Northern New Hampshire's Colebrook region sits at approximately 1,050 feet elevation with surrounding forests characterized by northern hardwoods and spruce-fir stands. Summer temperatures typically range between 50-75°F, while fall brings cooler nights in the 30s-40s. The Connecticut River forms a natural border with Vermont, creating numerous boat-in camping opportunities throughout the region.
What to do
Paddling opportunities: Spectacle Pond at Brighton State Park Campground offers pristine waters for kayaking. "The lake was incredibly low so it was a good thing we weren't trying to launch a boat. The bathrooms were clean but beware, the shower has so much water pressure it might take your skin off!" noted Sarah C.
Wildlife viewing: The Androscoggin River corridor near Mollidgewock State Park Campground provides excellent moose spotting opportunities. "This area is definitely a great spot to view moose or go fishing. It is also near Umbagog National Wildlife Refuge where you can view moose and loons galore! I've enjoyed kayaking and photography there," writes Jean C. Mollidgewock is described as "embedded in the beautiful and tranquil scenery that makes up what I would call, the moose capital of NH."
Fly fishing: At Rudy's Cabins and Campground, tent sites are positioned directly on Clarksville Pond. "I was able to get in a morning fly fishing session 5 feet from my tent! The wind was a bit high so no luck for me, but I saw the fish jumping when I stopped by after my hike," notes Justin P.
What campers like
Quiet, remote locations: Lake Francis State Park offers secluded camping areas. "Quiet, remote, serene and clean. I love this campground. It is a New Hampshire state campground so the prices are low and the place is very well-kept. They even have a sink with hot running water where you can wash your dishes at the main house," reports Lisa P.
Waterfront accessibility: Many sites at Lake Francis State Park Campground offer direct water access. "We came in on a Friday afternoon without a reservation. Luckily there were a few sites left including a couple on lake front. The view in the morning out of the back of our van was quite satisfying," writes Bigfishdiveclub C.
Dark skies: The lack of light pollution creates excellent stargazing opportunities. Aaron K. notes about Big Rock Campground: "If you can find a clearing you'll see the Milky Way on a good night. No cell service for those who are wondering."
What you should know
Limited supplies: The remoteness requires planning ahead. Jim O. reports about Lake Francis: "The camp store had very limited supplies, but did have ice, firewood, t-shirts, sweatshirts and candy bars. There is a store - Young's General Store less than 3 miles away that says they 'have pretty much everything'."
Variable cell service: Reception varies widely between campgrounds. At Coleman State Park Campground, "Its location makes it a great spot to truly get away including zip, zero, zilch cell phone reception!" according to Sarah C.
ATV presence: Many campgrounds serve as ATV access points. "If you don't mind the sound of ATVs this place is great. I stayed here on Sept 11th and we had a nice quiet stay," notes Miccal M. about Coleman State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Fishing access: Ladd Pond Cabins And Campground offers multiple accommodation options around a fishing pond. "They have a beautiful pond in the back they have showers or a shower and toilet for those that need it a common room for those that want to cook food play games watch movies," writes Jonathan M.
Campground activities: Some parks offer organized recreation. Jessica C. notes about Lake Francis: "My daughter had gotten more candy out of them then she know what to do with answering the daily trivia question right."
Swimming areas: Dedicated swim zones provide safer water access. Dana M. mentions Lake Francis has "amenities here are great and extremely clean. We are on a 2 week road trip so it is very nice to do some laundry!"
Tips for RVers
Site access limitations: Many campgrounds have restricted RV sites. At Lyman Falls State Park Campground, Sarah C. notes: "If you chose to drive, you will have to park at a small parking area indicated by a few large boulders and then carry your things in about 200-250 yards."
Limited hookups: Most pet friendly camping near Colebrook offers basic services. Jim O. explains at Lake Francis: "We stayed in site 32 (no hookups). It was a grassy site surrounded by trees and brush, so pretty private. It was not on the lake, there are about 7 RV sites right on the lake with full hookups which are great but they do not have the privacy of 32."
Dump stations: Sanitary facilities vary by location. "There is a small 'dumping station' within the campground. Other amenities include several water spigots, a very nice and well maintained (cleaned twice a day the entire time we were there) restroom and shower area," notes Sarah C. about Coleman State Park.
