Tent campsites near Chocorua, New Hampshire offer access to the eastern White Mountain National Forest, where elevations range from approximately 525 to 3,490 feet. The region experiences significant seasonal temperature variations with summer highs averaging 75-85°F and winter temperatures frequently dropping below freezing. Camping areas are typically accessible from May through October, though several primitive sites remain open year-round with winter access requiring snowshoes or cross-country skis.
What to do
Explore nearby peaks: The area surrounding Camp Penacook Shelter provides direct access to Mount Chocorua. According to Maddie R., "The mile and a half to the summit is scrambles up some slick rock, which can still be icy in spots in the spring. It was very helpful that I removed my pack to do this! The views from the summit are breathtaking."
Winter adventure camping: The area offers unique opportunities for cold-weather enthusiasts. At Fourth Iron Campground, campers report exceptional winter experiences. Daniel S. notes, "We typically go at least once in the summer and once in the dead of winter. Always the foot ball game before the super ball." The region's winter camping requires proper cold-weather gear and experience.
River swimming and wading: Multiple campsites provide direct water access for cooling off. Sarah C. describes Fourth Iron Campground: "Sites are situated just off the Sacco River and river access is easy, with multiple rocky beaches in between the sites and river. The water is clear and cold, refreshing on a warm day."
What campers like
Quiet midweek camping: Several tent sites near Chocorua offer more solitude during weekdays. At Sawyer Pond, Hunter P. reports, "I visited this campsite on a Sunday night in September with my dog and it was lovely. I passed a few day hikers but was the only person camping, however I did speak to a family that was hiking down who said that the campground was completely full the night before (Saturday night)."
Night sky viewing: The lack of light pollution creates exceptional stargazing opportunities. Erin H. describes her experience at Sawyer Pond: "The pond is gorgeous and the stars were AMAZING. You do have to forage for firewood, which can be rough, but there's a fire pit right in front of the lean to. I've never seen stars like I did here, all around the pond."
Field camping with level ground: For those who prefer open camping areas, Paugus Brook Farm offers a different experience. Justin P. notes, "The camping area is a field in the back with fairly level ground and lots of space, and is a very short walk from the designated parking area."
What you should know
Bear safety measures: Various campgrounds implement different bear protection systems. Sarah C. explains the setup at Sawyer Pond: "There is one bear hang located just in front of sites 3 and 4 that is large enough to accommodate food from multiple groups. You will need rope to hang your food, however a cable is provided."
Water filtration necessary: Most sites require water treatment. At Northern Nursery Brookside Campsites, Jake C. reports, "There are 15 tent sites along the water, and a quick walk from the parking area. There is no running water, only a porta potty but it was great for a place to stay the night while exploring the white mountains."
Early arrival recommended: Popular sites fill quickly, particularly on weekends. Sarah C. advises about Sawyer Pond: "Due to the site's popularity, plan accordingly. Have a back-up plan for an alternate camping location(beyond the posted Forest Protection Area). We witnessed several parties, many with young children, arriving late to find that all the sites were occupied."
Tips for camping with families
Easy introductory backpacking: Several locations offer beginner-friendly backpacking. Sarah C. describes Sawyer Pond as "a great beginner backpacking trip, great even for kids! The site has one shelter and 6 campsites available on the bank of Sawyer Pond."
Year-round seasonal activities: Different seasons offer unique family experiences. Jean C. notes about Sawyer Pond: "This is open year round and each season offers something different. It's a nice snowshoe hike in winter. I've ice-fished on the pond. Sites are first-come, first-serve with a tent platform and fire pit."
Short hikes to water features: For families with young children, Squam Lakes Association sites combine hiking and water activities. Jen S. reports, "We really enjoyed our stay here - we prefer tent camping and like to be secluded; we are not into RV parks. This was fantastic. Beautiful trails, excellent kayaking, quiet and serene."
Tips from RVers
Nearby alternatives for RVs: While most tent campsites near Chocorua can't accommodate larger vehicles, nearby options exist. At Swans Falls Campground in nearby Fryeburg, Maine, K R. notes, "Camped here with family—all adults, 3 tents. We all fit in the large site easily. Sites are wooded but not a ton of space/trees in between them."
Day-use considerations: Some campgrounds experience traffic from day users. K R. continues about Swans Falls, "This campground allows day use and kayak/canoe launching. On weekends there's a huge line up of people putting in to float down the river, which is busy and noisy. It calms down by afternoon."
