Conway, New Hampshire sits at the edge of White Mountain National Forest where elevations range from 800 to over 6,000 feet, creating dramatic temperature variations even in summer months. The area features granite peaks, dense forests, and multiple river systems including the Saco and Swift Rivers. During peak summer weekends, campgrounds near Conway typically reach full capacity by Friday afternoon, with dispersed camping options requiring proper permits.
What to Do
Swimming in the Swift River: At Covered Bridge Campground, campers can cool off in natural water. "The Swift River is in walking distance and offers a great place to relax after a long day in the New Hampshire woods," notes Michael M. Access points have varying depths for different swimming abilities.
Hiking Boulder Loop Trail: This 4.1-mile trail connects directly to Covered Bridge Campground. "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)," writes Melissa W. The trail offers multiple vista points and moderate terrain suitable for most hikers.
Tubing the Saco River: Eastern Slope Camping Area provides river access and tube rentals. "Canoe and kayak rentals on site along with shuttle rides," explains Crista G. The river current moves at about 2-3 mph, making for a relaxing float without requiring special skills.
What Campers Like
Private campsites: On the Saco Family Campground offers well-spaced sites. "Sites are private and clean. Grounds are well cared for and they offer float rentals for the river," shares Caroline B. The campground features trees between sites for natural privacy screens.
Clean facilities: At White Lake State Park Campground, bathrooms and showers receive regular maintenance. "Showers were coin op. Hot, good pressure and about as clean as you could expect during mud season," reports Angela T. Showers cost $0.25 for 2 minutes of hot water.
Waterfront access: Multiple campgrounds provide water activities. "The lake itself is unreal, with the mountains in the background it just feels incredibly peaceful and serene," writes Angela T. about White Lake. Water temperatures typically reach 70-75°F by mid-July, ideal for swimming.
What You Should Know
Bear activity: Proper food storage is essential in White Mountain campgrounds. "We were 4 families with 4 adjoining sites... There was access to clean fresh water and a beautiful river which we swam and played in everyday," reports John H. about White Ledge Campground, though campers should note the area has active black bears.
Site spacing: Waterville Campground provides more room between sites than many others. "Sites are large with space in between. No showers," mentions Emily L. However, some campgrounds pack sites closely together, creating noise issues.
Weather preparation: Summer temperatures can drop significantly at night, often to the 50s even in July. "Bring your bug spray, citronella candles and smoky firewood - the bugs here are no joke. But if you come prepared you can get by with minimal bites," advises Angela T.
Tips for Camping with Families
Quiet hours enforcement: Different campgrounds have varying policies. "Quiet hours are supposed to start at 10:00pm, but our rowdy male neighbors were up, playing music, talking loudly, and singing, until midnight," reports Sable W. about White Lake, highlighting the importance of choosing family-friendly locations.
Kid-friendly activities: Glen Ellis Family Campground (now Jellystone Park Glen Ellis) offers structured programs. "There are a lot 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," explains Joseph N.
Beach options: Several campgrounds feature swimming areas. "The beach area is very nice and has lots of tables and grills. We were able to hear the loons calling on the lake at night too," shares Amanda from White Lake State Park. The sandy beaches provide gentle slopes for younger swimmers.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some waterfront locations require extra equipment. At Chocorua KOA, "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. And when I say a lot, I mean my 5" drive on leveling blocks weren't enough," explains Michael K.
Off-season advantages: Early or late season camping offers better availability. "Memorial Day weekend, there were still vacancies, but during my Labor Day visit last year sites were full very early Friday morning," notes Jean C. about Covered Bridge Campground. Spring and fall also bring fewer insects.
Utility limitations: Many glamping near Conway, New Hampshire lack full hookups. "Our site was labeled as a 50 amp connection, but it wasn't, it was 30 amp. So double check that," advises Michael K. Some locations offer glamping experiences with no electrical hookups but provide wood stoves or propane heat instead.
