White Mountain National Forest camping spans over 800,000 acres in New Hampshire, with elevations ranging from 1,000 to over 6,000 feet at Mount Washington's peak. Temperatures in this region can drop 30-40 degrees from day to night, even in summer months. Campgrounds throughout the area face limited cell service, with many areas completely off-grid regardless of carrier.
What to do
Hiking to mountain ponds: The Sugarloaf 1 Campground provides access to multiple hiking trails directly from the campground. "Zealand trail is very close by and great for kids," notes Samantha C. The trail system includes access to mountain ponds and viewpoints suitable for beginners.
Winter camping exploration: For cold-weather enthusiasts, many sites remain open year-round. "Stayed here for two nights in late December. Site #40 along the river was close to the bathroom yet had plenty of privacy from other sites," reports Heather B. about winter camping at Hancock Campground. Temperatures regularly drop below freezing, requiring proper cold-weather gear.
Sunrise summit hikes: Plan an early morning hike for spectacular views. "We got to the site, claimed our platform and hiked over to West Bond to catch a beautiful sunset," writes Hollie G. about Guyot Shelter. The shelter sits at 4,360 feet elevation and serves as a strategic base for catching both sunrises and sunsets from surrounding peaks.
What campers like
River access camping: Crawford Notch Campground offers waterfront sites that campers consistently rate highly. "Site #55. You don't feel like you're at a campground here, and that's what I love about this place. There's a narrow trail to #55 that opens up to a gorgeous site right on the Saco river," describes Jamie C. These river sites typically cost $60 per night.
Clean bathroom facilities: Facilities maintenance varies widely across White Mountain National Forest camping areas. "The bathroom facilities are so clean! There are great hiking trails right on the campsite. Chipmunks surround you at all times, which was pretty epic and magical!" comments Michelle K. about Dry River Campground in Crawford Notch State Park.
Dispersed camping privacy: For those seeking more isolation, dispersed camping options exist throughout the forest. "Sometimes if you take a little hike into the woods and look around, you find a sweet camping spot for the night," explains Sarah C. about backcountry sites near Shelburne. These sites require proper Leave No Trace practices as they lack designated facilities.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most established campgrounds fill quickly during peak seasons. "Pre-register online and bring your print-out with you to save yourself some time," advises Jean C. about Dry River Campground. Reservations typically open 11 months in advance for summer camping.
Bear safety protocols: Bear activity requires proper food storage. "Upon entering campground we saw many 'beware of bear signs'. The campground ranger station confirmed that black bears are prominent and will venture across picnic tables and sites, so be certain to store food & toiletries safely per rules!" warns Whitney W. about Dolly Copp Campground.
Site selection considerations: Not all sites offer the same features or privacy. "We booked site 002, which is basically a parking lot shared with another group (no privacy at all except any vehicles you park in between). Not ideal for tent camping, but oh well!" shares Gabe about their experience at Dry River Campground. Researching specific site layouts before booking can prevent disappointment.
Tips for camping with families
Water play opportunities: The Saco River provides natural recreation for children. "There is a narrow trail to #55 that opens up to a gorgeous site right on the Saco river, views of the 'Texaco Slab' directly across, and beautiful White Mountains to your left and right," reports Jamie C. about Crawford Notch Campground. The river is typically shallow enough for safe wading in summer months.
Wildlife viewing experiences: Many campgrounds offer opportunities for wildlife observation. "Chipmunks surround you at all times, which was pretty epic and magical!" mentions Michelle K. about her stay at Dry River Campground. Morning hours typically provide the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
Communication planning: Limited connectivity requires advance communication planning. "9 kids ended up sharing the waterproof blanket as a seat, and they all thought it was great!" shares Rita M. about a family hiking experience from Sugarloaf 2 Campground. Many families use walkie-talkies for group coordination since cell service is unreliable or nonexistent.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: Some campgrounds accommodate RVs better than others. "During the peak season, I expect the sites fill up in advance, but this early in the season there were sites available for Friday night when I checked in," notes Jean C. about Dry River Campground. Most RV-friendly sites are back-in with no pull-throughs available.
Limited hookup options: Most White Mountain camping areas offer minimal amenities for RVs. "Nice campground located in the valley of mountains. Wooded sites but close to your neighbors. We had site 41 & unfortunately we were unable to use the fire pit due to being so close to our 19 foot camper," explains Heather O. about her stay at Lost River Valley Campground. Only select campgrounds offer water and electric hookups.
Space constraints: Even designated RV sites may have challenges. "Some sites have no real demarcation between them. This can be good if you are with friends and reserve sites side by side (2 & 3; 12 & 13)," mentions Jean C. about Dry River Campground. RVs longer than 30 feet may have difficulty at many forest campgrounds due to narrow roads and tight turns.
