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The White Mountains region around Gilead, Maine provides camping options across public lands, established campgrounds, and dispersed locations. Campers can find accommodations at Hastings Campground, a U.S. Forest Service facility in the Evans Notch area, or explore dispersed camping at White Mountains Camping on Little Larry Road. The area supports tent camping, RV sites with hookups, and cabin rentals at facilities like Timberland Campground in nearby Shelburne, New Hampshire. Most developed campgrounds operate seasonally from May through mid-October when weather conditions permit overnight stays.
Seasonal considerations affect campground availability throughout the region, with most established sites closing by late October or early November. Dispersed camping areas require no reservations but offer minimal amenities, while developed campgrounds like Hastings provide fire rings, picnic tables, and vault toilets. Many campgrounds feature water pumps or spigots for drinking water, though some primitive sites require visitors to filter water from nearby streams. Cell service varies significantly across the area, with some locations offering limited connectivity. A camper who visited White Mountains Camping on Little Larry Road noted, "Even had a cell signal that gave data with a weboost."
Campers frequently mention the peaceful nature of sites in this region, particularly those located on forest service roads. The primitive sites along Little Larry Road receive consistently high ratings for privacy and natural setting. One visitor described it as "8 huge, beautiful campsites in the heavily wooded Evans Notch section of The White Mountain National Forest. It's easy to forget there are other people camping on other sites because they're so far apart." Some developed campgrounds like Timberland have specific considerations, as a reviewer cautioned about the proximity to train tracks: "There are active tracks literally on the other side of the line of sites and there are freight trains that come through regularly including all hours of the nights." Most campgrounds in the area provide access to hiking trails, scenic views, and water features such as streams or rivers.
"This campground is just north bordering the White Mountain NF. Close to northern trailheads. NH take care in keeping their parks orderly. Nice site."
"In addition to our designated spot, we had access to a large open space behind that many people utilized to play games or expand their camping area."
from $35 - $45 / night
Check Availability"This is a perfectly situated campground. Just off the main road connection Gorham and North Conway (Route 16), this campground is just minutes from town but has a wonderful wilderness feel."
"My family of 4 tent camped for 1 night as we were making our way from Maine back to Indiana as part of our summer ‘24 New England camping adventure road trip."
from $30 - $44 / night
Check Availability"Close to the main road but not too noisy. There are train tracks on the property but no trains went thru this weekend. Beautiful walking path right by the river!"
"There is also a great playground and a beautiful nature trail along the Androscoggin River. The campground tends to have a mix of tents and RV folks."
from $30 - $67 / night
Check Availability"These campsites are located on a dead end dirt road. The campsites are spread out so you are not on top of each other (I think there are only 8 sites on the road.) "
"Highwater trail with bridge close by. Great stars. Creek runs through road near sites good for getting water to filter or washing. Trailhead at end of road."
"It was unfortunate that my site was close to the main road, but that was my fault and it didn't really change how my weekend was. They have remote sites for camping, see video. "
"While the campground looks to be primarily RV camping from the road, there are many tent sites tucked away in the trees and even two sites that are walk-in only and are situated right on the Androscoggin"
from $22 - $79 / night
Check Availability"Into the Whites from West Bethel, Crocker Pond is an off the beaten path car camping destination. Beautiful place to set up camp for a night to 14 days."
"With no one else around we thought, “welcome to the perfect campsite.” Each site offers a picnic table, fire ring, and access to the pond."
from $18 / night
Check Availability"There were plenty of sites to choose from and most (not all) had access to the river as well as a fire ring. Sites were on a dirt road, but it was quiet for the most part."
"Couldn’t ask for better sites, both sites 9 & 12 were very private and only a short walk through the woods to setup camp along the river."
"This campground is privately owned and is situated in an amazing spot in the mountains of Western Maine."
"This small, private campground just outside Grafton Notch State Park offers clean, level, quiet sites with hot showers. If you don’t need wi-fi and hook-ups, this is the place for you!"
from $28 / night
Check Availability"It’s located in Evan’s Notch, so close to many wonderful hiking trails and next to lovely Basin Pond. So quiet!"
"This campground has a day use area with a boat launch and picnic area on the right as you drive in. Non-motorized boats are allowed on the water and it’s a great swim spot in the summer."
from $30 / night
Check Availability"Situated just off the Wild River and off of major roads, Hastings was incredibly peaceful while we were there."
"A small campground located at the northern end of Evan’s Notch, close to some great hiking trails. Pit toilets. Very quiet."
from $24 / night
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TravelerNo toilet, no showers, no Wi-Fi, no electricity Love it I’ve been primitive camping since before I could walk and def glad this app exist
First use of the app and found the perfect spot away from my friends Airbnb and still close enough to go hangout with them. The site is the perfect size for a single or couple and it gives off the right kind of privacy
Thanks Dyrt
ScoutWent on a weekend and it was still very peaceful! Lots to do on such a beautiful back road. We stayed at two different sites each night we were there and both were equally beautiful and peaceful
TravelerPros: We have the p lube nearly to ourselves, thus it was very similar to dispersed camping. Nice little campground with two small ponds (One for fishing, the other for swimming). Nothing very remarkable, though.
Cons: As others have mentioned, if you want flush toilets and pay showers, you have to either stay at the more crowded, larger loop or walk across the highway to get to those amenities.
ScoutWe just came back from a big family weekend there. We had 5 sites with 19 people(including children). This is by far the most rundown campground I've stayed! Only 1 bathroom facility was functioning. Of the 3 times I tried taking a shower, I only succeeded 1 time. The other 2 times(once at night and once the following morning at 6am) I only got drops coming out of the hot and cold faucets. I tried the only 2 stalls. Speaking of bathrooms...these have not been updated since the 60s-early 70s when I was camping with the same style bathroom facilities. The children's playground should be condemned!!! At least 25% of the wood is rotted. Some steps are missing from ladders. My granddaughter was swinging in the childs swing, the bottom unlatched and she fell through the bottom. If she wasn't monkey like in holding on she would have done a face plant to the ground. After looking at the swing, I found the plastic latch broken! 2 positives: the campsites are very nice! and the beach is great! Bottom line, these owners are not putting any money back into the campground and it's facilities. They are running it into the ground. I won't be coming back again!
TravelerIt was everything we were looking for, right on the river, quiet and clean, the section we stayed in was all tent camping so we weren’t sandwiched in between a bunch of RVs blocking the view. There was no lights, generators or loud music. Alcohol wasn’t permitted so that really cuts down on a lot of unnecessary nonsense. Pets are permitted and our dog loved it. It was very pleasant and relaxing. Can’t wait to go back.
GuideStayed 8 nights with complete solitude. Bugs weren't too bad. There were plenty of dead birch trees and beech trees for firewood. Not any evergreens though. Site 16 has two campsites. I took the further one with plenty of room. Good size fire pit, but people before me left some large pieces of wood not completely put out along with lit coals.
ScoutWe stayed in site #5. It was grassy and had a little creek running next to it that was lovely to listen to.
TravelerHonestly a wonderful place, gorgeous little lake and beach, incredibly helpful and friendly staff. Note though if you’re staying in one of the new RV sites, it is nowhere near the bathrooms or bathhouse - like a 10+ minute walk, and I wouldn’t want to do it at night. The RV section is clearly still very very new, and they’re working out the kinks, so only go here if you’ve got a self-sufficient RV and don’t need bathrooms. There are all 3 hookups, though the sewer hookup was so far back our short hose did not reach. But they do sell extensions at the visitors center, and there is a dump station, though we had to call to have them unlock it. Overall a great place, but be aware if you’re looking for a place with both full RV hookups and bathrooms, this is not it!
TravelerWe just got home from our week at Fransted Family Campground and am already looking forward to returning next year. The location of the campground was perfect - especially for exploring the Franconia Notch region. There is a nice mix of RV and tent sites. The tent sites are well shaded and felt spaced out compared to other places I have camped. We had a site on the stream which was nice. Fell asleep each night listening to the water. I only used one of the bathhouses, but it was clean. Showers were clean (separate rooms). Customer service was off the charts. So friendly and helpful. There was a number we could call to get firewood if the store was closed and they were also so nice about it too. There is free WiFi, but it really only works up near the front office. But there is a beautiful pavilion with nice furniture to relax on if you needed to go and use WiFi (or just relax for that matter). We didn’t have kids with us, but there are a lot of lawn games, a playground, courts and field available. Overall, very quiet but Al family friendly. I will definitely be back.
Campgrounds near Gilead, Maine feature dense woodlands at elevations ranging from 700 to 1,200 feet along the Androscoggin River valley. Summer temperatures typically reach 75-85°F during the day, dropping to 50-60°F at night. Many campsites in this region of western Maine provide access to the Evans Notch section of White Mountain National Forest, where camping is available from mid-May through mid-October.
Hiking on scenic trails: Basin Campground serves as an excellent base for exploring Evans Notch hiking options. One visitor noted, "Just a few miles north of Pinkham Notch visitor center, where trailhead for Mt Washington is and where you can grab a shower downstairs." Trails range from casual walks to challenging summit climbs.
Water activities on ponds and rivers: Crocker Pond offers swimming and fishing opportunities within walking distance of all campsites. "Beautiful views and access to pond. We got there at noon on Saturday and there were two sites left, we got one on the water, but it filled up right away," explained one camper who appreciated the water access.
Wildlife observation opportunities: The White Mountains region hosts diverse wildlife including moose and black bears. A visitor to Dolly Copp Campground reported, "There are signs to watch for moose throughout the forest as they are definitely around." Morning and evening hours offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
Mountain biking on forest trails: Several campgrounds connect to mountain biking networks. A visitor to Moose Brook State Park mentioned, "There are also many hiking trails in the park and a ton of great mountain biking terrain in the park and accessible from the park. The local Coos Cycling Club maintains the trails and is constantly improving and creating more terrain."
Privacy between campsites: White Mountains Camping on Little Larry Road receives praise for its secluded sites. A camper observed, "8 huge, beautiful campsites in the heavily wooded Evans Notch section of The White Mountains National Forest. It's easy to forget there are other people camping on other sites because they're so far apart."
Clean facilities at established campgrounds: Visitors frequently comment on well-maintained bathrooms and shower facilities. A guest at Grafton Notch Campground stated, "The showers were hot and spacious. We were in Site 3 and it was perfectly distanced between the store and bathrooms."
Natural water features: Campsites with water access rank highly among visitors. At Town Hall Road Dispersed camping area, one reviewer shared, "We found our spot which had some river access and it was gorgeous. It had an above and below spot which hosted our two tents."
Well-designed fire rings and cooking areas: Many established campgrounds provide fire pits with cooking grates. A camper at Basin Campground noted, "The fireplaces have a cool double decker grill for cooking. It was very quiet as most people are there to hike and fish."
Weather considerations: The White Mountains experience rapid weather changes. A camper at Timberland Campground noted, "Not allowed to bring your own wood for fire, they have enough onsite and it's priced fairly." Being prepared for temperature fluctuations is essential.
Wildlife safety protocols: Bear activity requires proper food storage. At Dolly Copp Campground, a ranger "confirmed that black bear are prominent and will venture across picnic tables and sites, so be certain to store food & toiletries safely per rules!"
Water availability varies by location: Some sites require water filtering from natural sources. A visitor to Little Larry Road mentioned, "Creek runs through road near sites good for getting water to filter or washing."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies throughout the region. At White Birches Camping Park, a reviewer explained, "They require a $10 CASH deposit for access to the gate key which we weren't aware of when we got here and I couldn't find any mention of it on their website."
Look for campgrounds with activities: White Birches Camping Park offers family-friendly amenities. A visitor noted, "Quite a few activities for kids- bounce house, play ground and heated swimming pool. On Saturday nights around 7pm they blow up a projector for movie night which was a pleasant surprise."
Choose locations with swimming options: Many families appreciate water features for recreation. At Moose Brook State Park, a camper reported, "Perfect for family camping! Fishing, swimming, river walks, biking and movie nights!"
Consider proximity to attractions: Some campgrounds offer easy access to family destinations. A reviewer explained, "Less than 40 minutes in either direction are Story Land and Santa's Village, NH family destinations for generations."
Select sites with adequate shade: Wooded sites provide protection from summer sun. A visitor to White Birches Camping Park observed, "Tent sites are well spaced and almost all of them are in the shade which is a huge bonus!"
Check campground road access: Some forest roads have limitations. At Town Hall Road Dispersed, a camper shared, "The road was not as bad as I anticipated. There was room for my Jeep Grand Cherokee towing a squaredrop camper to pass the very few oncoming vehicles we encountered."
Be aware of electrical limitations: Power capacity varies between campgrounds. At Hastings Campground, a visitor noted, "The camp sites were all large, wide and flat. The grounds were pristine and well maintained."
Consider site privacy: Some campgrounds offer better spacing between RV sites. A reviewer at Grafton Notch Campground reported, "Sites are gravel, level, and have enough trees to afford privacy between sites."
Know your hookup requirements: Campgrounds offer varying levels of service. At Dolly Copp Campground, a visitor mentioned, "Tucked away in a beautiful area of the Whites this site is for all hikers. With trails leading to the Wild River Wilderness right from your campsite plus lots of other gems along the road."
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the camping options at Gilead?
The Gilead area offers diverse camping experiences for all preferences. Crocker Pond provides secluded car camping with seven sites (five directly on the water) and allows stays up to 14 days. For RV travelers, Bethel Outdoor Adventure and Campground offers full hook-up pull-through sites for large rigs, while also providing grassy shaded sites for tent campers. Additional options include riverfront camping, private wooded sites, and state park campgrounds throughout the broader Western Maine and White Mountains region.
What amenities are available at Camp Gilead?
Campgrounds in the Gilead region offer varied amenities to enhance your outdoor experience. Grafton Notch Campground features 15 well-wooded sites with access to hiking trails and natural sightseeing spots. Timberland Campground provides beautiful walking paths along the river. Many area campgrounds offer water access, with options like Crawford Notch Campground featuring riverside sites and 60 acres of hiking trails. Facilities typically include restrooms, picnic tables, and fire rings, with some locations offering wood sales, boat rentals, and shower facilities.
When is the best time to visit Gilead for camping?
The prime camping season in Gilead and the surrounding region runs from late spring through early fall. Mollidgewock State Park Campground shines in late spring with beautiful wildflowers dotting grassy campsites. Most private campgrounds like Lakeside Pines Campground operate from May through October. Many campgrounds in the area, including Grafton Notch Campground, specifically operate from mid-May through Columbus Day weekend. Summer offers warm days perfect for water activities, while September brings spectacular fall foliage with fewer crowds. Be prepared for ticks in spring and early summer.
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