Camping spots near Chocorua, New Hampshire sit at the southeastern edge of the White Mountain National Forest, with Mount Chocorua rising to 3,490 feet from the surrounding terrain. This region experiences temperature drops of 15-20 degrees between day and night even in summer months, requiring campers to pack additional layers. The area's unique position between larger mountains creates diverse microclimates that influence campground selection.
What to do
Hiking on nearby trails: The Carter Ledge Trail near White Ledge Campground provides access to Mount Chocorua. "Great spot to start Carter Ledge Trail to hike Three Sisters and Mount Chocorua. Campground is directly next to Rt 16, so expect to hear some road noise, more so during the day," notes Timothy M.
River activities: The Swift River offers cooling relief during hot summer days at Jigger Johnson Campground. "Different trailheads located on grounds that are a short walk down to the River that's great to take a tube on and float down then walk back up," explains Sara D. The water levels tend to be lower later in summer.
Mountain biking: Trails near Bear Notch Road provide options for riders. "This is a great location relative to activities in the White Mountain National Forest. Extra bonus is the Boulder Loop Trail that is attached to the campground," reports Melissa W. about Covered Bridge Campground.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Many campers appreciate the balance of accessibility and seclusion. "The sites are large and level. The campground is quiet, with a big Sandy swimming area. You can rent canoes, hike around the lake, and the kids could safely ride their bikes around the campground," writes Carolyn M. about White Lake State Park.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The natural setting provides chances to observe local fauna. "Waking up to the sound of the loons in the morning was wonderful," shares Michael K. about Chocorua KOA. This campground has nature trails connected directly to it.
River access: The ability to cool off in nearby water is highly valued. "This is a nice campground if you're doing the Saco, has a nice bath house, has a bunch of campsites, a good store that has everything that you might have forgotten! The river is right there and you can splash around in it," mentions Matt R. about Eastern Slope Camping Area.
What you should know
Off-season quieter experience: Camping in May/early June or September/October means fewer crowds. "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!" notes Amanda about White Lake State Park Campground.
Campground size variations: Some campgrounds are much larger than others. "This is a VERY LARGE campground, it will be a trek to get to the bathrooms or showers or swimming. You do NOT get to park at the lake if you are a camper," explains Stephanie C. about White Lake.
Reservation requirements: At Dry River Campground, "We booked at the last minute and got stuck with site 002, which is basically a parking lot shared with another group (no privacy at all except any vehicles you park in between)," warns Gabe. Book early for the best sites, especially waterfront options.
Tips for camping with families
Activity options: Look for campgrounds with organized programs. "There is a campground store by the beach. You can rent canoes, hike around the lake, and the kids could safely ride their bikes around the campground," shares Carolyn M. about White Lake State Park.
Kid-friendly water features: Swimming areas with gradual entry work best. "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," Jean C. notes about White Lake.
Playground access: Danforth Bay Camping & RV Resort offers amenities specifically for children. "Has 2 big beautiful pools and a smaller one with a kids slide. Large campsites and well maintained. Camp store has everything you need," reports Shawn D. The resort also rents golf carts that families enjoy.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain at some campgrounds. "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," cautions Michael K. about Chocorua KOA.
Road access considerations: Some campgrounds have difficult entry points. "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," explains Norma S. about Covered Bridge Campground.
Height restrictions: Larger RVs need to plan routes carefully. "To reach it from the Kanc, you'll need to cross the covered bridge where there's a height restriction. If your rig is >7'9" you'll need to enter via Passaconaway Rd via West Side Rd in Conway," advises Jean C. about access to Covered Bridge Campground.
