The White Mountains region of New Hampshire sits at elevations between 1,500-6,288 feet, with Whitefield positioned at approximately 930 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures typically range from 50-80°F, while winter brings readings well below freezing, often dropping to single digits. Camping sites near Whitefield, New Hampshire remain accessible from May through October, with higher elevation campgrounds closing earlier due to snow conditions.
What to do
Hiking nearby trails: Lafayette Place Campground provides direct access to multiple hiking trails, including some of New Hampshire's most popular peaks. "If you're planning on hiking the notch or the ridge loop, this is about as good as it gets for a jumping off point. Beware the Leaf peeping crowds in the fall," notes one camper at Lafayette Place Campground.
Waterfront recreation: The campgrounds near Whitefield offer various water activities on rivers and lakes. At Twin Mountain Campground, the river provides a natural backdrop for relaxation. "We spent one night here in our 24ft RV. The campground was not very crowded. There is a restaurant on site, which is great bc there aren't many options for food around," explains a visitor to Twin Mountain Campground.
Mountain biking: The trail networks around Moose Brook State Park provide excellent mountain biking opportunities. "There are also many hiking trails in the park and a ton of great mountain biking terrain in the park and accessible from the park. The local Coos Cycling Club maintains the trails and is constantly improving and creating more terrain," according to a review of Moose Brook State Park.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds in the Whitefield area offer secluded camping spots. "The sites are spaced a nice distance apart—we camped next to our friends and did not hear them at all when we were in our separate sites," notes a camper at Sugarloaf 1 Campground. This layout creates a more authentic outdoor experience even when campgrounds are at capacity.
Centralized location: Whitefield's position provides strategic access to numerous White Mountain attractions. A review of Crawford Notch Campground notes, "This whole area is bursting with things to do and this is a nice place to stay while exploring the region... It's very clean, well-cared for, very wooded, but pretty basic (as we like it!)."
Cleanliness of facilities: Campgrounds maintain high standards of cleanliness, especially in bathrooms and shower areas. "Bathrooms and showers were clean. The trail is right outside the lip of the campsite. Totally had a fun time," mentions a visitor to Twin Mountain-Mt. Washington KOA.
What you should know
Weather preparedness: The White Mountains experience rapid weather changes requiring appropriate gear year-round. At Dry River Campground, a camper reported, "We were pleasantly surprised by this campground, booking 3 nights sight unseen. You could hear the river babbling at night and had incredible views of Frankenstein Cliffs as you walked to the wash house."
Reservation timing: Many campgrounds fill quickly, particularly for summer weekends and fall foliage season. "Mid-Oct to Dec 1 sites are walk-in only. Pre-register online and bring your print-out with you to save yourself some time," advises a visitor to Dry River Campground.
Cell service limitations: Mobile phone reception varies significantly throughout the region. At Sugarloaf 2 Campground, a camper noted, "No cell service, but if you need it I had ample (Verizon) service at the bottom of the hill by Rte. 302." Download maps and information before arriving in more remote areas.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water features: Several campgrounds offer water recreation options specifically designed for children. "Pool with water slides for kids, Kayaks, paddle boats, canoes, playground with slides and a pirate ship. Strict quiet hours at 1030 make it very quiet in the evening with no worry of loud parties keeping you up," shares a visitor to Mountain Lake Camping Resort.
Proximity to attractions: When camping with children, consider locations near family-oriented destinations. A Twin Mountain-Mt. Washington KOA visitor notes, "This campground is wonderful for camping with kids. It has a great playground and a small but nice and clean pool. The amenities are clean and well taken care of."
Bathroom accessibility: With young children, proximity to restrooms often determines campsite selection. At Sugarloaf 1 Campground, a camper mentions that facilities are "basic flush toilets, with a sink for hand washing, but no soap. Fresh water for drinking is available at several pressurized spigots that are interspersed throughout the campground."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many campgrounds in the White Mountains region have varying terrain. At Apple Hill Campground, an RVer shared, "Incredibly easy to park my camper with the pull through sites, bathrooms are simple but never dirty. Prices are unbeatable!"
Hookup availability: Electric and water hookups are available at select campgrounds, but not all sites offer these amenities. "We paid $35 for a full hook up and had no problems," notes a visitor to Apple Hill Campground, highlighting the value compared to other regional options.
Size restrictions: Larger RVs may find limited suitable sites in some of the area's campgrounds. At Twin Mountain-Mt. Washington KOA, an RVer commented, "Very tight sites if you are not in the 100 section. Manager and employees were awesome. Lots of shade and close to everything."
