White Lake State Park Campground serves as one of the primary destinations for tent and yurt camping near Hales Location, New Hampshire, located in the eastern White Mountains region at an elevation of approximately 550 feet. The area experiences average summer temperatures between 65-80°F during camping season, with cooler nights dropping into the 50s. Campgrounds throughout this region provide access to White Lake and surrounding mountain trails, with most sites operating from May through mid-October.
What to do
Hiking the White Ledge Loop: The 4.1-mile White Ledge Loop trail near White Ledge Campground offers outstanding mountain views with moderate difficulty. "We hiked the White Ledge Loop which was 4.1 miles and got amazing views. The brooks running through are beautiful," notes Sarah J., who rated this experience highly.
Swimming and kayaking: White Lake State Park Campground features a shallow swimming area ideal for families with young children. Amanda describes it as "very nice and has lots of ducks swimming near by. The kids enjoyed ice cream tacos from the snack shack." Boat rentals include kayaks, canoes, and paddle boats for exploring the lake.
Winter camping options: Unlike many seasonal sites, Meredith Woods Four Season Camping provides year-round camping opportunities. "Snow ploughing happens regularly and reliably. Indoor pool and hot tub are amazing on a snowy frigid winter day," shares Mara S., highlighting the winter camping amenities rarely found in the region.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention bathroom cleanliness as a standout feature. At Harbor Hill Camping Area, Sarah W. noted, "Extremely quiet and the bathrooms are super clean (although somewhat small). Large single stall shower that was also very clean, operates on quarters."
Wildlife viewing: White Lake offers opportunities to see local wildlife, especially waterfowl. One visitor at White Lake State Park Campground shared, "We were able to hear the loons calling on the lake at night too," adding a natural soundtrack to the camping experience.
Dog-friendly amenities: Many properties welcome pets with dedicated facilities. A visitor at Chocorua KOA mentioned it's "an incredibly dog-friendly campground with a fun dog park, a special swimming pond just for dogs and doggie day care available," making it ideal for those traveling with four-legged companions.
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Most campgrounds operate from mid-May through mid-October. Waterville Campground runs from "May 23 to October 13," while White Lake State Park Campground operates from "May 26 to October 8." Book early for holiday weekends, which fill quickly.
Varying shower facilities: Bathroom and shower options differ widely between campgrounds. At Waterville Campground, Desiree M. points out: "One major concern, I wish I had known, is there are no sinks. There are signs to wash your hand but not a single sink during Covid. The bathrooms are outhouses."
Noise considerations: Campground quietness depends on location and proximity to roads. White Ledge Campground sites 14-28 parallel NH16: "You WILL hear and even see road traffic and Rte 16 is busy," notes Jean C., providing helpful context for site selection.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access options: White Lake State Park Campground offers family-friendly shallow water. Carolyn M. shares, "This is a wonderful place with lots of trees and sites that are reasonably spaced. There is a nice beach and a trail that goes around the entire small lake."
Play areas for children: Playgrounds vary significantly between properties. At Eastern Slope Camping Area, Jennifer O. mentions one limitation: "Love that it is right on the Saco river, has two beaches, the only con is the park for kids only has swings."
Activities during rainy days: For yurt camping near Hales Location, New Hampshire, consider properties with indoor facilities. One visitor at Meredith Woods Four Season Camping mentioned the "heated indoor pool and hot tub," providing entertainment options during inclement weather.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: At Chocorua KOA, Michael K. notes: "Most of the waterfront sites are back in, and the only level part of the site is away from the deck and water. My wife wanted to get the camper up close to the deck so our area under the awning was close to that, which meant I had a lot more leveling to do."
RV size limitations: Some campgrounds have restrictions or difficult access roads. For Covered Bridge Campground, Norma S. advises: "The road in for RVs is not terrific. There is about a 1/2 mile that is mostly one lane (with a drop off on one side) and if someone is coming decisions have to be made."
Full hookup availability: RV sites with complete services are available at several campgrounds. Cyndi B. at Ellacoya State Park notes the "Full hookups (W,E,S) at each site" and that "Sites are level and mostly grassy," though she cautions about the "little to no shade" and lack of privacy between sites.
