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.
What to do
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.
What campers like
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."
What you should know
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.
Tips for camping with families
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."
Tips from RVers
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.
