian Trail, you can do plenty of exploring in this natural paradise as you immerse yoursel Read more...
What’s your trail name? If you’re hiking along the AT and need a cozy Adirondack-style shelter to rest up in, the Jeffers Brook Shelter is at your service. It is located on a side trail 1. 1 miles north of NH RT 25, with a brook water source nearby. The privy even comes with a view of the White Mountains.
Water, shelter and local trails—what more could an adventurer ask for? Pitstop at Liberty Springs Tentsite, a tensite along the Appalachian Trail, just 0. 3 miles below the junction with the Franconia Ridge Trail, and you’ll find a well-maintained site with a composting privy and dishwashing station. Refill and rest up for the next leg of your jo Read more...
You’ll find the three-sided Camp Penacook Shelter, as well as a tent camping site, on the southeast side of Mt. Chocorua. The shelter is a mile and a half from the summit. Take nearby Piper Trail up a short distance for expansive views to the east.
One of the more remote shelters in the region, Dry Rivers Shelter #3 is a three-sided structure that sits on Dry River. Approximately 2. 5 miles away, you’ll find the Alpine zone near Mt. Washington.
Jim Liberty Cabin sits on the southwest shoulder of Mt. Chocorua, just a half-mile from the summit. The cabin was originally built way back in 1932 and renovated in 1974. Inside, you’ll find three triple-bunks and a small table. Ah, the simple life.
At Mead Explorer Base Camp, you’ll find dispersed camping and nearby hiking trails. Enjoy the scenery in the forest, or head over to the nearby pond and Bearcamp River. There is no potable water here, so come prepared!
Mount Langdon Shelter sits near a small brook where the Mt. Langdon and Mt. Stanton Trails meet. The shelters is just outside the Presidential Range-Dry River Wilderness, with incredible opportunities for outdoor adventures.
The Mountain Pond Shelter is a small, open shelter that you’ll reach after a mile hike from the road. So pack light! The shelter is near the pond and hiking trails.
Province Pond Shelter is a 1. 6-mile hike from the parking lot, so pack light! The shelter is in a forested area near Province Pond.
Picture this; A rustic wooden shelter located by three scenic ponds, where you can have a campfire, sip some wine, and bask beneath plains of stars. It can be yours for free! All you have to do is hike 2. 3 miles from the Three Ponds Trailhead.
Up for exploring some of the most epic terrain in all of the Appalachian Trial? Trident Col Tentsite can be your perfect base camp for venturing on to the Mahoosuc Notch, which boasts cabin-sized boulders that jut of the ground in picturesque fashion. This secluded spot is surrounded by forested beauty and all good ole Mother Nature you have been Read more...
Pack your bags and get lost in the forested beauty along the Unknown Pond Trail. The tent grounds here are quaint and secluded, nestled right on the tranquil waters of the pond. Enjoy the peaceful setting of mother nature as you sip your cool beer next to the shimmering stream or strap up your boots and head out on the trail—you’ll find plenty of Read more...
Do you think Mt. Washington will ever become ho-hum? We dare you to give it a go at Dolly Copp Campground, the granddaddy of White Mountain National Forest campgrounds. Book a site at the base of the infamous mountain, and you’ll awake every morning to a breathtaking landscape of New England’s highest peaks, beautifully overwhelming to-do list of Read more...
Big Rock Campground is named for the bigtime boulders that glaciers carried to the region long ago. Expect to camp in a wooded area just a short distance from other places you’ll want to check out including Otter Rocks, hiking trails along the Kancamagus Highway and the Lincoln Woods Visitor Center. There you’ll find a parking area, visitor info, Read more...
Looking to get away for a bit? Escape to the beautiful Pemigewasset Wilderness for some scenic views and crisp fresh air. Located along the Eastside Trail, you’ll enjoy a nice hike to get to the spot and can explore the surrounding natural beauty along the way. In just a short trek you can dip your toes into the cool waters of the Pemigewasset Riv Read more...
No shame in being a newbie. Just 1. 5 miles from the end of Sawyer River Road, Sawyer Pond Shelter & Tentsite is a great option for anyone still strengthening their backpacking legs. The site sits along Big Sawyer Pond and has two toilets.
Kick back after a long day of hiking at the three-sided Gentian Pond Shelter, and you’ll be treated to a night amongst the Mahoosuc range. The site is approximately 3. 5 miles north of North Road, near the intersection of Austin Brook and Mahoosuc Trails.
Just five miles east of Lincoln, Hancock Campground is an adventurers’ wonderland. Hike, fish, swim or just bum around and picnic—Hancock’s got you covered. Sites 1-21 are walk-in only, and if you want Penigewasser River in your front yard, stake out sites 14 - 20 or 39 - 54.
The popular Sugarloaf II Campground at the base of Mount Washington makes for the perfect rustic getaway spot. People love it thanks to the ample recreation opportunities, particularly the excellent hiking. As an added bonus, the campground is right on the banks of the picturesque Ammonoosuc River—which cuts through the thick, pristine forests tha Read more...
In the world of wilderness, Rocky Branch Shelter #1, with its fire ring, toilet and riverside views, is a five-star hotel. Check conditions before you go; the trail connecting Rocky Branch Road to the shelter can be closed.
Grab your best buds and head on over to this remote and rustic riverside camping spot. It’s the perfect base camp for all of your favorite outdoor activities like hiking, mountain biking, and scenic car rides (let your vehicle do the hard work for you!) You’ll be within easy access to the best of the White Mountains and their beautiful forests, re Read more...
Rest your weary Appalachain Trailin’ legs at Kinsman Pond Shelter, and you might never want to get up. Set high in the sky at 3,750 ft. and along the Kinsman Pond shore, this recently rebuilt log style shelter has two single and two double rent platforms. Rough it with water from the pond, a composting privy and a bear box.
The US Forest Service website states that the Tripoli Road Camping Area is not a place you would choose “if looking for that tranquil out of the way spot”. What the White Mountain National Forest may be implying, is that this is a car camping spot for those who like to party. The camp is located close to Loon Mountain, as well as oodles of the app Read more...
When you’re staying at a campground named after a true north country woods badass, you know it’s going to be a good time. Jigger Johnson was an accomplished logger back in the day, so it’s only fair that he gets his own campground. You’ll be close to the Swift River, and if you grab one of the prime campsites near the river, you’ll feel like a rea Read more...
Smack dab in the middle of the Kancamagus Scenic Highway, this heavily wooded campground is a great place to set up camp. Because there aren’t a ton of amenities here, it tends to stay pretty quiet, which is great news for campers seeking calm. Try to grab one of the streamside campsites, particularly 21 and 23… because we all know that there’s no Read more...
Wow. A historic cabin for camping in the White Mountains! This is every vintage campers dream. The Radeke Cabin served as a summer camp for Forestry students in the 1960’s and it is now serving your camping vacation fantasies. This rustic cabin is just off the Kancamagus Scenic Byway and easily accessible by car, but guests should be prepared to b Read more...