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Best Campgrounds near Chatham, NH

1,299 Reviews

Chatham, New Hampshire provides access to numerous dispersed camping areas and established campgrounds within the White Mountain National Forest. Town Hall Road Dispersed Camping serves as a popular free option along a riverside setting, while developed sites like Basin Campground and Dry River Campground in Crawford Notch State Park offer more amenities. The camping landscape ranges from primitive tent sites to RV-accessible areas, with several locations also featuring cabin accommodations like those found at Jellystone Park Glen Ellis and Eastern Slope Camping Area.

Road conditions vary significantly throughout the region, with many dispersed sites requiring navigation on dirt or gravel roads. Town Hall Road, despite being unpaved, remains accessible for smaller vehicles and some medium-sized RVs. Most developed campgrounds operate seasonally from May through October, closing during winter months when snow and ice make access difficult. Cell service is limited or nonexistent at many locations, particularly at dispersed sites. Permit requirements and amenities differ between public and private lands, with state park campgrounds requiring reservations during peak season. "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," noted one camper about Town Hall Road.

Waterfront sites consistently rank among the most sought-after in the region, with many campers specifically mentioning river access as a key feature. At Town Hall Road Dispersed Camping, several visitors highlighted the spacious sites adjacent to water. The campground's privacy and natural setting received numerous positive reviews, with campers noting the good separation between sites and the peaceful atmosphere. Established campgrounds like Basin Campground offer proximity to hiking trails and natural features, while sites along the Saco River provide water recreation opportunities. A visitor described Town Hall Road as having "a nice fire ring next to the river, reasonably level spot for our van, and a fun hiking trail just up the road." The camping area's balance of seclusion and accessibility makes it particularly appealing for those seeking a more authentic outdoor experience without venturing too far from amenities.

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Best Camping Sites Near Chatham, New Hampshire (279)

    1. Town Hall Road Dispersed

    19 Reviews
    Chatham, NH
    4 miles

    "Awesome boondocking in New Hampshire, what a treat in the east coast! Just beautiful scenery, with trees, rivers, creeks, hiking trails with a pond- we absolutely loved our time here. "

    "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."

    2. Dry River Campground — Crawford Notch State Park

    31 Reviews
    Bartlett, NH
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 374-2272

    $35 - $40 / night

    "Cool location right on the edge of the Dry River Wilderness. Great Basecamp for lots of hikes in the area. Some spots are right on the highway with not much tree cover in between so can be loud."

    "This state park campground located between Rte 302 and the Dry River in Crawford Notch is a great location for exploring family friendly trails to (Sawyer Pond, Arethusa Falls, Willard Cliffs to name a"

    3. Jellystone Park™ Glen Ellis

    13 Reviews
    Glen, NH
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 383-4567

    "Located between the Ellis River and the Saco River, this campground offers so many fantastic amenities."

    "Plenty to do at the campground and around the surrounding area for people

    of all ages.

    Remember you are in the mountains... you will see wildlife."

    4. Dolly Copp Campground

    20 Reviews
    Randolph, NH
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 466-2713

    $30 - $44 / night

    "PROs: Location! Away from the madness of North Conway and just 4 miles south of Gorham for quick breakfast in the a.m. Location!"

    "Very dog freindly, many hiking trails in the the area. Next to zero cell phone service."

    5. Eastern Slope Camping Area

    17 Reviews
    Conway, NH
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 447-5092

    "A large wooden shelter stood over our picnic table, with a decent amount of space next to it for tents or a small camper."

    "Great location with easy ride to all North Conway attractions. Nice hay ride and playground. The beach is sandy and lots of room to spread out. We visited Story Land and Mt."

    6. Basin Campground

    8 Reviews
    Chatham, NH
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 447-5448

    $30 / night

    "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."

    7. Moose Brook State Park Campground

    29 Reviews
    Gorham, NH
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 466-3860

    $35 - $45 / night

    "This state park is located in the small town of Gorham, New Hampshire."

    "This campground is just north bordering the White Mountain NF. Close to northern trailheads. NH take care in keeping their parks orderly. Nice site."

    8. Papoose Pond Family Campground and Cabins

    14 Reviews
    North Waterford, ME
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (207) 583-4470

    "If you bring yoyr own kayaks there is a ruver with a take out close to the campground. U could walk back or drive in with a truck for pick up! This place is amazing! Will continue to go every year!"

    "Perfect spot to relax and get away from everything. Great amount of amenities and privacy."

    9. Saco River Camping Area

    10 Reviews
    North Conway, NH
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 356-3360

    "They have bike rentals, disc golf, ping pong table, outside big chess game, pool, outlet shopping was near by, near by historic sites, like kangamangus Highway, diana’s Bath, cathedral ledge, we went"

    "People to our left and the ones behind us were annual vistors to this campground. We are new to Rving it was refreshing to be around such nice people."

    10. Crawford Notch Campground

    24 Reviews
    Bartlett, NH
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 374-2272

    $25 / night

    "Our site was big and walking around the grounds the other sites appeared to all be pretty good sized as well. They are not lying when they call their sites secluded either!"

    "Cabins and RV sites with hookups are closer yo the entrance, store and road. That latter feature is a bit if a bummer bc the noise from cars and trucks zipping by on route 302 is loud."

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Recent Camping Photos near Chatham, NH

1009 Photos of 279 Chatham Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Chatham, NH

1299 Reviews of 279 Chatham Campgrounds

  • Yung H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 7, 2025

    Coos Canyon Campground and Cabins

    Fantastic

    Its a really cool spot to explore. I went when the water was low and was able to adventure where youre not meant to and man was it a blast.Found my own pride rock(lion king) and was able to meditate in silence and be away from all the boaters and atvs was super peaceful with a water near by. The tent campers around me were really solid people aswell.

  • S
    Oct. 4, 2025

    Crocker Pond

    Beautiful spot!!

    7 campsites in a really beautiful place!! We went in early October and about half the sites were full. It was very peaceful and great hiking nearby!

  • Julie A.
    Sep. 30, 2025

    Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park™ Camp Resort, Lakes Region

    Downhill since new management

    Yogi’s Jellystone Park– Milton, New Hampshire: Seasonal Camper Review I have been camping at Yogi’s Jellystone Park in Milton for five years, including the last two as a seasonal camper. Unfortunately, my recent experiences under new management have been disappointing and frustrating. Pet Fence Policy and Safety Concerns
At the start of this season, the new general manager, Amanda, instructed me to remove my pet fence, citing liability issues. Despite my having signed a waiver absolving the park of responsibility for my dog’s actions, she insisted on its removal without providing a clear explanation. I complied reluctantly, only to observe many other campsites retaining similar pet fences throughout the season, including one seasonal camper who kept theirs up all season and transient sites with fences as well. This inconsistent enforcement of rules is unfair and undermines trust. After seeing others with pet fences, I reinstated mine to protect my dog, especially after two incidents where loose dogs entered my site and charged at my dog. Amanda then threatened me with non-renewal of my seasonal contract if I did not remove the fence again, forcing me to comply once more. I wrote to corporate regarding this issue since Amanda was of no help but never heard back from corporate. Loss of Seasonal Site and Corporate Decisions
Yogi’s removed nine seasonal sites this year, including mine, with little warning. This decision affects long-term campers, some with over 20 years of history at the park. It appears motivated by corporate interests, favoring transient sites or cabins, which generate more revenue. The loss of a seasonal site after investing time, effort, and money into making it beautiful is deeply disheartening and reflects poor management priorities. Entertainment and Atmosphere
Adult entertainment offerings have drastically declined. This year’s highlight was a 30-minute Saturday night hayride, with no live bands in the pavilion throughout the entire season. Under previous management, live music was a regular and enjoyable feature. The lack of engaging activities diminishes the overall campground experience. Myself and other campers offered suggestions to management regarding entertainment for adults but they didn't take any of our suggestions. Bear Interaction
Despite the park’s theme, sightings of Yogi Bear are rare. On one occasion, a golf cart carrying excited children stopped to see Yogi Bear, but the character ignored them and drove past without interaction, which was very disappointing. Management and Staff Attitude
Amanda, the general manager, presents as unapproachable and aloof. She did not introduce herself to seasonal campers at the beginning of the season, many of whom do not even know what she looks like and the camping season ends in just a couple of weeks. Most staff members also exhibit a snobbish attitude, often failing to acknowledge campers, which creates an unwelcoming environment. Cost and Recommendation
The campground is overpriced relative to the quality of experience and level of service provided. Given the inconsistent rule enforcement, loss of seasonal sites, diminished entertainment, and poor management attitude, I cannot recommend Yogi’s Jellystone Park in Milton NH Those interested in a Yogis campground should consider other locations.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 30, 2025

    Jefferson Campground

    Great Mountain Campground

    Nice campground in a beautiful location. This place is a bit off the beaten path of White Mountain tourist areas but is still within easy drive to all the major attractions. We picked this spot for that exact reason. Open field camping in the middle with wooded sites on the edges of the park. I originally chose a site that was a bit too small to properly unhook the trailer but staff helped me get a better location. Site 17 was too tight for 44 ft total length. Switched to site 5 pull through. Some sites face each other for camping with friends. Follow their map to pull in correctly. Staff is excellent and very helpful. Small store on site with necessities and fire wood. FYI Amenities: pool, playground, laundry (affordable) hot showers. Off season so the place was not busy, very quiet. This is on our short list for when we return next year.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 29, 2025

    Grafton Notch Campground

    Amazing place!

    We stayed here 2 nights in late September. The campground is very neat and tidy with lots of nice touches like flowers and seasonal decorations. The sites are gravel & the paths are covered in wood chips - both make walking cleaner because you are out of the dirt and mud. There is a path to the river and 2 picnic tables by the river. The bathhouse is clean and has a large shower with plenty of places to put your soap, shampoo, etc. There are also lots of hooks in the shower and bathroom for your stuff and the shower has a large bench to sit on as you get dressed. There are 2 dishwashing stations outside the bathhouse. Horseshoes and corn hole are on site and there is a well stocked camp store. Lots of information and brochures on the area. The owner is very kind and personable - I am looking forward to coming back!

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 21, 2025

    Town Hall Road Dispersed

    Few Solar/Starlink Options

    If all we needed was a campsite with no solar or starlink, this would be 5 star review. Lots of options, great hiking in the area. But if you need solar or starlink, there’s only 1 or 2 viable spots. We were lucky to snag on one a Monday afternoon (last site before turnaround on FR38) and stayed all week.

  • Joshua M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 19, 2025

    Dolly Copp Campground

    Calm and clean gem

    Went here in mid Fall of '25 and couldnt have been greated by nicer people, had a great private site with water and 30amp hookups. Very dog freindly, many hiking trails in the the area. Next to zero cell phone service.

Guide to Chatham

Camping near Chatham, New Hampshire, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are several campgrounds that cater to different needs and preferences.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the nearby trails in the White Mountain National Forest. Many campers enjoy the access to various hiking paths. One reviewer from Lafayette Place Campground mentioned, "The whole area is spectacular and I felt lucky to find a spot in this campground next to the stream."
  • Fishing: Try your luck at fishing in local streams and ponds. A visitor at Moose Brook State Park Campground shared, "Nice camp store, great access to rivers for fishing. Pulled an 8” brook trout out of a 10’ wide stream onsite."
  • Swimming: Enjoy a refreshing dip in nearby lakes. Campers at White Lake State Park Campground noted, "The lake water is crystal clear (and warmer than expected)."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Many campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A reviewer at Moose Brook State Park Campground said, "Nice small campground with very clean bathrooms and showers!"
  • Friendly Staff: Campgrounds like Dry River Campground are praised for their helpful staff. One camper remarked, "Super helpful and friendly!"
  • Scenic Views: Campers love the beautiful surroundings. A visitor at Dolly Copp Campground expressed, "The scenery is spectacular, the river is beautiful."

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds are near busy roads, which can be noisy. A camper at Lafayette Place Campground mentioned, "As others have noted, there is a bit of noise from Rt. 93."
  • Privacy Concerns: Sites can be close together, affecting privacy. A reviewer at Hancock Campground noted, "Most sites are close together with very little privacy."
  • Reservation Issues: Some popular sites can be booked up quickly. A visitor at Dry River Campground mentioned, "The nicest sites were reserved the entire time we were there and they were total no-shows."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with amenities for kids. A camper at Sebago Lake State Park Campground said, "This is a nice park for families. The lake is clean and nice."
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities to keep everyone entertained. A visitor at Eastern Slope Camping Area noted, "They have lots of things to do for kids."
  • Pack Snacks: Keep snacks handy for hikes and outings. A camper at Crawford Notch Campground mentioned, "Having a general store at the entrance was very helpful."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Moose Brook State Park Campground said, "Not great for larger RV or trailers but we found accommodation for our 27 footer."
  • Look for Hookups: If you need electric or water hookups, check the campground features. A camper at Dolly Copp Campground noted, "There are a number of sites for RV's with water and electric hookups."
  • Be Prepared for Weather: Always check the forecast before heading out. A visitor at Hancock Campground mentioned, "The campground is close to Lincoln, NH so if you need supplies you can easily run into town for food and drink."

Camping near Chatham, New Hampshire, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best beaches in Chatham, MA?

Chatham boasts several pristine beaches perfect for different experiences. Lighthouse Beach offers stunning views of Chatham Lighthouse and expansive shorelines ideal for long walks. Harding's Beach features calmer waters perfect for families with children, plus convenient parking and facilities. Ridgevale Beach provides warmer waters and great opportunities for tide pool exploration during low tide. For a more secluded experience, Cockle Cove Beach tends to be less crowded while still offering beautiful coastal views. Most Chatham beaches require a town beach permit during peak season, though some offer daily parking fees for visitors.

Where can I find camping sites near Chatham, Cape Cod?

While Chatham itself has limited camping options, several excellent campgrounds are within a short drive. Nickerson State Park in nearby Brewster offers over 400 wooded campsites around freshwater ponds, perfect for swimming and fishing. Atlantic Oaks Campground in Eastham provides full hookups for RVs with easy access to the Cape Cod Rail Trail. For a more rustic experience, consider camping on the National Seashore (with proper permits). Most Cape Cod campgrounds book quickly for summer months, so reservations 6+ months in advance are recommended, especially for weekend stays in July and August.

What are the top things to do in Chatham with kids?

Chatham offers numerous family-friendly activities for memorable experiences with kids. The Chatham Fish Pier provides exciting opportunities to watch commercial fishing boats unload their catch while seals often gather nearby. Explore the Chatham Lighthouse with guided tours on select days, offering educational insights and spectacular views. The Chatham Railroad Museum features interactive exhibits perfect for train enthusiasts of all ages. Papoose Pond Family Campground and Cabins visitors often recommend similar New England family attractions. For outdoor adventures, try biking the Old Colony Rail Trail, mini-golf at Chatham Seaside Links, or wildlife spotting at Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge.

When is the best time to visit Chatham, Massachusetts?

The ideal time to visit Chatham is during the shoulder seasons of late May to mid-June or September to early October. These periods offer pleasant temperatures (65-75°F), fewer crowds, and reduced accommodation rates while most attractions remain open. Summer (late June through August) brings perfect beach weather and all seasonal businesses are operating, but expect peak crowds and prices. Saco River Camping Area visitors often recommend similar timing for New England coastal trips. Winter visits (November-March) offer a quieter, authentic Cape Cod experience with holiday festivities, though many seasonal businesses close and temperatures average 30-45°F.

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