175 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Errol, New Hampshire serves as a hub for diverse camping experiences along the Androscoggin River and Umbagog Lake. Mollidgewock State Park Campground offers riverfront camping with tent sites and lean-tos directly on the water's edge, while Umbagog Lake State Park provides both developed campgrounds and remote boat-in sites. The area accommodates tent campers, RV travelers, and those seeking cabin accommodations, with several facilities operating seasonally from May through October. Northern Waters Base Camp and Clear Stream Campground add additional options for those seeking riverside camping experiences.
Most campgrounds in the Errol area maintain seasonal operations, typically opening in May and closing between October and November. The region experiences significant temperature variations with cool nights even in summer. Limited cell service exists throughout the area, particularly at remote sites. "The bugs aren't bad if you can find a campsite with a point, the wind certainly helps. Be prepared to fall asleep to the sound of loons and begin and end each day with incredible sun rises and sets," noted one camper about the remote sites on Umbagog Lake. Visitors should be prepared for primitive facilities at many locations, with several campgrounds offering only pit toilets and limited amenities. Access roads may become rutted and muddy during wet weather, affecting site conditions.
Waterfront access represents the premier feature of camping near Errol, with sites along the Androscoggin River and Umbagog Lake consistently receiving positive reviews. Fishing opportunities abound directly from campsites, with several reviews mentioning successful catches. Wildlife viewing remains a significant draw, with the area known for moose sightings, particularly along Route 16 near Mollidgewock State Park. A camper described the region as "the moose capital of NH," noting that "they generally come out at dawn and dusk and are truly magnificent." While riverfront sites offer scenic views and water access, they sometimes lack privacy due to their popularity. The remote sites on Umbagog Lake provide a more secluded experience but require boat transportation and additional planning for supplies like firewood and drinking water.
"It is also near Umbagog National Wildlife Refuge where you can view moose and loons galore! I've enjoyed kayaking and photography there. "
"Absolutely beautiful positioning next to a river. Clean sites - many covered in grass with wildflowers which were stunning."
from $29 - $40 / night
Check Availability"The lake is crystal clear, there are so many great places to snorkel, swim, kayak, fish, literally anything."
"In addition, there are a few pit toilets scattered around. Sites are generally small and wooded, but sites 1a-d and 3-4 are open/sunny and near the beach."
from $45 - $80 / night
Check Availability"You can kayak with Bald Eagles soaring over your head, swim in a crystal clear lake and enjoy a near wilderness camping experience. Bring the bug spray mosquitoes are fierce!"
"The remote campsites at the norther end or Umbagog Lake are wonderful. This trip consisted of my family of five with three kids (ages 5-13), our dog, and friends."
from $40 / night
Check Availability"It's an easy drive to some of the best trout fishing in Maine and New Hampshire. The grounds and facilities are extremely well maintained."
"This campground is just north of Errol, NH along the Magalloway River. The sites and facilities are well maintained and quite clean."
from $15 - $25 / night
Check Availability"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."
"Off the beaten path way up north in Coos country and absolutely stunning."
from $35 - $65 / night
Check Availability"This campground is privately owned and is situated in an amazing spot in the mountains of Western Maine."
"This small, private campground just outside Grafton Notch State Park offers clean, level, quiet sites with hot showers. If you don’t need wi-fi and hook-ups, this is the place for you!"
from $28 / night
Check Availability"One of the furthest north campgrounds in New Hampshire is a great place to stay. If you don't mind the sound of ATVs this place is great. "
"First of all, be careful when following certain gps/google directions…depending where you are coming from, you may end up on dirt roads/ATV trails (common in this region of NH) that could be hazardous"
from $35 - $195 / night
Check Availability"This state park is located in the small town of Gorham, New Hampshire."
"This campground is just north bordering the White Mountain NF. Close to northern trailheads. NH take care in keeping their parks orderly. Nice site."
from $35 - $45 / night
Check Availability"It is a small campground situated on the bank of a river. The sites along the river are arranged parallel to the bank."
TravelerAmazing spot, great area! Plentyyy of room. Between sites 10 & 11 is the longest distance out the bunch and enjoyed that because it was easy to run a generator at any hour of the day with no one able to be disturbed by it. Loved Haystack Road overall. Had strong AT&T reception even with 1 - 2 bars.
ScoutAll sites are at the top of the hill. Very walkable. Lots of seasonal campers with RVs and ATVs. Owners are very accommodating. Water is available though you have to fill up your own tanks via a community tank and ATV. Quiet and people are nice and helpful.
TravelerEnjoyed staying here. Very quiet. But lot more expensive than it says.
TravelerSecluded walk behind camp to river or across to 2 brooks. Safe usually great camp neighbors plenty of room for small trailers or vans.
TravelerFirst to camp at opening my spot is actually spot 2 but spot 1 is covered over so appears as 1st camp. 8 spots available before bridge gate. 2 just past gate possibly more. 2 rv / trailer spots small trailers. 3 river spots beautiful one is 2 parts group campsite. Bio luminescent roots at night due to wood decomposition from logging also known as fairy glow.. Great spot just being developed again. Sites are fairly close if u have some hyper pups. Lol
TravelerI was passing through this area in early June. I was looking for a place to spend the night. Knowing that there was a state park nearby, I headed that way. As usual, I found this beautiful large State Park. I did not use the restrooms or any of those amenities, but they look to be relatively new. The park ranger I met was wonderful, helpful, and we had a wonderful gab session while he told me all about the park and the area. The sites were very private and well taken care of. I had a wonderful sleep in a very quiet beautiful setting.
LegendCouldn’t ask for better sites, both sites 9 & 12 were very private and only a short walk through the woods to setup camp along the river. Sites are far from each other and we did not hear anyone else the whole time. Mosquitos were not bad either, but did see some large spiders and lots of other insects. No cell service once you get into the forest.
Access - Area was very easy to get to, turn onto Town Hall Road, and follow (about 5 miles) to the National Forest Welcome signage. Don’t need 4WD for get to most of the sites when the roads are dry, but very tight single lane dirt road the whole way. I did see a 5th wheel (probably 30ft long) but not sure I would attempt to bring anything larger than a teardrop here.
There are 24 sites in total, half are on the main road into the forest, and near the end take a left to access the other sites. Pretty much all sites were taken both Friday & Saturday by 7:30, we got lucky on Saturday and a spot opened just as we were leaving to find another place for the night.
ScoutI just needed an overnight spot. Found this place. The first site I came to I took. There was a stream in the back, firewood split and stacked. Few bugs. I did not get phone service. However, there was plenty of traffic going up and down the road should I have found myself in a bind. I would go back for sure.
TravelerI loved this base camp and the camp store! Everyone was very nice and loved it there.
Camping opportunities near Errol, New Hampshire focus primarily on water-based activities, with elevations ranging from 1,200 to 1,900 feet in this North Country region. Winter temperatures regularly drop below zero, and summer nights often dip into the 40s even when days reach the 70s. Cell service remains patchy throughout the area, with Verizon providing limited coverage in town centers while most campgrounds have minimal to no reception.
Fishing excursions: Clear Stream Campground provides direct river access with excellent fishing opportunities. "Caught about a dozen small rainbows anchored at the head of the rapids," reports one visitor at Mollidgewock State Park Campground, demonstrating why this area attracts fishing enthusiasts.
Paddling adventures: Rent watercraft at several locations to explore the waterways. "We load everything (and everyone) into our canoe and head out for a long weekend at the start of each season," shares one camper about their tradition at the remote sites on Umbagog Lake, adding that "fishing is also really good here."
Wildlife photography: Early mornings and dusk provide optimal wildlife viewing times. At Northern Waters Base Camp, the riverside location offers excellent bird watching. "We loved the loons, bald eagles, and herons" noted a visitor exploring the region's waterways.
ATV trail access: The region offers extensive ATV trail networks accessible from several campgrounds. "This campground has direct access to a vast ATV trail system," states a camper about Clear Stream Campground, making it a perfect base for off-road enthusiasts.
Stargazing opportunities: Minimal light pollution creates excellent night sky viewing. "Enjoy the dark sky during a new moon," recommends one camper who found Base Camp at Umbagog Lake State Park ideal for astronomy enthusiasts despite some light interference from RVs.
Riverside camping spots: Sites positioned directly on waterways rank consistently high in reviews. At Base Camp — Umbagog Lake State Park, one visitor noted, "We stayed at site 1C Lakefront in a 15 ft. travel trailer. Our site was close enough to the lake, which made it easy to drop in our kayaks and canoe."
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain spotless bathrooms despite remote locations. "The bathrooms were very nice and there were showers, though not a lot of water pressure," reported one camper at Base Camp, appreciating the amenities available in this backcountry setting.
Helpful staff: Rangers and campground hosts consistently receive positive mentions. "Staff was very helpful. We arrived, after a 3 1/2 hour drive, early for check in but were able to go to our site," shared a Mollidgewock visitor, highlighting the accommodating service.
Boat transportation: For remote sites, transportation services solve logistical challenges. "We book a boat ride out and back if you want to. We found it easier to book the boat out will all our gear and food and water and wood," explained a visitor to the remote sites on Umbagog Lake.
Private island camping: Umbagog Lake offers truly secluded experiences. "We like being totally on an island so our dogs don't bother anyone else," noted a camper at Remote Sites, adding that "most sites have newly renovated privies and tent platforms, picnic tables and fire rings."
Limited provisions: Stock up before arrival as nearby stores have restricted hours and inventory. "Errol is a small community, with only a few convenience stores, gas stations, gift shops and restaurants in town. You'll want to keep in mind that many places are closed Sundays and Mondays. Make sure you plan ahead!" advised a Remote Sites — Umbagog Lake State Park visitor.
Toilet facilities vary: Many sites offer only basic sanitation options. "The pit toilet behind the site is our only complaint. There were times we could smell the stench from our site," reported a Mollidgewock camper, noting that bathroom facilities are under construction for improvement.
Weather preparation: Temperature swings can be extreme even in summer. "It was bitterly cold overnight (24-27 degrees), so I was grateful for my trailer, but it made for some beautiful, if foggy, mornings," shared a camper who visited Umbagog Lake State Park in October.
Firewood challenges: Remote sites require planning for campfire needs. "Worst part is that you have to figure out how to get firewood there. Which is tough when you are in a kayak, canoe or other small paddle craft. We hade none and what was around to burn was sparse," cautioned a visitor to Remote Sites.
Navigation concerns: Water-based sites can be difficult to locate. "The other problem was that the sign for the site is tiny, you have to be really close to shore to see it. Make sure the map you get has all of the sites marked out or you will get lost on the lake, use a compass!" warned a Remote Sites camper.
Tent platform options: Several campgrounds offer raised platforms ideal for family tents. At Lake Francis State Park Campground, "Some sites have new shelters, which are nice when you camp and it's calling for rain. Easily pitch a couple four person tents or a tent and table area, off the groups and well protected in the protected deck shelter."
Kid-friendly activities: Several campgrounds organize family programs. "Super friendly staff. We go the same week each year with a hoard of kids and they remember us each year. My daughter had gotten more candy out of them then she know what to do with answering the daily trivia question right," shared a Lake Francis visitor.
Swimming areas: Designated swimming spots with gradual entry points work well for children. "The beach is shallow, and perfect for young children," noted a camper at Umbagog Lake State Park, highlighting the family-friendly water access.
Educational opportunities: Wildlife viewing serves as both entertainment and education. "This area is known for moose sightings, particularly along Route 16," confirmed multiple reviews, with one visitor describing a first-time encounter as "incredible" and "truly magnificent."
Hookup availability: Several campgrounds provide electric and water connections. At Moose Brook State Park Campground, "Sites are level, with the fire ring on the correct side for people with campers," noted a regular visitor, appreciating the thoughtful layout for RVs.
Site selection strategy: Riverside sites offer prime locations but require advanced planning. "Sites 41-43 are also lakefront, but wooded, large and level," advised a camper at Umbagog Lake State Park, pointing to specific options best suited for larger vehicles.
Dump station access: Several campgrounds provide waste disposal facilities. "The campground has potable and non-potable water, and a dump station," confirmed a Grafton Notch visitor, detailing important services for self-contained units.
Generator policies: Regulations vary by location. "Generators are not aloud," noted a Grafton Notch camper (indicating this is a quiet campground), while other locations permit limited generator use during specific hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best times of year for camping in Errol, NH?
The prime camping season in Errol runs from late May through mid-October when temperatures are most comfortable. Summer (June-August) offers warm days ideal for water activities, though this is also the busiest period. Lake Francis State Park Campground shines during this time with boat access and kayaking opportunities. Fall (September-early October) brings spectacular foliage and fewer crowds, making it perfect for photography and hiking. Coleman State Park Campground is particularly beautiful in autumn. Winter camping is possible for experienced adventurers but requires specialized gear as temperatures frequently drop below freezing. Spring can be muddy during thaw but offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.
What campgrounds are available in Errol, NH?
Errol offers several campground options for outdoor enthusiasts. Mollidgewock State Park Campground provides a rustic experience with vault toilets and is located near the Umbagog National Wildlife Refuge, making it perfect for wildlife viewing. Northern Waters Base Camp sits on the Androscoggin River, offering easy access to Class II whitewater rafting. Other nearby options include Clear Stream Campground and Umbagog Lake State Park with remote sites. The area features everything from primitive camping at Deer Mountain to more developed facilities at Coleman State Park, accommodating various camping preferences from secluded nature immersion to family-friendly settings.
What outdoor activities can I enjoy while camping near Errol, NH?
Errol's pristine wilderness offers abundant outdoor recreation options. The area is renowned for wildlife viewing, particularly moose watching and bird spotting near Umbagog Lake State Park. Fishing is exceptional in the local rivers and lakes, with opportunities to catch various species. Hiking enthusiasts can access outstanding trails from Sugarloaf 2 Campground, which connects to some of New Hampshire's best hiking routes. Water activities abound with kayaking, canoeing, and whitewater rafting on the Androscoggin River. ATV trails are accessible near some campgrounds, while photography, stargazing, and mountain biking round out the recreational possibilities. In winter, the region transforms for snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing adventures.
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