Campton area campgrounds sit within the foothills of the White Mountains at elevations ranging from 700-1,500 feet, creating distinct seasonal camping conditions. Summer nights often drop below 55°F even when daytime temperatures reach the 80s. Tent sites throughout the region typically feature packed dirt or pine needle floors with varying degrees of privacy between campsites.
What to do
Hiking from camp: Waterville Campground offers direct access to mountain trails. "5 - 4000 foot mountains to hike," notes Michael L., making it an excellent basecamp for serious hikers.
River activities: Baker River Campground provides water recreation directly from camp. "There was a playground area for kids, horseshoe area and a net for volleyball next to the bathroom/showers. There were tubes and a picnic table at the top of the beach area, we ended tubing down the river one day," shares Isabella K.
Wildlife watching: White Lake State Park Campground features resident loons on its lake. "The views from the lake are incredible. The beach area is very nice and has lots of tables and grills. We were able to hear the loons calling on the lake at night too," reports Amanda.
Mountain biking: Country Bumpkins Campground offers access to nearby trail systems. "Great little campground with spots for both campers and tents right along the river, ample parking with great surrounding sights of New Hampshire," explains Frankie C.
What campers like
Private river sites: Pine Haven provides waterfront camping with natural separation. "We had a site right on the river and the view was amazing. The sites are pretty well spaced apart and well kept. The bathrooms were decently clean and the showers did not need quarters," according to Kayleen C.
Family-friendly facilities: Lincoln / Woodstock KOA maintains clean, accessible amenities. "Extremely family & pet friendly- my kids had fun," states Sarah S., though she notes that her "11 yr old asked to camp somewhere less modern."
Quiet alternatives: Harbor Hill Camping Area offers a more peaceful atmosphere. "The tenting sites are pretty big and they allow up to 4 tents and 2 cars per site. Extremely quiet and the bathrooms are super clean," says Sarah W., highlighting its appeal for those seeking less crowded glamping close to Campton, New Hampshire.
Rustic charm: Waterville Campground maintains a traditional camping atmosphere. "The pine needle floor was soft and clean. A path leads straight down to the river, which we can hear running from the tents at night," describes Heather B.
What you should know
Bear awareness: Waterville Campground requires proper food storage. "The camp honestly is really nice and well maintained. Some Verizon work and vault toilets. The first day I got there at around 5:30 I was sitting in my hammock reading when a black bear cub strolled through my campsite," warns Kitty.
Limited facilities: Many campgrounds offer basic amenities only. "There are pit toilets and water pumps. There are no sinks. There are signs to wash your hand but not a single sink," explains Desiree M. about Waterville Campground.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds strictly enforce quiet hours. "Sites are close together and quiet hours (10p-6a) are taken seriously. This does not just mean music goes off, you also have to whisper if you want to stay up and hang out around the campfire," notes Desiree M.
Cell coverage limitations: Many campgrounds have minimal connectivity. "It's early July and there's been hardly anyone staying here! Only downsides are it's a bit off the beaten path (over an hour to Conway); there is some road noise; and the water is very brown / rusty," reports Heather B.
Tips for camping with families
Water play options: White Lake State Park Campground provides safe swimming areas. "The lake is clear, the swimming area is shallow for quite a distance so you can feel comfortable with kids," explains Jean C.
Bicycle-friendly layouts: Look for campgrounds with protected riding spaces. "Every summer, we would take the kids camping for a week at White Lake State Park and we all loved it. You can rent canoes, hike around the lake, and the kids could safely ride their bikes around the campground," shares Carolyn M.
Playground access: Country Bumpkins Campground includes dedicated play areas. "Everyone was very kind. The campground was very clean and is very family friendly. There is a small arcade game room, WiFi at each site and an outdoor play area for kids," notes Sawyer G.
Site selection: Choose locations away from common paths. "The sites are fairly spread out and have a fire fault. The camp host that was here last season was absolutely great," reports Daniel S. about Waterville Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Baker River Campground offers varying site conditions. "Sites are easy to get in to with an RV and level. Only a few remote sites for tents. Bathrooms and showers were very clean and modern," shares Pat about Harbor Hill Camping Area, contrasting with other locations.
Full hookup availability: Moose Hillock Camping Resort provides complete RV services. "Our site (camper trailer) was one of the largest sites we've stayed in. They also did a great job of maintaining the beauty of the mountains and landscape," notes Diana A.
Navigation considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging layouts. "Very hilly terrain is insaneeee! If you have never been before, book a sight as close as possible to the pool and office, because the further you get, the higher the altitude," advises Jessica W.
Off-season options: Several campgrounds extend their season into October. "We stayed on Labor Day weekend, so it was probably louder and more crowded than usual. But even still for a completely full campground it was nice!" reports Amanda about White Lake State Park.
