Camping options near Intervale, New Hampshire range from full-service campgrounds to rustic forest sites within the White Mountain National Forest. The area sits at approximately 511 feet elevation in the Mount Washington Valley, with summer temperatures averaging 70-80°F during the day and 50-60°F at night. Winter camping is limited, with most campgrounds operating from May through mid-October when fall foliage transforms the landscape.
What to do
River adventures: Eastern Slope Camping Area provides excellent access to the Saco River for water activities. "This is a nice little campground if you're doing the Saco, has a nice bath house, has a bunch of campsites, a good store that has everything that you might have forgotten! The river is right there and you can splash around in it," notes Matt R. The campground offers tube rentals and shuttle rides for river excursions.
Mountain biking: Moose Brook State Park Campground features extensive trail networks. As Sarah C. explains, "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." The Presidential Rail Trail is also accessible from the park.
Boulder Loop Trail: Covered Bridge campground connects directly to this popular hiking trail. "Extra bonus is the Boulder Loop Trail that is attached to the campground (it's relatively short, offers several great vista views, and you can walk there from the campground and not have to deal with parking)," shares Melissa W. The trail offers rewarding views for moderate effort and can be accessed without driving.
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Many campers appreciate having direct river or lake access from their campsites. At Jellystone Park™ Glen Ellis, Brian G. notes, "What brings me back is the swimming hole in the Saco River. Crystal clear, ice cold and refreshing. Tube, swim or dip your feet it is a great way to spend the afternoon." The campground's location between the Ellis and Saco Rivers provides multiple water access points.
Wildlife encounters: The White Mountains region offers opportunities to observe native wildlife. At Moose Brook State Park Campground, Gary G. mentions, "On a number of occasions we have seen moose or bear in the area." Similarly, Liz S. from Glen Ellis reports, "There were 2 active bears while we were there. They circled our camper at night. It was incredible to watch. Of course we never left any food out!"
Peaceful mornings: The natural setting creates tranquil morning experiences. At Chocorua KOA, Michael K. shares, "Waking up to the sound of the loons in the morning was wonderful." This auditory experience complements the visual beauty of the mountains and lakes throughout the region.
What you should know
Bear safety: Black bears are active throughout the White Mountain region. Joseph N. from Glen Ellis notes, "After checking in, one of the camp staff came by because they had forgotten to remind us to take care of our food and gear at night as there are black bears in the area." Always store food in vehicles or bear-proof containers at night.
Site selection considerations: Campground layouts vary significantly. At White Lake State Park Campground, Jean C. explains, "There are multiple loops, some offering water views. The water view sites are just that…views. There are some short trails leading to the lake from the sites, but for most of them they are down a little hill."
Road noise: Some campgrounds experience highway noise. White Ledge Campground reviewer Jean C. notes, "The loop for sites 14-28 parallels NH16; you WILL hear and even see road traffic and Rte 16 is busy." Consult campground maps when booking to select sites further from main roads.
Tips for camping with families
Beach activities: White Lake State Park offers family-friendly swimming areas. Angela T. describes, "The lake itself is unreal, with the mountains in the background it just feels incredibly peaceful and serene. I've seen photos of the beach on hot sunny days in summer and it looks packed with swimmers." The shallow swimming area extends far from shore, making it safer for children.
Organized activities: Many campgrounds offer scheduled family events. At Glen Ellis, Joseph N. shares, "They have lots of activities to do during the day, especially for the kids. There are a lot of campgrounds in the area that bill themselves as family campgrounds, but really aren't. This is place truly is a great family campground."
Dog-friendly options: For families traveling with pets, On the Saco Family Campground welcomes dogs. One camper mentions that Chocorua KOA is "Very pet friendly with dog park, agility equipment, dog pond and dog wash." Many White Mountain National Forest campgrounds also permit leashed pets.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Some waterfront sites require significant leveling. At Chocorua KOA, Michael K. explains, "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."
Power requirements: Verify electrical service before booking. Michael K. warns, "Our site was labeled as a 50 amp connection, but it wasn't, it was 30 amp. So double check that." Many glamping options near Intervale, New Hampshire have limited or no electrical hookups.
Access limitations: Large RVs may face challenges at some campgrounds. At Covered Bridge, Norma S. cautions, "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." Additionally, height restrictions apply at some covered bridges—7'9" at Covered Bridge Campground.
