Best Campgrounds near Albany, NH

Albany, New Hampshire camping options include several established campgrounds and dispersed sites within the White Mountain National Forest. Located at approximately 1,500 feet elevation, the area experiences typical New England weather patterns with summer highs averaging in the 70s°F and significantly cooler temperatures in spring and fall. Winter camping isn't widely available as most campgrounds in the region close between mid-October and early May.

What to do

Hike directly from your site: At Covered Bridge Campground, you can access the Boulder Loop Trail without driving anywhere. "Great campground well hidden between the river and the boulder loop trail. Perfect place to hike, relax by the water, then into a comfy compground," notes Jae H. The trail offers views of the surrounding mountains and connects directly to several campsites.

Cool off in the Swift River: The Swift River runs through multiple camping areas and provides refreshing swimming opportunities. "There is access to clean fresh water and a beautiful river which we swam and played in everyday," shares John H. about White Ledge Campground. Water levels vary seasonally, with late summer typically having lower water.

Tube down the Saco: Many campgrounds offer access to the Saco River for tubing. At Saco River Camping Area, "you can take a short walk to the pavilion and put a tube in and float the river back around to the beach area. We did it 4 times!" says Samantha. Several campgrounds provide tube rentals and shuttle services for drop-offs upstream.

What campers like

Spacious, wooded sites: The campsites at Jigger Johnson Campground offer plenty of room. "Sites are large and level, some offering access to the Swift River. They've cut/thinned a lot of the trees around sites on the interior of the loop," writes Jean C. Many campsites throughout the region feature fire rings, picnic tables, and enough space for multiple tents.

Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention the well-maintained bathrooms and shower facilities. "The bathroom facilities are so clean! There are great hiking trails right on the campsite. Chipmunks surround you at all times, which was pretty epic and magical!" reports Michelle K. about Dry River Campground.

Free dispersed camping options: For those seeking a more rustic experience without fees, Town Hall Road Dispersed offers riverside camping. "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. It was clean, quiet and other campers were friendly as well," shares Alex S. These free sites have no amenities but provide direct river access.

What you should know

Wildlife precautions required: Bears are active in the area, and proper food storage is essential. At Danforth Bay Camping & RV Resort, one camper mentioned seeing bears regularly: "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!"

Site reservation timing: Most established campgrounds in the region fill quickly during summer months. "Mid-Oct to Dec 1 sites are walk-in only. Pre-register online and bring your print-out with you to save yourself some time," advises a camper about Dry River. Jigger Johnson operates on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early is recommended.

Limited cell service: Many camping areas have no cell coverage. "No cell service or wifi. Bring cash or check to pay your camping fee," notes one reviewer. At Covered Bridge, a camper reported: "Very spotty Verizon cell coverage and no TMobile service at all. Better coverage for both carriers near the top of the boulder loop trail."

Tips for camping with families

Swimming beaches for kids: White Lake State Park Campground offers a sandy beach with gradual entry. "The lake is clear, the swimming area is shallow for quite a distance so you can feel comfortable with kids, and there is a separate boat launch area," writes Jean C. The campground also rents kayaks and paddle boats.

Bathroom proximity: When camping with children, choosing sites near restrooms can be helpful. "I had a site next to the bathroom, which was very helpful and I felt confident letting my children go to the bathroom alone," reports Stephanie C. about White Lake State Park.

Playgrounds and activities: Some campgrounds offer organized activities for children. At Glen Ellis Family Campground, "They have a great mix of tents, pop-ups, trailers and RVs. Quiet and private sites with a lot of space to stretch out. All of this is great but what brings me back is the swimming hole in the Saco River," says Brian G.

Tips from RVers

Site selection challenges: Many campgrounds in the Albany area have limitations for larger RVs. "We had site Cove 31 which is listed as an RV site. This site was very large. With our 20 foot trailer we could still fit our Ford 150 and Subaru Forrester in front of it and still had room for another car," notes Norma S. about Covered Bridge Campground.

Access road considerations: Some camping areas have narrow access roads that can be difficult for larger rigs. "The road in for RVs is not terrific. There is about a 1/2 mile that is mostly one lane (with a drop off on one side) and if someone is coming decisions have to be made," cautions another camper about Covered Bridge.

Limited hookups: Many campsites in the White Mountains National Forest don't offer full hookups. When available, make reservations well in advance. "There are no hookups and no dump station. Sites are close together. There are also a group camping area and a few family camping sites," explains one reviewer about White Lake State Park.