The Errol area lies at the eastern edge of New Hampshire's Great North Woods region, with elevations ranging from 1,300-2,000 feet across rugged, forested terrain. Tent camping near Errol provides access to multiple watershed systems including the Androscoggin River and Umbagog Lake. Winter temperatures regularly drop below zero, while summer brings warm 70°F days with cool nights that require proper sleeping gear even in July.
What to do
Fly fishing opportunities: The Androscoggin River offers Class II whitewater sections perfect for anglers. At Northern Waters Base Camp, one camper noted they enjoyed "catching a few fish off the dock in between swatting at the mosquitos" while staying at their riverside sites.
Wildlife photography excursions: Dawn and dusk provide optimal viewing conditions for the region's diverse wildlife. A camper at Remote Sites — Umbagog Lake State Park shared: "You can kayak with Bald Eagles soaring over your head, swim in a crystal clear lake and enjoy a near wilderness camping experience."
Multi-day paddling trips: Plan a 2-3 day journey along the Magalloway River. According to a visitor at Diamond Peaks: "Diamond Peaks is a camping area accessible by boat only. Situated along the beautiful Magalloway River, it offers a spot to stay if you are interested in embarking on a multi-day paddle."
What campers like
Solitude between campsites: Sites are strategically positioned to maximize privacy in the wilderness. A camper at Stephen Phillips Memorial Preserve Wilderness commented: "It's a rare treat to be in a location where sight and sound of others are absent. While a few sites might have a neighbor in view, most offer exceptional privacy."
Natural soundscapes: The nighttime environment offers unique audio experiences. As one camper described at Stephen Phillips Memorial Preserve: "The lake is great for exploring both day and night. I've personally never seen so many stars as I did out on the lake in the evenings."
Primitive camping with basic amenities: Sites balance wilderness immersion with necessary facilities. At Devil's Rest Shelter, a hiker described: "This was a beautiful structure nestled in the woods, with a privy nearby and a bear box. It was a quiet, peaceful, well-maintained stop before heading further north."
What you should know
Weather preparedness: Conditions can change rapidly on lakes and rivers in the region. A camper at Stephen Phillips Memorial Preserve advised: "Weather can change quickly out there. Gets windy. So be prepared."
Bug protection requirements: Insects are abundant, especially in early summer. A Remote Sites camper warned: "Bring the bug spray mosquitoes are fierce!" while another at Smudge Cove noted: "These sites are secluded and offer a lovely amount of privacy and rest assured, the only sounds you will hear at night are the loons!"
Firewood logistics: Remote sites require planning for cooking fuel. One Remote Sites camper shared their experience: "Worst part is that you will 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."
Tips for camping with families
Water access points: Many sites offer child-friendly shorelines with gradual entry. At Cupsuptic Lake Park & Campground, a family camper mentioned: "Nice beach with little seating coves along the waters edge, offers a little privacy. There is a tiny marina, docks for small boats."
Island camping adventures: Consider boat-accessible island sites for contained exploration. A family at Remote Sites described: "The remote campsites at the northern end of Umbagog Lake are wonderful. This trip consisted of my family of five with three kids (ages 5-13), our dog, and friends."
Educational wildlife opportunities: Plan early morning wildlife viewing sessions with children. A camper at Cupsuptic Lake shared: "Nice campground. Super friendly people. Very busy campground, but everyone is very respectful. Great place for kids and families."
Tips from RVers
Resupply locations: Plan stops at strategic locations to restock supplies. One Northern Waters Base Camp visitor noted: "There is a large local sporting goods store, L.L. Cote, just down from the campground. Here you can re-stock on all your camping supplies, groceries and even scarf down some pizza and ice cream! It's definitely within walking distance."
Logging road access: Secondary roads require careful navigation but allow access to more remote tent sites. As one camper at Cupsuptic Lake observed: "There are miles of logging roads across route 16 that are great for bikes. I'd stay there again."
Seasonal availability considerations: Most tent camping near Errol operates from May through mid-October. A Cupsuptic Lake camper advised: "Tented here 30 years ago and in a motor home this year. It's a nice place on the lake...There are a lot of seasonal campers. We stayed mid-week so we don't know how bust the weekends are."
