The White Mountains region near Stow, Maine sits at elevations ranging from 400 to 4,000 feet, creating distinct microclimates that affect camping conditions throughout the season. This area experiences cooler nights even in summer, with temperatures often dropping 15-20°F after sunset. The region's unique position along the Maine-New Hampshire border provides access to over 800,000 acres of protected forestland where glamping options blend wilderness with modern comforts.
What to do
Tubing adventures: Eastern Slope Camping Area provides direct river access for tubing adventures on the Saco River. "We love that it is right on the Saco river, has two beaches, the only con is the park for kids only has swings," shares Jennifer O. The campground also offers tube rentals and shuttle service.
Hiking accessible trails: White Ledge Campground serves as an excellent base for hikers with trails starting directly from the campground. Timothy M. notes, "Simple campsite. Water spigot and vault toilets, dumpsters all within easy walking distance of all sites. Great spot to start Carter Ledge Trail to hike Three Sisters and Mount Chocorua."
Swimming in mountain waters: Papoose Pond Family Campground offers both pond and pool swimming options. Amy W. explains, "We've been camping as a large group here every year for 12 years. Perfect spot to relax and get away from everything. Great amount of amenities and privacy."
What campers like
Riverside camping spots: On the Saco Family Campground features premium riverside sites where campers can enjoy water activities. Christopher K. shared, "Beautiful campground, super friendly owners, amazing Saco River access, and crazy reasonable rates per night. The river was perfect, sandy bottom, refreshing current, we anchored ourselves for a bit then pulled it up and just floated down river."
Privacy between sites: Lakeside Pines Campground offers waterfront sites on Long Lake. "We had a beautiful waterfront campsite (Site 113). The lake is gorgeous. Rocks make direct access to the water from the site difficult, but there is a beach for water access not too far away," reports Katie B., though she notes sites lack privacy barriers between them.
Wildlife encounters: Moose Brook State Park Campground provides opportunities for wildlife viewing. As Josh R. describes, "We chose this campground because it was dog friendly. Our site was very private and secluded, but close to bathrooms and showers. Facilities very clean! Quiet and peaceful at night. Very close to NH 4K hikes."
What you should know
Winter accessibility: Most campgrounds in the Stow area operate seasonally, typically from mid-May through mid-October. Covered Bridge Campground offers a slightly extended season. According to Jean C., "This National Forest campground in Albany, NH is just west of Conway on the Kancamagus, which means it's a great location for hiking, tubing, fishing, and even shopping."
Height restrictions: Some campgrounds have access limitations. At Covered Bridge, Jae H. warns, "Covered bridge has 7.9' height restriction from the main scenic highway. We had to go out to Conway and drive back in."
Bear awareness: Wildlife encounters require proper preparation. At Jellystone Park Glen Ellis, Liz S. reports, "There were 2 active bears while we were there. They circled our camper at night. It was incredible to watch. Of course we never left any food out!"
Tips for camping with families
Activities for children: Jellystone Park Glen Ellis offers numerous family-friendly amenities. Joseph N. explains, "Located between the Ellis River and the Saco River, this campground offers so many fantastic amenities. One of the biggest ones that we took lots of advantage of is the swimming and tubing on the Saco River."
Daily entertainment schedule: Papoose Pond runs organized activities throughout the week. Jessica W. shares, "They have weekly events that we love! Tuesday trivia, Wednesday beach party, Thursday dance party, and Friday karaoke- the latter being the most fun!"
Hayride options: Some campgrounds offer evening entertainment specifically for children. Joseph N. mentions, "At night they did wagon rides around the campground which our little ones really enjoyed."
Tips from RVers
Site selection concerns: Eastern Slope Camping Area can be challenging for larger vehicles. Samme C. advises, "Big RV will have trouble maneuvering in here because it is tight. On to the good. Each site (except beach) has a wood canopy, picnic bench, electrical, water spigot & designated fire pit."
Weather considerations: Seasonal flooding affects some campgrounds. Lou S. warns of issues at Eastern Slope: "got flooded campground not prepared to handle the situation or help campers."
Hookup availability: Most glamping close to Stow, Maine is off-grid. For those needing hookups, Lakeside Pines offers options. Jeremy G. notes: "Full hookups for boondockers. Dump station, bath house, laundry facilities, and fire pits throughout campsites. Narrow driving lanes for inexperienced campers."
