If you want the convenience of camping, but love the basic nature of backpacking, Passaconaway might be a good fit for you. The 30 or so sites are nestled among a grove of tall, white pines and other mixed hardwoods. The campground borders the Kancamangus Highway on one side, and the tranquil Swift River on the other.
The sites are level and clean, and many are large enough to pitch two large tents (we use an 8 and 6 man). Plentiful trees for hanging up hammocks. Fire pits and picnic tables at every site. The toilets and water set up is where the rustic adjective enters. The toilets are pit toilets--basically glorified outhouses. There is not any electricity anywhere (great if you like your peace and quiet). There are pumps that provide clean, fresh, cold water interspersed through the campground. There is a nice little picnic shelter that would be great for a rainy day for eating and hanging out. Apparently, coin operated showers are available 1 mile down the road at Jigger Johnson Campground. Additionally, there is ZERO cell service for at least 6 miles.
One of the hidden gems about this spot is the hiking trail to Church Pond that leaves from the campground. It is a beautiful, 2.2 mile round trip hike to some wild spots, with abundant moose sign. It would be stunning in the autumn.
Additionally, the campground is about halfway between Lincoln and Conway on the Kancamangus, which makes it close to many great waterfalls, hiking trail heads, and other natural wonders. However,it is NOT close to any stores or camp stores, just an FYI.
The biggest drawback to this campground would be road noise--but we picked a site that didn't border the Kancamangus and it was fine. The car sounds also seemed to die down after 10 at night. We loved our last night here (a Sunday night) when there were only 2 other people in the campground. It was so quiet and peaceful. Definitely worth looking into if you don't need fancy facilities. And the price is great!
