Campgrounds near Gorham, New Hampshire range from simple dispersed sites to full-service facilities, with most nestled between 800-1,500 feet elevation in the northern White Mountains. Winter temperatures often drop below 0°F, while summer highs typically reach 70-85°F with frequent afternoon thunderstorms. The camping season extends primarily from mid-May through mid-October, though several dispersed sites remain accessible year-round for hardy winter campers.
What to do
Riverside activities: 3-8 miles from town. Crawford Notch Campground offers excellent water access with shallow areas perfect for wading. "The river is great for exploring! But it's extremely cold, swift, shallow, so it's not ideal for swimming," notes Brian J. Nearby sites also provide tubing opportunities during summer months.
Mountain biking: Access from campgrounds. Moose Brook State Park Campground maintains extensive trail networks. "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," explains Sarah C.
Winter recreation: December-March. Several areas permit off-season access. "While the campground is closed in the winter, the trails are open to fat biking, snowshoeing and cross country skiing!" mentions a Moose Brook State Park visitor. Sites like Barnes Field Campground remain open during winter months for adventurous campers seeking solitude.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Varies by campground. Timberland Campground offers varying levels of seclusion. "Site 6 is a great site for a pop-up or small trailer, relatively private with small wooded areas separating you from the other sites," says Samantha C., though some visitors note the tent sites can feel close together.
Swimming ponds: Available at select locations. Basin Campground provides excellent swimming options. "This campground has a day use area with a boat launch and picnic area on the right as you drive in. Non-motorized boats are allowed on the water and it's a great swim spot in the summer," explains Sarah C., adding that "the water is surrounded by beautiful cliffs."
Stargazing opportunities: Best away from town. Remote sites provide exceptional night sky viewing. "Beautiful star filled sky at night!" reports Samantha about Basin Campground. Dispersed camping areas typically offer the darkest skies due to minimal light pollution and higher elevations.
What you should know
Bear activity: Common throughout region. Dolly Copp Campground visitors should take precautions. "Upon entering campground we saw many 'beware of bear signs'. The campground ranger station confirmed that black bear are prominent and will venture across picnic tables and sites, so be certain to store food & toiletries safely per rules!" warns Whitney W.
Shower availability: Limited at most sites. Many campgrounds charge for showers. "Bring cash for hot showers, $0.50 for almost 8 mins (cold water free)," advises Robert L. about Timberland. Several campgrounds have no shower facilities at all, requiring trips to nearby towns or state parks.
Cell service: Spotty to non-existent. Coverage varies significantly by location and carrier. "Next to zero cell phone service," notes Joshua M. about Dolly Copp. Basin Campground has "no cell service, at least not AT&T or Verizon. If you need it, a short drive down the road gets you service," according to Jamie D.
Weather changes: Prepare for rapid shifts. Temperatures can drop 20-30 degrees in hours, especially at higher elevations. Rain gear is essential even during clear forecasts. Afternoon thunderstorms occur frequently in summer months, particularly July-August.
Tips for camping with families
Quiet campgrounds: Best for young children. Dry River Campground provides a peaceful setting. "With very few sites, the Dry River Campground is one of our favorite places to camp. The location is the White Mountain National Forest is spectacular and allows easy access to the trails," shares Gary G.
Family-friendly amenities: Available at larger sites. Moose Brook State Park offers numerous activities. "Perfect for family camping! Fishing, swimming, river walks, biking and movie nights!" explains J L. Facilities with recreational ponds are particularly popular for families with elementary-aged children.
Educational opportunities: Ranger programs. Some campgrounds offer organized activities. "There was an interpretive ranger staying there that held a fun night of scores and spooky stories," mentions Michele S. about Dry River Campground. These programs typically run weekends during peak summer season.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Plan accordingly. White Birches Camping Park offers more services than most. "Older campground run by an experienced and friendly couple. Varied sites that have what most are looking for. Some open sites up front with wooded sites further in," explains Gary C.
Power concerns: Monitor voltage. Some campgrounds experience electrical issues during peak season. "The power at this place is clearly overloaded. On the weekend I was getting warnings that the voltage was in the 95v range (120v)," warns Adam A. about one location. Bring surge protectors for sensitive electronics.
Site selection: Research carefully. "Large, new Adirondack shelters and tent sites. Get the shelter....only $4 more per day and huge!" recommends Mike K. about Moose Brook. Most campgrounds allow specific site selection when booking, enabling RVers to choose locations that best fit their rig size.
