The White Mountains region of New Hampshire encompasses Chocorua, situated at approximately 1,000 feet elevation with surrounding peaks reaching 3,500 feet. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing, while summer days typically range from 70-85°F with cooler evenings. The area receives significant snowfall from December through March, making cabin accommodations particularly valuable during shoulder seasons when temperatures can fluctuate dramatically.
What to do
River activities: At Eastern Slope Camping Area, campers can enjoy the Saco River with two beaches, one designated for dogs. The river provides natural recreation options as noted by Matt R.: "The river is right there and you can splash around in it" while Crista G. mentions "canoe and kayak rentals on site along with shuttle rides."
Hiking nearby trails: Many cabin sites serve as base camps for regional hiking. Boulder Loop Trail connects directly to Covered Bridge Campground, offering scenic vistas after a moderate climb. One camper notes: "The Boulder Loop Trail is attached to the campground (it's relatively short, offers several great vista views, and you can walk there from the campground and not have to deal with parking)."
Water recreation options: Multiple campgrounds offer varied water experiences beyond simple swimming. Danforth Bay Camping & RV Resort features both river and lake access with equipment rentals. Jake C. notes: "I always appreciate the onsite kayak rentals for exploring the river that runs along the campground. Mary's mountain is a nice hike accessible from the RV/Boat storage area."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many cabins and camping areas feature larger-than-average sites. Michael M. describes Danforth Bay: "Really liked this campground, large sites with full hookups. Beach and boat ramp with some cabins on the water." Similarly, at Covered Bridge Campground, Melissa W. notes: "The sites are quite large and have a good amount of space between them."
Waterfront locations: Several properties offer cabin options with direct water views or access. At Tamworth Camping Area, Betty F. reports: "The lots are huge with fire pits. Our site was right on the river! You can swim right in the river." This access to water features enhances the cabin camping experience beyond standard accommodations.
Family activities: Organized recreation options supplement natural features. Jellystone Park Glen Ellis includes extensive programming as Joseph N. describes: "They have lots of activities to do during the day, especially for the kids. There are a lot of campgrounds in the area that bill themselves as family campgrounds, but really aren't. This place truly is a great family campground."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Weather impacts both comfort and access. Some cabins remain open during shoulder seasons but with limited services. Many roads, particularly forest service routes, close during winter months including sections of the Kancamagus Highway near Covered Bridge Campground.
Amenities variation: Bathroom and shower facilities differ significantly between properties. Norma S. notes at Covered Bridge: "Considering the campground was full all weekend it was fairly quiet with the exception of some noise from the Kanc (just over the Smith River)." Consider cabin rentals with private facilities if shared bathrooms are concerns.
Reservation timing: Cabin availability becomes extremely limited during peak foliage season (late September through mid-October) and summer weekends. At Whits End Campground, cabin options fill quickly due to river access. Heather M. notes: "Beautiful area by Mount Chocora as well as wooded sites. You can tube down the river, it's peaceful and clean with great views."
Tips for camping with families
Pool alternatives: When rivers run low or cold, having backup swimming options matters. Katelyn D. highlights Danforth Bay's "fun and clean waterslides for little kids and 2 dandy beaches." Similarly, Shawn D. mentions "2 big beautiful pools and a smaller one with a kids slide" that provide swimming options during variable conditions.
Organized activities: Scheduled programming enhances cabin stays for families. At Jellystone Park Glen Ellis, Brian G. notes their "great clean pool, arcade and playground for the kids, great store and laundry facilities. The staff is engaged and very helpful." These structured options complement outdoor exploration.
Wildlife awareness: Bear activity requires proper food storage at cabin sites. At Jellystone Park, a camper shares: "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!" Cabins provide additional security compared to tent camping in active wildlife areas.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: RV sites with cabins nearby often require significant leveling. Michael K. from Huttopia White Mountains notes: "Most of the waterfront sites are back in, and the only level part of the site is away from the deck and water. My wife wanted to get the camper up close to the deck so our area under the awning was close to that, which meant I had a lot more leveling to do."
Access restrictions: Some cabin locations have limited RV access. Jean C. mentions: "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." Always check height and width restrictions before booking.
Hookup variations: Many campgrounds advertise full hookups but deliver inconsistent service. Michael K. describes one experience: "Our site was labeled as a 50 amp connection, but it wasn't, it was 30 amp. So double check that." Call directly to confirm specific electrical needs rather than relying solely on booking information.
