Best Campgrounds in New Hampshire: 2026 Guide

New Hampshire packs an outsized amount of mountain camping into a small state. The White Mountain National Forest dominates the northern half, with Mount Washington — the highest peak in the Northeast at 6,288 feet — as its crown. The campgrounds here sit along rushing rivers, beside forest ponds, and at the base of peaks that challenge hikers with some of the most unpredictable weather in the world. It's compact, accessible from Boston and New York, and offers camping that rivals the best of New England.

Why New Hampshire Stands Out

The White Mountain National Forest is the draw. Over 800,000 acres of hardwood and spruce forest harbor campgrounds that range from large family-friendly facilities to remote backcountry sites. The Kancamagus Highway — one of America's most scenic drives — threads past several campgrounds, and the Appalachian Trail crosses through the heart of the forest. Fall foliage here is world-famous, and camping during peak color (late September through early October) is a New England rite of passage. The campgrounds are well-maintained, the trails are legendary, and the mountains are real mountains despite their modest elevations.

Top Campgrounds to Explore

Dolly Copp

A historic, large-facility campground six miles south of Gorham at the base of Mount Washington. Dolly Copp accommodates a range of campers and serves as the premier base for Presidential Range hiking.

Covered Bridge

In a thick forest along one of New Hampshire's most scenic drives, Covered Bridge provides access to the heart of the White Mountain National Forest with classic New England charm.

Sugarloaf 1

A quiet, remote getaway in the northwoods near the western base of Mount Washington, three miles east of Twin Mountain. Perfect for those seeking solitude with peak access.

Campton Campground

A large, accommodating facility near the southern edge of the White Mountains with kid-friendly activities nearby — an excellent family basecamp for exploring the region.

Russell Pond Campground

Off the beaten path, nestled into the hillside overlooking Russell Pond — a popular boating and fishing site with regular fish stocking. Quiet and scenic.

Basin Campground

In a rustic, remote part of the White Mountains about 15 miles north of Fryeburg, Maine. A small facility with access to hiking, fishing, and mountain solitude.

Cold River

Another small, remote campground in the White Mountains near the Maine border, offering peaceful forest camping along the Cold River with excellent hiking access.

Big Rock

With 28 individual wooded sites featuring picnic tables and tent pads, Big Rock offers a well-organized camping experience in the White Mountain National Forest.

Planning Tips

Peak season is July through mid-October. Fall foliage camping (late September) requires booking months ahead — this is the most popular time. Mount Washington's weather is extreme and unpredictable even in summer; be prepared for winter conditions above treeline any month. The Kancamagus Highway campgrounds fill early on summer weekends. Black flies are brutal in June; mosquitoes follow in July. Most campgrounds close by mid-October. A parking pass is required for many White Mountain trailheads and recreation areas.

Find More

Browse all New Hampshire campgrounds on our New Hampshire camping page, or explore the full campground directory to plan your next trip.