The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Franconia. Franconia is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Franconia camping trip.
In the heart of Franconia Notch State Park, Lafayette Place Campground is the camping and hiking hub for the park. It provides a great base from which to enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, swimming, and many attractions in the White Mountains. Information about hiking trails, safety, and the natural and cultural history of the park is available at the cabin near the campground entrance. A lodge houses a registration desk and offers a selection of camping supplies. Each campsite is wooded and has a picnic table, car parking, and an open fireplace. There are coin-operated showers and a camp store. Lafayette Campground provides 97 wooded tent sites - 88 are by reservation only, 1 is for youth group reservations, and 7 are for first-come/first-served campers. Self-service/self-pay camping with limited staffing and facilities is available during the off-season.
$25 / night
Surrounded on three sides by National Forest and nestled between the banks of Lost River and Walker Brook, our well-maintained and wooded sites offer the utmost in tranquility while remaining so close to many of the region’s most popular attractions. Located at the site of a turn-of-the-century lumber mill, our authentic water wheel continues to churn out history as it beckons vacationers from near and afar. Campers are welcome on a day-to-day basis, when space is available. Reservations are accepted for stays of 1 night or longer between May 1st and June 1st and after Labor Day. This does not include holidays or special events weekends. From June 2nd through Labor Day, it is a 3-night minimum; with a 3-night deposit required. Please navigate our site to learn more about all that we have to offer for your family’s next New Hampshire camping vacation. We hope that you can stay with us sometime this season!
$62 - $209 / night
Located at the western end of the scenic Kancamagus Highway, this campground serves as an excellent place to start your White Mountain adventure. The nearby Lincoln Woods Visitor Center is the jumping off point for numerous hiking trails leading into the Pemigewasset Wilderness; the Kancamagus Highway is an extremely popular scenic byway with numerous hiking, picnic, and swimming spots; and the town of Lincoln offers many amenities. Hancock Campground has 56 wooded sites.
$27 / night
$25 / night
Crawford Notch Campground is a family-owned and operated campground nestled in the heart of the White Mountains of New Hampshire. Scenic Crawford Notch is well known for its awe-inspiring views, majestic mountains, unspoiled wilderness, and miles of hiking trails. Our wooded setting along the banks of the Saco River features secluded campsites and log cabins.
$25 / night
Off the beaten path, Russell Pond Campground is nestled into the hillside overlooking Russell Pond, a popular boating and fishing site (due in part to regular fish stocking by the State Fish and Game Department). The 84 campsites accommodate most any camping desires from tent camping to large RVs. The White Mountains boast pristine forests, clear mountain streams and rivers and the tallest peaks in the Northeast. The forest encompasses nearly 800,000 acres in New Hampshire and western Maine, and is one of the most popular in the country.
The White Mountains are a favorite among hikers. Many miles of hiking and mountain biking trails are within a short drive of the campground. Within the facility, nature programs are available on Saturday nights in July and August. Anglers can cast a line for trout in the pond which averages 33' in depth. Power boats are not permitted on the pond.
The campground lies amidst a beautiful forest of northern hardwoods that provide plenty of shade. The 40-acre spring fed Russell Pond provides many non-motorized, water based recreation opportunities. The White Mountains are home to many species of northern wildlife, including moose, white-tailed deer and black bear. Almost 200 species of birds, including the rare Bicknell's Thrush, live in the forest.
Russell Pond Campground is only a short 6 miles from the famous Kancamagus National Scenic Byway which features many opportunities for scenic viewing, picnicking, hiking, biking and wildlife viewing. Families who need a break from the woods can explore miniature golf, a water sports park, train rides and gondolas in nearby towns. The White Mountains region hosts four alpine and five Nordic ski areas, which provide year-round recreation opportunities such as skiing, hiking, mountain biking, outdoor concerts, interpretive trails, special events and regional and national skiing and snowboarding races. The area also contains 1,200 miles of hiking trails, including 160 miles of the famous Appalachian Trail.
$27 / night
Moose Hillock Camping Resort offers 90 unspoiled acres, surrounded by thousands of acres of White Mountain National Forest. Our private, secluded sites offer you a true camping experience. Our RV sites are large, level and private, with 20 – 30 and 50 amp electrical service with full hookup sites available. Our tent sites are located in a separate, secluded area which is exclusively dedicated to tenters. All sites come equipped with picnic tables and natural stone fireplaces. If you’re not a camper but would like to try out the camping experience, we offer two different cabin styles available for rental.
$49 - $129 / night
Sugarloaf 1 is a quiet, remote getaway in the northwoods of New Hampshire. Located near the western base of Mount Washington and 3 miles east of the small town of Twin Mountain, the campground is minutes away from hiking, mountain biking, scenic driving, fishing and sightseeing opportunities. The White Mountains boast pristine forests, clear mountain streams and rivers and the tallest peaks in the Northeast. The forest encompasses nearly 800,000 acres in New Hampshire and western Maine, and is one of the most popular in the country.
Hiking is one of the biggest draws to the campground. The 6,288-ft. Mount Washington, New England's highest peak, is just minutes away. Access to the wild Ammonoosuc River is easy for campers wishing to fish for brook trout or wade in its cool waters during warmer summer months. The campground is in close proximity to Bretton Woods ski resort and the upscale Mount Washington Hotel. Learn more about recreation in the national forest.
The facility sits along the banks of the Zealand River and not far from the cold, cascading Ammonoosuc River. Thick hardwood and pine forests fill the landscape. White Mountain National Forest is home to many species of northern wildlife, including moose, white-tailed deer and black bear. Almost 200 species of birds, including the rare Bicknell's Thrush, live within its boundaries.
The small town of Twin Mountain has a general store, gas station and restaurants. Numerous hiking trails, mountain biking trails and rock climbing routes are within a short drive of the campground, including the well-known Appalachian Trail. The Cog Railway provides a once-in-a-lifetime experience for visitors to ascend the western side of Mount Washington by train.
$22 / night
$40 - $55 / night
Surrounded on three sides by National Forest and nestled between the banks of Lost River and Walker Brook, our well-maintained and wooded sites offer the utmost in tranquility while remaining so close to many of the region’s most popular attractions. Located at the site of a turn-of-the-century lumber mill, our authentic water wheel continues to churn out history as it beckons vacationers from near and afar. Campers are welcome on a day-to-day basis, when space is available. Reservations are accepted for stays of 1 night or longer between May 1st and June 1st and after Labor Day. This does not include holidays or special events weekends. From June 2nd through Labor Day, it is a 3-night minimum; with a 3-night deposit required. Please navigate our site to learn more about all that we have to offer for your family’s next New Hampshire camping vacation. We hope that you can stay with us sometime this season!
$62 - $209 / night
Located at the western end of the scenic Kancamagus Highway, this campground serves as an excellent place to start your White Mountain adventure. The nearby Lincoln Woods Visitor Center is the jumping off point for numerous hiking trails leading into the Pemigewasset Wilderness; the Kancamagus Highway is an extremely popular scenic byway with numerous hiking, picnic, and swimming spots; and the town of Lincoln offers many amenities. Hancock Campground has 56 wooded sites.
$27 / night
$25 / night
Crawford Notch Campground is a family-owned and operated campground nestled in the heart of the White Mountains of New Hampshire. Scenic Crawford Notch is well known for its awe-inspiring views, majestic mountains, unspoiled wilderness, and miles of hiking trails. Our wooded setting along the banks of the Saco River features secluded campsites and log cabins.
$25 / night
Off the beaten path, Russell Pond Campground is nestled into the hillside overlooking Russell Pond, a popular boating and fishing site (due in part to regular fish stocking by the State Fish and Game Department). The 84 campsites accommodate most any camping desires from tent camping to large RVs. The White Mountains boast pristine forests, clear mountain streams and rivers and the tallest peaks in the Northeast. The forest encompasses nearly 800,000 acres in New Hampshire and western Maine, and is one of the most popular in the country.
The White Mountains are a favorite among hikers. Many miles of hiking and mountain biking trails are within a short drive of the campground. Within the facility, nature programs are available on Saturday nights in July and August. Anglers can cast a line for trout in the pond which averages 33' in depth. Power boats are not permitted on the pond.
The campground lies amidst a beautiful forest of northern hardwoods that provide plenty of shade. The 40-acre spring fed Russell Pond provides many non-motorized, water based recreation opportunities. The White Mountains are home to many species of northern wildlife, including moose, white-tailed deer and black bear. Almost 200 species of birds, including the rare Bicknell's Thrush, live in the forest.
Russell Pond Campground is only a short 6 miles from the famous Kancamagus National Scenic Byway which features many opportunities for scenic viewing, picnicking, hiking, biking and wildlife viewing. Families who need a break from the woods can explore miniature golf, a water sports park, train rides and gondolas in nearby towns. The White Mountains region hosts four alpine and five Nordic ski areas, which provide year-round recreation opportunities such as skiing, hiking, mountain biking, outdoor concerts, interpretive trails, special events and regional and national skiing and snowboarding races. The area also contains 1,200 miles of hiking trails, including 160 miles of the famous Appalachian Trail.
$27 / night
Moose Hillock Camping Resort offers 90 unspoiled acres, surrounded by thousands of acres of White Mountain National Forest. Our private, secluded sites offer you a true camping experience. Our RV sites are large, level and private, with 20 – 30 and 50 amp electrical service with full hookup sites available. Our tent sites are located in a separate, secluded area which is exclusively dedicated to tenters. All sites come equipped with picnic tables and natural stone fireplaces. If you’re not a camper but would like to try out the camping experience, we offer two different cabin styles available for rental.
$49 - $129 / night
Scout
I stayed at Art and Health Chill Camping recently, and it was a truly relaxing experience—just nature, art, and fresh air all around. The only thing I’d advise is to come prepared if you're concerned about health safety. When camping in remote areas, it's always wise to have a few essentials, especially if you’re camping with a group. Personally, I’d recommend taking a rapid STD/STI test on https://readyhelp.it/rapid-std-sti-test/ beforehand. It’s quick and easy, giving some extra peace of mind.
Guide
Very nice campground. Plenty of space for 2 vehicles in campsite. Sites are spacious and and shaded. Flush toilets well stocked and clean. Showers available at camp store. Very nice and helpful staff. Surprising that campground does not allow pets. The campground is close to main road and was noisy at night. Visitor center and Flume Trail are nearby.
Scout
We stay here a couple of times a year. It is our first stay of the season and our last. Very quiet, sites are large and staff is friendly. I am disappointed that the new owners have changed the campground to seasonal instead year round. My children are grown but would think not much for them to do there. For children I would think Clearwater campground across the street would be better. (Same owners)
Scout
Have stayed at all upper sites. Beautiful serene and quiet. Site 4 and 5 get some cell service. Upper two top sites beware of bears especially the right side site. Game trail heaven. Amazing little larry brook. Great flat sites except top two. Highly recommend
Scout
Great spot w an exception of local officer Rowe. Comes to site unannounced or invited then fabricates the visit.
Other than that it's wonderful. Some really amazing river sites. Moose pond at top left fork has reception as well as lower gate.
Scout
Slice of heaven! One of the most unique and ruggedly wonderful stays I've had. Be sure to visit the emerald pool just across the Hiking trail bridge..
Legend
General: Small (15-site) campground near Grafton Notch State Park (but not IN the park). No hookups. Not all will agree with me, but I am glad no generators are allowed.
Site Quality: Sites are gravel, level, and have enough trees to afford privacy between sites.
Bath/Shower House: It is immaculately clean. Each gender has two stalls and one ADA-accessible shower. The shower has nice warm water and a great flow. There is also a very clean vault toilet.
Activities/Amenities: Horseshoes and cornhole in the lawn area in the center. Information on many local hikes. Rocky beach has tables where you can sit and relax. There are two dishwashing sinks, potable water, and a dump station.
What makes this campground shine is the owner, Mo. We’ve stayed in many campgrounds but hands down, Mo takes more pride in her campground than any other we’ve been in. Seasonal decorations, flower pots, and Mo is an on-site presence to answer questions, engage in conversation, and make sure the sites and all facilities are pristine. We stayed here five years ago and look forward to hopefully staying again in the future. About the only thing I can find fault with is the proximity to the road but even at that, road noise is minimal.
Legend
This is a nice, quiet, and secluded CG for an overnight stay. We didn't have time to check out the area. Gravel roads and relatively level gravel sites. The FHUs were in good order. Slightly low water pressure. It was perfect for our needs. We would stay here again.
Guide
Loved this campground! Quiet and pretty private spots - outer loop a bit more. Great facilities w wash sink - nice camp store and not at all too close to town! 20 min drive to Mt Washington (be sure to check weather as we had rain at the campground which was ice on the mtn so we couldn’t go to top/they stopped us halfway.)
Ranger
Your typical first-come first-served National Forest campground with vault toilets and handpump water. The Albany Covered Bridge is a short walk away.
ScoutHad everything we needed
Scout
Very nice place. Lots of spots for tents and RV, I believe all of them with fireplace. Quiet and clean.
ScoutWe pulled in around 7:30 pm on a Sunday night and there were plenty of open spots. We took a huge one. Found a fairly flat area and stayed for the night.
Just enough t-mobile / starlink signal to watch streaming and message, but wouldn't be enough for remote work so we went to the White Mountain National Forest Picnic area off the main road about 5 minutes away and had great signal
ScoutGreat sites. Some right.on water. First come first serve, can get busy.
Traveler
Run down. Owner nice.
Traveler
About 1km (.6 miles) of gravel road, easy enough for a big road bike, but don’t go any further as it gets rough. Plenty of trees to hang your hammock. Enough space to put up to 3-5 tents. No fire allowed. Would be really quiet if not for the road across the lake. I saw one truck in the evening and one in the morning.
Legend
Nice and quiet
Legend
I scouted this area a couple of years ago and stayed in one of the lean-tos, this is a great area in the winter when no-one else is around.
There is a parking lot near the main road where you can park. The hike around the pond is nice, but wet, rocky and you need to be a sure-footed person. Views are great, the pond is amazing, and the campsites are well maintained.
Most sites have a lean-to and a well-built fireplace as well as an outhouse. Keep in mind this is a pack in pack out location. You are not allowed to cut wood, and only fallen dead is available for use.
Legend
This is a great spot to stop for a night with your RV and enjoy the river for a night.
Easy to get to, just off of a one-way paved road.
Traveler
I found this place on The Dyrt app, so I came to check it out, I made a reservation online just to make sure I guaranteed my spot when I arrived, which I didn’t had to worry about either way because there was lots of empty spaces, but you never know, even though I made my reservation my spot didn’t have my name on it or any information about when I was suppose to arrive and leave, there was nobody there, but made me wonder if there was someone already there, besides that, it’s a great place to camping, clean, quite, bathroom was close by, shower and everything, besides all that I was able to use my phone with no problems, I have AT&T btw, there is a Dunkin, General store and a gas station like 3 minutes driving, which is great in case you forgot to buy something or are too lazy to make coffee and breakfast, I stayed for 2 night, can’t complain, and will come back for sure, I highly recommend this place, although I recommend to get the side from 33 to 57 it’s on the other side and not too close from the highway.
Scout
I just found out that Onion River Camground just willingly hosted a MAP(minor attracted person aka pedofile) meeting at their campground. I am so disgusted the owners of Onion River Campground that hosted this meeting allowed my family with two young girls to BOOK a campsite the SAME WEEKEND as this meeting with no warning of what was going on!!!! By the grace of God, we cancelled two weeks ago(for other reasons) and rerouted to another state. I’m sitting here reading this imagining my beautiful kids walking around a campground innocently with nasty individuals looking at them in a sexual way without my wife or I ever knowing what was going on right under our noses. It’s digusting and appalling that the campground owners support these pedofiles and would let ANY family book a stay there without making us aware. I HAD NO IDEA THIS WAS SOMETHING I NEEDED TO LOOKOUT FOR BUT I THINK OTHERS SHOULD BE AWARE OF THIS. I don’t agree with supporting MAPs at all but if you are then make it an adult only campground for heavens sake.
Ranger
Came into the area after 7 PM on a Tuesday and found several open sites. We stayed one night in campsite 9. This site is about 90 yards from the fire tower trailhead.
Site #9 goes back about 70 to 80 feet back off the road. There appears to have been a longer site, but the Forest Service placed boulders blacking vehicles from going further. Just past the boulders is a large fire circle with room for 6 to 8 campers to sit around the fire.
We were able to collect sunlight onto our solar panel from the site.
The camp site are all disbursed enough that we did not hear any other camping sounds at all. It was so quiet I could hear the sound of crow wings flapping as they flew by.
We enjoyed a spectacular view of the Blood Super Moon from the campsite. Overall the site was open to the sky nea3 the road yet protected from the wind.
The only downside was the lack of any other amenities. As far as disbursed camping in the national forest, this place is not a decent unpaved road and our campsite was only about 3 miles from the highway.
ScoutYou deserve to be run out of business for even considering hosting such a disgusting function.
Guide
August stay very nice site 210 facing east with views of loon mountain area. These sites are w/E/S. Second stay mid September site 225 good easterly view. Quiet and peaceful. Lower sites by river with wooded sites of all categories. Tenting to small RV’s.
GuideStayed here in August for a few nights now booking in September for three nights. Like sites on Harley road, with views of loon mountain and surrounding vistas. Very nice campground with lots of wooded sites some with river frontage. Very well appointed store. Lots of sites have electric and water. No RV over 32’ in lower sites over lost river bridge. Also cabins available throughout the grounds for those without RV/Tent. Close to town with stores , restaurants, gas stations
Scout
My family and friends were drawn to this campground for its exciting pool and convenient location, and those aspects definitely lived up to expectations. However, our campsite was not level, and the sites were very close together with little privacy. We were tent camping but the area we were in, while a tent site, is best for RVs.
The bathroom facilities could also use some attention– a loose toilet and a broken hand dryer weren't ideal. Overall, we enjoyed our stay, but these conditions kept it from being great.
Ranger
Drove in on a Wednesday afternoon and drove past 4 or 5 sites, which were all occupied.
Then saw a car ahead that was backing up. Long story short, they were afraid to drive across a dry wash in their new Jeep. No place to get by. Had to back my trailer about a quarter mile, so they could get out.
Camped in a very small spot, just barely enough room for our SUV and small teardrop to get off the road.
There was only a 20 foot by 12 foot space to camp jn with no water, no dumpster, no toilet, no view of anything and lots of other campers that appear to be long term residents.
OK for an overnight stay but not a desirable camping location overall.
Camping near Franconia, New Hampshire, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are plenty of options to explore.
Camping near Franconia, New Hampshire, offers a variety of experiences for everyone. Whether you're hiking, fishing, or just enjoying the scenery, there's something for every outdoor enthusiast.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Franconia, NH?
According to TheDyrt.com, Franconia, NH offers a wide range of camping options, with 264 campgrounds and RV parks near Franconia, NH and 12 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Franconia, NH?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Franconia, NH is Lafayette Place Campground — Franconia Notch State Park with a 4.2-star rating from 35 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Franconia, NH?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 12 free dispersed camping spots near Franconia, NH.
What parks are near Franconia, NH?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 12 parks near Franconia, NH that allow camping, notably Union Village Dam and North Hartland Lake.
