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.
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...
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.
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...
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...
If you love hiking, you’ll adore camping at Waterville. It’s a popular staging area for hikers who want to get out and see the best of the Southern White Mountains, including the gorgeous Pemigewasset Wilderness area. But that’s not the only draw. Swimming, fishing, and whitewater paddling draw in the crowds, and Waterville’s thick forest, proximi Read more...
You won’t have to venture far from the road over at Zealand Campground. This small campground will put you right next to the Ammonoosuc River, and you can’t beat the Zealand Valley’s stunning scenery. The single loop is shaded by a forest of hardwoods, and the grassy tent sites are deceivingly open and spacious. You might hear some noise from the Read more...
You’ll absolutely adore this small, rustic campground… and the fact that you’ll be in a deliciously remote part of the White Mountains is just the cherry on top. The campground is nestled into a lovely hardwood forest, giving you and your pals ample shade (and places to hang a hammock. ) Outdoor activities abound: good fishing and canoeing in near 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...
Get those gams in shape—when spring skiing hits Tuckerman Ravine, you don’t want to miss out. Situated at the base of Tuckerman Ravine, the Hermit Lake Shelter (lean-tos and tent platforms) is homebase for mountaineers yearround. The site has a year-round caretaker as well as outhouses and a hand pump.
Tucked away on the shore of the scenic Ethan Pond, this shelter is a great spot to crash at any time of year. With the extra protection from the elements, you can spend more time exploring the expansive and beautiful Pemigewasset Wilderness knowing you’ll be coming back to a comfortable base camp. There are also several tent platforms that can be 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...
Hankering for a hike on the Appalachian Trail? Best stop by the Garfield Ridge Shelter operated by The Appalachian Mountain Club. The campsite is located on the Garfield Ridge Trail, just northeast of Garfield’s summit. The shelter is an 'Adirondack' style with two single and five double tent platforms. A natural spring is nearby for some freshwat Read more...
Hike the Whites! Deep in the Pemigewasset Wilderness in the White Mountains lies the popular Guyot Shelter and accompanying camp sites. The shelter is located off the Bondcliff Trail on a spur path 4,360 feet above the sea. Striking views and epic sunrises are just some of what make this a festive spot on the weekends. So grab your pack and hit th 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.
Done with humans? We get you. Escape to the remote Thirteen Falls Tentsite at the Franconia Brook, Lincoln Brook, and Twin Brook Trails, all within the Pemigewasset Wilderness Area. Sites have a composting privy and dishwashing areas.
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...
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.
Nestled at the crossroads of Rocky Branch and the Isolation Trails, Rocky Branch Shelter #2 sits along the Rocky Branch River and has a fire ring. Before you head out, check out trail conditions—Rocky Branch Trail can be closed.
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.
Grab the crock pot and get ready to cook up some fish stew at Crocker Pond Campground in Maine’s White Mountains. Campsites are private and spacious, first-come, first-served, and right next to Crocker Pond itself. The area offers numerous other fishing and boating ponds, as well as hiking trails. Can’t go wrong in the state o’ the pines!
Book a spot at Barnes Field Campground, and we can guarantee you’ll get a stellar rugged crew on board. With just a handpump and vault toilet, this group campground sits near the scenic Peabody River, with easy access to hiking trails, mountain biking and fishing. If you can brave camping in a New Hampshire winter (all hail!), there’s also excelle Read more...
Families that camp together, stay together. That definitely holds true when you’re staying at a place as equipped as Campton Campground. Set amidst a beautiful thick forest of white pine and northern hardwoods close to Campton Pond and Mad River, Campton sets the scene for a much-improved family vacation. Start ‘em young with local kid-friendly ac Read more...
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...
Looking for a stellar spot in eastern New Hampshire? In case you didn’t already know, White Mountain National Forest is one seriously epic corner of the good ol’ US of A. Basin Campground is a great base camp to explore the nearby wilderness, which includes snow-capped mountains, loads of trees,and hiking trails and fishing a’plenty. Sites are pea Read more...
Fancy a bit of history? Well, Blackberry Crossing was once a CCC (Civilian Conservation Corps) camp during the 1930s, and there’s even a self-guided tour of the old camp inside of the campground. It certainly wouldn’t be out of place to have a rousing (but civil!) discussion about the implications of New Deal programs out here. If that’s not your Read more...
Looking for a perfect base camp in the White Mountains? Try out the popular Covered Bridge Campground just 6 miles outside of Conway. The camp is nestled into a thick forest along one of the most scenic drives in New Hampshire. Check out the Swift River, thriving wildlife, and the nearby Boulder Loop Trail. They don’t call this the “live free or d Read more...
Close to the town of Conway, the White Ledge Campground offers quaint and scenic campsites. Just outside the campground is access to the recreation heaven of the White Mountains: numerous hiking trails, rock climbing routes, scenic overlooks, wildlife, fishing, and kayaking. We can hear the pine crackl’n in your campfire now!
Fancy an antique cabin on top of Black Mountain? The Black Mountain Cabin was built in the 1930’s and is ultra-rustic. The Black Mountain Ski Trail is used to hike, ski, or snowshoe 1. 4 miles to the cabin, depending on the season. Be prepared to schlepp all your wilderness glamping essentials. The views are guaranteed to be worth it.
If you love skirting the mountains this is the place to be. An ultra-rustic log cabin that sits atop the north summit of Doublehead Mountain. Historically, the cabin was used as a warming hut and shelter for skiers traveling on the Doublehead Ski Trail. Guests should be prepared to transport all their gear and supplies on foot over an elevation o 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.
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
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...
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.
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...
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...
If you love hiking, you’ll adore camping at Waterville. It’s a popular staging area for hikers who want to get out and see the best of the Southern White Mountains, including the gorgeous Pemigewasset Wilderness area. But that’s not the only draw. Swimming, fishing, and whitewater paddling draw in the crowds, and Waterville’s thick forest, proximi Read more...
You won’t have to venture far from the road over at Zealand Campground. This small campground will put you right next to the Ammonoosuc River, and you can’t beat the Zealand Valley’s stunning scenery. The single loop is shaded by a forest of hardwoods, and the grassy tent sites are deceivingly open and spacious. You might hear some noise from the Read more...
You’ll absolutely adore this small, rustic campground… and the fact that you’ll be in a deliciously remote part of the White Mountains is just the cherry on top. The campground is nestled into a lovely hardwood forest, giving you and your pals ample shade (and places to hang a hammock. ) Outdoor activities abound: good fishing and canoeing in near 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...
Get those gams in shape—when spring skiing hits Tuckerman Ravine, you don’t want to miss out. Situated at the base of Tuckerman Ravine, the Hermit Lake Shelter (lean-tos and tent platforms) is homebase for mountaineers yearround. The site has a year-round caretaker as well as outhouses and a hand pump.
Tucked away on the shore of the scenic Ethan Pond, this shelter is a great spot to crash at any time of year. With the extra protection from the elements, you can spend more time exploring the expansive and beautiful Pemigewasset Wilderness knowing you’ll be coming back to a comfortable base camp. There are also several tent platforms that can be 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...
Hankering for a hike on the Appalachian Trail? Best stop by the Garfield Ridge Shelter operated by The Appalachian Mountain Club. The campsite is located on the Garfield Ridge Trail, just northeast of Garfield’s summit. The shelter is an 'Adirondack' style with two single and five double tent platforms. A natural spring is nearby for some freshwat Read more...
Hike the Whites! Deep in the Pemigewasset Wilderness in the White Mountains lies the popular Guyot Shelter and accompanying camp sites. The shelter is located off the Bondcliff Trail on a spur path 4,360 feet above the sea. Striking views and epic sunrises are just some of what make this a festive spot on the weekends. So grab your pack and hit th 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.
Done with humans? We get you. Escape to the remote Thirteen Falls Tentsite at the Franconia Brook, Lincoln Brook, and Twin Brook Trails, all within the Pemigewasset Wilderness Area. Sites have a composting privy and dishwashing areas.
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...
Fourth Iron Campground sits in at the confluence of the Saco and Sawyer Rivers. There are bear boxes here for your (and the bears’) safety. Use ‘em!
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.
Nestled at the crossroads of Rocky Branch and the Isolation Trails, Rocky Branch Shelter #2 sits along the Rocky Branch River and has a fire ring. Before you head out, check out trail conditions—Rocky Branch Trail can be closed.
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.
Grab the crock pot and get ready to cook up some fish stew at Crocker Pond Campground in Maine’s White Mountains. Campsites are private and spacious, first-come, first-served, and right next to Crocker Pond itself. The area offers numerous other fishing and boating ponds, as well as hiking trails. Can’t go wrong in the state o’ the pines!
Book a spot at Barnes Field Campground, and we can guarantee you’ll get a stellar rugged crew on board. With just a handpump and vault toilet, this group campground sits near the scenic Peabody River, with easy access to hiking trails, mountain biking and fishing. If you can brave camping in a New Hampshire winter (all hail!), there’s also excelle Read more...
Families that camp together, stay together. That definitely holds true when you’re staying at a place as equipped as Campton Campground. Set amidst a beautiful thick forest of white pine and northern hardwoods close to Campton Pond and Mad River, Campton sets the scene for a much-improved family vacation. Start ‘em young with local kid-friendly ac Read more...
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...
Looking for a stellar spot in eastern New Hampshire? In case you didn’t already know, White Mountain National Forest is one seriously epic corner of the good ol’ US of A. Basin Campground is a great base camp to explore the nearby wilderness, which includes snow-capped mountains, loads of trees,and hiking trails and fishing a’plenty. Sites are pea Read more...
Fancy a bit of history? Well, Blackberry Crossing was once a CCC (Civilian Conservation Corps) camp during the 1930s, and there’s even a self-guided tour of the old camp inside of the campground. It certainly wouldn’t be out of place to have a rousing (but civil!) discussion about the implications of New Deal programs out here. If that’s not your Read more...
Looking for a perfect base camp in the White Mountains? Try out the popular Covered Bridge Campground just 6 miles outside of Conway. The camp is nestled into a thick forest along one of the most scenic drives in New Hampshire. Check out the Swift River, thriving wildlife, and the nearby Boulder Loop Trail. They don’t call this the “live free or d Read more...
Close to the town of Conway, the White Ledge Campground offers quaint and scenic campsites. Just outside the campground is access to the recreation heaven of the White Mountains: numerous hiking trails, rock climbing routes, scenic overlooks, wildlife, fishing, and kayaking. We can hear the pine crackl’n in your campfire now!
Fancy an antique cabin on top of Black Mountain? The Black Mountain Cabin was built in the 1930’s and is ultra-rustic. The Black Mountain Ski Trail is used to hike, ski, or snowshoe 1. 4 miles to the cabin, depending on the season. Be prepared to schlepp all your wilderness glamping essentials. The views are guaranteed to be worth it.
If you love skirting the mountains this is the place to be. An ultra-rustic log cabin that sits atop the north summit of Doublehead Mountain. Historically, the cabin was used as a warming hut and shelter for skiers traveling on the Doublehead Ski Trail. Guests should be prepared to transport all their gear and supplies on foot over an elevation o 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.