Camping in New Hampshire: Best New Hampshire Campgrounds 2023

Q: Is New Hampshire good for camping?

Yes, New Hampshire is an excellent destination for camping. With a variety of landscapes, including the White Mountains, numerous lakes, and vast forests, there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. The state offers a range of camping options, such as state parks, private campgrounds, and remote backcountry sites. You can find more information about camping in New Hampshire at Hipcamp.

Q: Is it legal to camp anywhere in New Hampshire?

In New Hampshire , it is not legal to camp anywhere you want. Camping is allowed in designated campgrounds and specific areas within state parks, forests, and private lands. Dispersed or wild camping is allowed in some parts of the White Mountain National Forest , but there are rules and regulations you must follow, such as camping at least 200 feet away from trails and water sources and staying at least a quarter mile away from established campgrounds and huts. To find campgrounds and camping spots in New Hampshire , you can explore options on Hipcamp or visit the New Hampshire State Parks camping page for more information on state park camping.

Q: How much does it cost to camp in a New Hampshire state park?

Camping fees in New Hampshire State Parks vary depending on the park and the type of campsite. Prices generally range from $25 to $50 per night for tent and RV sites. Some parks may charge additional fees for amenities or services. For more information on specific parks and their camping fees, visit New Hampshire State Parks.

United States
—
New Hampshire

97% (4556 reviews)

Popular camping styles for New Hampshire

Star Hosts in New Hampshire

99%

(41)

Top camping destinations

Franconia Notch State Park

1140 campgrounds

Pawtuckaway State Park

1119 campgrounds

Concord

989 campgrounds

White Mountain National Forest

1131 campgrounds

Manchester

952 campgrounds

Under $50

98%

(286)

The Hummingbird Center

39 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents200 acres · Grafton

The Hummingbird Center is an educational homestead and organic permaculture farm nestled in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. We offer a variety of lodging options including field camping, platform tent camping, vehicle parking, treehouses, school buses, a tiny house, a red house, and a yoga room. During your stay, we encourage you to explore the property. There are miles of machine-built mountain biking and cross country skiing trails available, free of charge . Our property abuts the vast GreenWoodlands Trail network. Visitors have access to our farm store, kitchen, ponds, streams, showers, communal fire pit & outdoor cooking areas. Our farm animals, orchards, and gardens create a unique vacation experience. We may have additional camping & lodging spots available that are not listed on the website. Please contact us directly at info@dacres.org or 603.786.2366 to determine if there is additional vacancy. Check our The Hummingbird Center website for additional info & upcoming events. Check in is between 5 and 9:00 p.m. Check in at the main house #218 Streeter Woods Road - if you arrive after 9pm please let us know in advance so we can make arrangements. We highly discourage late night arrivals at our remote location. Quiet hours after 10pm please! No sewer hookups. Secluded spots for vehicles require high clearance and dry conditions.

Sacred Nectar Sanctuary

10 sites · RVs, Tents280 acres · North Sandwich, Carroll

This abandoned Corn Farm was purchased by Townsend Thorndike off the original family that settled the land as a retreat to get away from it all. As time went on plans to sell off some of the land came up. Townsend's son, Nick, saw how the property could be tainted with conventional development and take away from the magic the land held. So, Nick decided to move back to the homestead to create an example of what a healthy life for the land and its inhabitants looks like. Hip Camp is the first step towards sharing and opening up the land to create an ecofriendly, Intentional Community. Nick and his ever-growing tribe are creating a holistic, educational, retreat, workshop, and event center where people can come to learn how to co-exist in a harmonious relationship with nature and each other. Thank you for being a part of the healing <3 We hope to hear from you <3

89%

(107)

Toad Hill

10 sites · Lodging45 acres · North Conway, Carroll

Toad Hill is a remote 45 acre property surrounded by pristine forest and located in the heart of The White Mountains. There is lots to do and see in the area. Hike, bike, snowmobile or ski from the door to waterfalls, ponds, or just around the property in search of birds and wildlife. Take a day trip to Province or Mountain Pond for both swimming and fly fishing. Toad hill also host a summer music festival and has beautiful sculptures around the property. Perfect for people trying to get away from life and into nature!

94%

(153)

F.a.C Campout

11 sites · Tents30 acres · Exeter, Rockingham

A shared space for the animals and the artist. We are working on becoming sustainable into the future where we can gather to work on our art in a loving natural and healthy environment. We welcome you to come relax and rejuvinate on this sacred ground. We ask you respectfully carry in carry out any trash. The farm can accommodate and accept your empty recyclables and compostable material (meat is NOT an allowed compost item). 3 bay commercial sink w/hot cold water access(n/a winter).Our family practices kindness and encourages community. #NFA ⚡

Champion Meadow Campground

37 sites · RVs, Tents14 acres · West Stewartstown, Coos

Learn more about this land:We are located right on the Connecticut River, with access to atv and snow machine trails, restaurants and a grocery store. We have a brand new bath house with hot showers, sinks and outside access to outside water. The fishing on the Connecticut River is simply amazing and all riverside sites have direct access to the river.

12 top campgrounds in New Hampshire

100%

(27)

Waterfront Woodsy Glamping

5 sites · Lodging27 acres · Bennington, Hillsborough

Find some info and links to a few of the unique accommodations on our property, in Southern NH, which is 27 acres on the Contoocook River and Powder Mill Pond. Be it swimming, kayaking, boating, sunning, hiking, biking, or fishing; spectacular fall foliage, and bird watching or winter sports like skiing, boarding, ice skating, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing,....take time out to enjoy what nature has to offer to the fullest, right here in your new backyard. Explore nature’s wonderland; starting with 27 acres of woods and waterfront beauty on Powder Mill Pond and the Contoocook River. During the warmer weather, you can hop in one of the kayaks, canoes, and paddle boats, (on-site for a small rental fee), sunbathe on the refreshing 30 ft. lily pad, or simply relax in the swing or hammock looking out over Mount Monadnock. During the winter, cross country ski, ice skate or fish or strap-on a pair of the complimentary snowshoes, ...while year round, enjoy sharing s’mores and stories by the fire pit!

Sacred Nectar Sanctuary

10 sites · RVs, Tents280 acres · North Sandwich, Carroll

This abandoned Corn Farm was purchased by Townsend Thorndike off the original family that settled the land as a retreat to get away from it all. As time went on plans to sell off some of the land came up. Townsend's son, Nick, saw how the property could be tainted with conventional development and take away from the magic the land held. So, Nick decided to move back to the homestead to create an example of what a healthy life for the land and its inhabitants looks like. Hip Camp is the first step towards sharing and opening up the land to create an ecofriendly, Intentional Community. Nick and his ever-growing tribe are creating a holistic, educational, retreat, workshop, and event center where people can come to learn how to co-exist in a harmonious relationship with nature and each other. Thank you for being a part of the healing <3 We hope to hear from you <3

Toad Hill

10 sites · Lodging45 acres · North Conway, Carroll

Toad Hill is a remote 45 acre property surrounded by pristine forest and located in the heart of The White Mountains. There is lots to do and see in the area. Hike, bike, snowmobile or ski from the door to waterfalls, ponds, or just around the property in search of birds and wildlife. Take a day trip to Province or Mountain Pond for both swimming and fly fishing. Toad hill also host a summer music festival and has beautiful sculptures around the property. Perfect for people trying to get away from life and into nature!

Unplugged

1 site · Lodging6 acres · Andover, Merrimack

I wanted a cabin in the woods forever and my boys built me this awesome cabin! Drive down in good weather (SUV), walk or snowshoe in winter, about 3-400 yards. Beautiful, DRY {No running water}, no electricity cabin. Called "Unplugged" for several reasons: No electricity, No internet and most phones don't work! Bring books! 16 x 20 with a loft with stairs. Queen bed in loft and futon downstairs. Has an outhouse. Stocked with basics for cooking on regular size grill, small grill and 2 burner camp stove. Cabin is well insulated, uses a Big Buddy heater for heat in winter.

F.a.C Campout

11 sites · Tents30 acres · Exeter, Rockingham

A shared space for the animals and the artist. We are working on becoming sustainable into the future where we can gather to work on our art in a loving natural and healthy environment. We welcome you to come relax and rejuvinate on this sacred ground. We ask you respectfully carry in carry out any trash. The farm can accommodate and accept your empty recyclables and compostable material (meat is NOT an allowed compost item). 3 bay commercial sink w/hot cold water access(n/a winter).Our family practices kindness and encourages community. #NFA ⚡

Off Grid Yurt Hurricane Mountain

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Conway, Carroll

Built this yurt two years ago as a place to warm up while skiing and snowmobiling in the winter. Yurt is located close to Black Cap parking lot for hiking and world class Mountain Biking. Very quiet and scenic rode yet only 2 miles from bustling North Conway. Learn more about this land: North Conway off grid Hurricane Mountain Road Freedom Yurt. Located 2 miles from Black Cap Mountain Trail. Surrounded by Conway Town Forest and White Mountain National Forest. World class mt biking trails and hiking. Extreme Quiet yet only 5 miles from North Conway Village and Fryeburg Maine. Winter Camping available. 1 mile snowshoe to yurt or ride your snowmobile. Propane Fireplace for Heat. Winter no vehicle access and no water. No Shower. New 2023 Starlink high speed internet.

The Hummingbird Center

39 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents200 acres · Grafton

The Hummingbird Center is an educational homestead and organic permaculture farm nestled in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. We offer a variety of lodging options including field camping, platform tent camping, vehicle parking, treehouses, school buses, a tiny house, a red house, and a yoga room. During your stay, we encourage you to explore the property. There are miles of machine-built mountain biking and cross country skiing trails available, free of charge . Our property abuts the vast GreenWoodlands Trail network. Visitors have access to our farm store, kitchen, ponds, streams, showers, communal fire pit & outdoor cooking areas. Our farm animals, orchards, and gardens create a unique vacation experience. We may have additional camping & lodging spots available that are not listed on the website. Please contact us directly at info@dacres.org or 603.786.2366 to determine if there is additional vacancy. Check our The Hummingbird Center website for additional info & upcoming events. Check in is between 5 and 9:00 p.m. Check in at the main house #218 Streeter Woods Road - if you arrive after 9pm please let us know in advance so we can make arrangements. We highly discourage late night arrivals at our remote location. Quiet hours after 10pm please! No sewer hookups. Secluded spots for vehicles require high clearance and dry conditions.

Champion Meadow Campground

37 sites · RVs, Tents14 acres · West Stewartstown, Coos

Learn more about this land:We are located right on the Connecticut River, with access to atv and snow machine trails, restaurants and a grocery store. We have a brand new bath house with hot showers, sinks and outside access to outside water. The fishing on the Connecticut River is simply amazing and all riverside sites have direct access to the river.

Someday Farm and Forest

16 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Canterbury, Merrimack

Once this property was part of a large chicken farm, the fields were hayed and still are. The meadow filled with water after some logging occurred about 70 years ago creating the swamp. Recently, a small farm has been built here that includes some alpacas, a llama, ducks, chickens, kitties and a rescue dog named Miss Oklahoma from her home state, commonly called 'Oakie', Beautiful farmland with livestock, including alpacas! An open field, forest, walking trails and a peaceful swamp with wildlife is all at your disposal while you are here at Someday Farm! We have a total of 12 sites for your enjoyment, there are a few sites here (Site 1, 5 and Site 12) that allow campers and tow behinds. We are in central NH only an hour from Boston off of I 93, and less than 30 miles away from the famous Lake Winnipesaukee, we are perched on a picturesque dirt road in the beautiful country town of Canterbury New Hampshire. Whether you are up for just hanging at your campsite, exploring the swamp, picnic in the field overlooking the swamp, visiting the animals, or visiting around town, hiking nearby trials, we are here for your stay! We have easy-to-access rustic style camping accommodations for all sized parties traveling with tents, travel trailers or small campers. All of our sites offer potable water, solar shower bags, parking, fire pits, and a picnic table. NEW THIS YEAR...We have a new Welcome Center! It will be complete with a game section, dry firewood bundles, replenished shower bags, water, fire starter kits, also, extra supplies for purchase such drinking water, bug spray and some homemade items, eggs, toiletries and some other items to purchase with cash (honor system) or paypal. Check it out! You don't need to purchase extras online if you'de rather pay here :) Also, New this year is Site 11, Should be ready mid to late July, Under the Stars, across from 9 and 10. And the new Common Area-Strickly foot traffic only, this is a space to enjoy the open sky with a table, firepit and a grill for anyone's use. If you don't want to bring a grill and don't want to cook on grates. It is a first come first serve basis. But maybe your neighbors' will all come and cook with you? New too! Cornhole!! Setup on weekends along the drive and next to the Common Area, find the bags in Welcome Center. Once you are confirmed an email is sent offering 30 places around the beautiful town that you may visit at your leisure, including Shaker Village, Canterbury Ale works, Canterbury Woods Golf course, Hackleboro Orchards, our own Canterbury Country Store-1 mile away, Cold Garden Sprits is a new small distillery that is fascinating! If you need more city life amenities like grocery stores or restaurants, the capitol city of Concord to the south, and the town of Tilton and Laconia to the north, are a breeze to access and are less than 20 minutes away. Direct bookings and advanced reservations are no problem, and we also try to accommodate last minute bookings whenever we can. Feel free to msg me or call for questions and information. Checkout our onsite shop (Someday Farm Market) at the barn for our own handmade/homemade items and some Alpaca products also for sale. Also, be sure to check out all the extras (you have to review the extras to purchase firewood) offered here while you are booking your stay! You can also msg me to purchase firewood and other items once you are on site. There is firewood in each site for your arrival, but if you use it you pay the $8.00, if you order it no worries it's there for you already, and extra can be bought and delivered during your stay.

98%

(187)

Stagecoach Falls

4 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Tamworth, Carroll

Welcome to Stagecoach Falls! Your very own private spot on the river. Bring your chairs and some firewood. A perfect spot to get away and relax with the sound of the river. A couple sites have new wooden decks for tents, Yoga or setup some chairs and just relax! These are new sites so we're still working on them. Enjoy your stay! 20 min to Conway Lots of shopping, restaurants, things to do 20 min to Winnipesaukee Lake 10 min to Ossipee Lake Tamworth Distilling is a few miles away Franconia Notch is just under an hour away 20 min to Rattlesnake mountain Mt Chocorua is minutes away Tamworth Farmers Market every Saturday 9a-12p New Hampshire Mushroom Company has tours every Sunday

Booked 1 time

Pemi Cabins

17 sites · Lodging1 acre · Lincoln, Grafton

Located in Lincoln, NH, Pemi Cabins offers a tranquil, family & pet-friendly retreat along the Pemigewasset River. Since the 1940s, we have provided 16 cozy 1-2 bedroom cabins & motel rooms, all featuring unique amenities like fireplaces and kitchens. Perfect for all travelers, our cabins are a gateway to outdoor adventures, with ski resorts & natural wonders nearby. Each season unveils a new reason to visit. From snowmobiling in winter, vibrant fall foliage, spring waterfalls, to summer mountain climbs, there’s something for everyone. On-site, guests can enjoy a playground, fire pits, picnic areas, & serene river views. Explore Lincoln and Woodstock’s shops & eateries, all just minutes away.

99%

(202)

Crooked Creek Hollow Farm

8 sites · Lodging, Tents85 acres · Richmond, Cheshire

We are a small southern New Hampshire farm nestled away in Richmond, specializing in forest-fed pork and free range poultry. We take pride in our commitment to raise wholesome, nutritious food for our community and neighbors while protecting and nurturing the land we call home. We strive to create a beautiful and diverse farm environment, and have fun doing it. We are the stewards of an 85 acre farm which is mostly covered by forest with some pasture and several running brooks. The pigs are rotated through movable paddocks which allows them to be pigs. We have a ton of wildlife on the property. We have a ton of wild turkey, deer, moose, fox, mink, beaver, raccoon, porcupine, and the occasional bear.

Available this weekend

Booked 1 time

Pemi Cabins

17 sites · Lodging1 acre · Lincoln, Grafton

Located in Lincoln, NH, Pemi Cabins offers a tranquil, family & pet-friendly retreat along the Pemigewasset River. Since the 1940s, we have provided 16 cozy 1-2 bedroom cabins & motel rooms, all featuring unique amenities like fireplaces and kitchens. Perfect for all travelers, our cabins are a gateway to outdoor adventures, with ski resorts & natural wonders nearby. Each season unveils a new reason to visit. From snowmobiling in winter, vibrant fall foliage, spring waterfalls, to summer mountain climbs, there’s something for everyone. On-site, guests can enjoy a playground, fire pits, picnic areas, & serene river views. Explore Lincoln and Woodstock’s shops & eateries, all just minutes away.

F.a.C Campout

11 sites · Tents30 acres · Exeter, Rockingham

A shared space for the animals and the artist. We are working on becoming sustainable into the future where we can gather to work on our art in a loving natural and healthy environment. We welcome you to come relax and rejuvinate on this sacred ground. We ask you respectfully carry in carry out any trash. The farm can accommodate and accept your empty recyclables and compostable material (meat is NOT an allowed compost item). 3 bay commercial sink w/hot cold water access(n/a winter).Our family practices kindness and encourages community. #NFA ⚡

Toad Hill

10 sites · Lodging45 acres · North Conway, Carroll

Toad Hill is a remote 45 acre property surrounded by pristine forest and located in the heart of The White Mountains. There is lots to do and see in the area. Hike, bike, snowmobile or ski from the door to waterfalls, ponds, or just around the property in search of birds and wildlife. Take a day trip to Province or Mountain Pond for both swimming and fly fishing. Toad hill also host a summer music festival and has beautiful sculptures around the property. Perfect for people trying to get away from life and into nature!

Waterfront Woodsy Glamping

5 sites · Lodging27 acres · Bennington, Hillsborough

Find some info and links to a few of the unique accommodations on our property, in Southern NH, which is 27 acres on the Contoocook River and Powder Mill Pond. Be it swimming, kayaking, boating, sunning, hiking, biking, or fishing; spectacular fall foliage, and bird watching or winter sports like skiing, boarding, ice skating, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing,....take time out to enjoy what nature has to offer to the fullest, right here in your new backyard. Explore nature’s wonderland; starting with 27 acres of woods and waterfront beauty on Powder Mill Pond and the Contoocook River. During the warmer weather, you can hop in one of the kayaks, canoes, and paddle boats, (on-site for a small rental fee), sunbathe on the refreshing 30 ft. lily pad, or simply relax in the swing or hammock looking out over Mount Monadnock. During the winter, cross country ski, ice skate or fish or strap-on a pair of the complimentary snowshoes, ...while year round, enjoy sharing s’mores and stories by the fire pit!

Sacred Nectar Sanctuary

10 sites · RVs, Tents280 acres · North Sandwich, Carroll

This abandoned Corn Farm was purchased by Townsend Thorndike off the original family that settled the land as a retreat to get away from it all. As time went on plans to sell off some of the land came up. Townsend's son, Nick, saw how the property could be tainted with conventional development and take away from the magic the land held. So, Nick decided to move back to the homestead to create an example of what a healthy life for the land and its inhabitants looks like. Hip Camp is the first step towards sharing and opening up the land to create an ecofriendly, Intentional Community. Nick and his ever-growing tribe are creating a holistic, educational, retreat, workshop, and event center where people can come to learn how to co-exist in a harmonious relationship with nature and each other. Thank you for being a part of the healing <3 We hope to hear from you <3

Dog-friendly getaways

100%

(27)

Waterfront Woodsy Glamping

5 sites · Lodging27 acres · Bennington, Hillsborough

Find some info and links to a few of the unique accommodations on our property, in Southern NH, which is 27 acres on the Contoocook River and Powder Mill Pond. Be it swimming, kayaking, boating, sunning, hiking, biking, or fishing; spectacular fall foliage, and bird watching or winter sports like skiing, boarding, ice skating, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing,....take time out to enjoy what nature has to offer to the fullest, right here in your new backyard. Explore nature’s wonderland; starting with 27 acres of woods and waterfront beauty on Powder Mill Pond and the Contoocook River. During the warmer weather, you can hop in one of the kayaks, canoes, and paddle boats, (on-site for a small rental fee), sunbathe on the refreshing 30 ft. lily pad, or simply relax in the swing or hammock looking out over Mount Monadnock. During the winter, cross country ski, ice skate or fish or strap-on a pair of the complimentary snowshoes, ...while year round, enjoy sharing s’mores and stories by the fire pit!

Toad Hill

10 sites · Lodging45 acres · North Conway, Carroll

Toad Hill is a remote 45 acre property surrounded by pristine forest and located in the heart of The White Mountains. There is lots to do and see in the area. Hike, bike, snowmobile or ski from the door to waterfalls, ponds, or just around the property in search of birds and wildlife. Take a day trip to Province or Mountain Pond for both swimming and fly fishing. Toad hill also host a summer music festival and has beautiful sculptures around the property. Perfect for people trying to get away from life and into nature!

Unplugged

1 site · Lodging6 acres · Andover, Merrimack

I wanted a cabin in the woods forever and my boys built me this awesome cabin! Drive down in good weather (SUV), walk or snowshoe in winter, about 3-400 yards. Beautiful, DRY {No running water}, no electricity cabin. Called "Unplugged" for several reasons: No electricity, No internet and most phones don't work! Bring books! 16 x 20 with a loft with stairs. Queen bed in loft and futon downstairs. Has an outhouse. Stocked with basics for cooking on regular size grill, small grill and 2 burner camp stove. Cabin is well insulated, uses a Big Buddy heater for heat in winter.

The Hummingbird Center

39 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents200 acres · Grafton

The Hummingbird Center is an educational homestead and organic permaculture farm nestled in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. We offer a variety of lodging options including field camping, platform tent camping, vehicle parking, treehouses, school buses, a tiny house, a red house, and a yoga room. During your stay, we encourage you to explore the property. There are miles of machine-built mountain biking and cross country skiing trails available, free of charge . Our property abuts the vast GreenWoodlands Trail network. Visitors have access to our farm store, kitchen, ponds, streams, showers, communal fire pit & outdoor cooking areas. Our farm animals, orchards, and gardens create a unique vacation experience. We may have additional camping & lodging spots available that are not listed on the website. Please contact us directly at info@dacres.org or 603.786.2366 to determine if there is additional vacancy. Check our The Hummingbird Center website for additional info & upcoming events. Check in is between 5 and 9:00 p.m. Check in at the main house #218 Streeter Woods Road - if you arrive after 9pm please let us know in advance so we can make arrangements. We highly discourage late night arrivals at our remote location. Quiet hours after 10pm please! No sewer hookups. Secluded spots for vehicles require high clearance and dry conditions.

Sacred Nectar Sanctuary

10 sites · RVs, Tents280 acres · North Sandwich, Carroll

This abandoned Corn Farm was purchased by Townsend Thorndike off the original family that settled the land as a retreat to get away from it all. As time went on plans to sell off some of the land came up. Townsend's son, Nick, saw how the property could be tainted with conventional development and take away from the magic the land held. So, Nick decided to move back to the homestead to create an example of what a healthy life for the land and its inhabitants looks like. Hip Camp is the first step towards sharing and opening up the land to create an ecofriendly, Intentional Community. Nick and his ever-growing tribe are creating a holistic, educational, retreat, workshop, and event center where people can come to learn how to co-exist in a harmonious relationship with nature and each other. Thank you for being a part of the healing <3 We hope to hear from you <3

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

97%

(80)

White Mountain National Forest

Bartlett, New Hampshire

100%

(16)

Franconia Notch State Park

Lincoln, New Hampshire

100%

(6)

Umbagog Lake State Park

Colebrook, New Hampshire

100%

(14)

Pawtuckaway State Park

Raymond, New Hampshire

100%

(5)

Pillsbury State Park

Bradford, New Hampshire

100%

(6)

White Lake State Park

Center Ossipee, New Hampshire

100%

(4)

Crawford Notch State Park

Bartlett, New Hampshire

100%

(4)

Moose Brook State Park

Gorham, New Hampshire

100%

(3)

Lake Francis State Park

Camping in New Hampshire guide

Home to Mount Washington, the highest mountain in the northeast, and brimming with lakes, rivers, and miles of hiking trails, New Hampshire serves up four-season fun for outdoor enthusiasts. From hiking, mountain biking, backpacking, fishing, and swimming in summer to cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and downhill skiing in winter, New Hampshire has something for every type of traveler whether you’re going solo or looking for a family adventure. New Hampshire state parks offer a wide variety of camping experiences from primitive tent sites to lakeside RV spots with prime mountain views.

Where to Go

Mount Washington

Sitting at 6,288 feet in eastern New Hampshire, Mount Washington is the tallest peak in New England, famous for its extreme weather. (The highest recorded wind speed outside of a tornado, 231 miles per hour, was measured at the Mount Washington Observatory atop the summit.) Mount Washington is on the Appalachian Trail and visitors can hike, drive, or take the Mount Washington Cog Railway up to the summit.

Franconia Notch State Park

In the heart of the White Mountains, Franconia Notch State Park is one of the most family-friendly state parks in New Hampshire and packed with natural wonders including Flume Gorge, Cloudland Falls, and Echo Lake. Lafayette Place Campground is a nice family campground right in the center of the park, near many trailheads and top sights, with a camp store and 97 campsites ideal for tent campers. Nearby Cannon Mountain RV Park offers seven RV sites with full hook-ups and a dump station.

White Mountain National Forest

The 800,000-acre White Mountain National Forest offers some of the best camping in the state. Renowned for its mountain scenery, abundant wildlife, and stunning fall foliage, the park is home to over a thousand miles of trails that weave through the rugged terrain for hikers, mountain bikers, snowshoers, ATVs, and snowmobiles. Overnight visitors will find 23 national forest campgrounds, backcountry huts, and cabin rentals.

When to Go

Summer through early fall is the best time for camping, hiking, canoeing, and kayaking in New Hampshire. Snow tends to linger on peaks into early June, and mosquitoes can be the most troublesome in July. Fall, when the changing leaves are at their peak, is an especially popular time to visit. Be sure to make camping reservations during this time well in advance. Some New Hampshire state park campgrounds, including Lafayette Place in Franconia Notch, remain open year-round, although off-season services are limited.

Know Before You Go

Camping reservations can be made up to 11 months in advance online or over the phone for New Hampshire state parks. Rates vary by the campground, with senior rates available. Monadnock State Park, Bear Brook State Park, Pawtuckaway State Park, and White Lake State Park feature some of the most popular New Hampshire campgrounds; advanced reservations are strongly recommended.
Many New Hampshire state parks have pet restrictions. Some do not allow them at all and others prohibit them on beaches, swimming areas, and picnic areas.
Numerous backcountry campsites and shelters exist in the White Mountains. Most are free to use as long as you adhere to White Mountain National Forest backcountry camping rules.
Weather in New Hampshire can be challenging and unpredictable. Come prepared with rain gear and extra layers, even in summer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, New Hampshire is an excellent destination for camping. With a variety of landscapes, including the White Mountains, numerous lakes, and vast forests, there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. The state offers a range of camping options, such as state parks, private campgrounds, and remote backcountry sites. You can find more information about camping in New Hampshire at Hipcamp.

In New Hampshire, it is not legal to camp anywhere you want. Camping is allowed in designated campgrounds and specific areas within state parks, forests, and private lands. Dispersed or wild camping is allowed in some parts of the White Mountain National Forest, but there are rules and regulations you must follow, such as camping at least 200 feet away from trails and water sources and staying at least a quarter mile away from established campgrounds and huts. To find campgrounds and camping spots in New Hampshire, you can explore options on Hipcamp or visit the New Hampshire State Parks camping page for more information on state park camping.

Camping fees in New Hampshire State Parks vary depending on the park and the type of campsite. Prices generally range from $25 to $50 per night for tent and RV sites. Some parks may charge additional fees for amenities or services. For more information on specific parks and their camping fees, visit New Hampshire State Parks.