The White Mountain National Forest offers varied camping sites near Jackson, New Hampshire throughout three distinct seasons. Winter temperatures can drop below 0°F, while summer days reach the 70s and 80s with cooler nights in the 50s. Dispersed camping options generally don't require permits, though specific regulations apply to designated backcountry campsites along the Appalachian Trail corridor.
What to do
Hiking from camp to waterfalls: At Covered Bridge Campground, campers can access Boulder Loop Trail directly from their sites. "About the fifth one or so, you pull in and the fire pit is right there. Then walk down a bit and there's a large group site with another pit. Down toward the river there was plenty of open space so we pitched there and built a fire pit," notes one camper who explored further by crossing the river and heading through the woods.
Mountain biking on maintained trails: Moose Brook State Park Campground provides direct access to cycling routes. A reviewer 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."
Tubing on the Saco River: Many campers enjoy floating down the Saco River during summer months. "Located between the Ellis River and the Saco River, this campground offers so many fantastic amenities. One of the biggest ones that we took lots of advantage of is the swimming and tubing on the Saco River," shares a visitor who stayed at Jellystone Park Glen Ellis. "You can take a short walk to the pavilion and put a tube in and float the river back around to the beach area."
What campers like
Riverside camping spots: Campers appreciate sites with direct water access. "We had 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," a visitor to Crawford Notch Campground explains. They add that while the river is cold and swift, it's great for exploring.
Privacy between sites: At Town Hall Road Dispersed, the natural spacing is highly valued. "We loved this spot. There were plenty of sites to choose from and most (not all) had access to the river as well as a fire ring. Sites were on a dirt road, but it was quiet for the most part. Sites were also a good distance from each other so it felt pretty private."
Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention facility cleanliness as a deciding factor. "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," reports a visitor to Dry River Campground. Another camper notes, "Small store with local goods and basic needs, gated entry, wooded camping areas, small cabins, Camper Vans, you name it and it was there."
What you should know
Bear activity: Black bears frequent many camping areas in the White Mountains. "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," reports a camper at Jellystone Park Glen Ellis. Camp staff often remind visitors about proper food storage.
Limited cell service: Most campgrounds have little to no connectivity. "Very spotty Verizon cell coverage and no TMobile service at all. Better coverage for both carriers near the top of the boulder loop trail," a camper at Covered Bridge Campground explains. For reliable service, visitors often need to drive to nearby towns like Conway.
Weather preparation: Rain and temperature fluctuations are common. "Bring a tarp for your tent, rains can be torrential," advises a Dolly Copp visitor. Others note that summer days can be hot while evenings cool down significantly, requiring layered clothing options.
Tips for camping with families
Theme park adjacency: Families with young children benefit from campgrounds near attractions. "We picked Green Meadow due to its proximity to Story Land. Didn't realize it's literally right next door... We could have walked if we weren't lazy," shares a parent. "Worked great, going in the afternoon one day and getting free passes the following day."
On-site kid activities: Many campgrounds offer built-in entertainment. At Green Meadow Camping Area, "The band on Saturday night was so fun and the kids loved it. The pool was extra clean and nice. Everything else was super clean and easy to access." Another family mentions, "Has a basketball hoop, playground, pool, and volleyball net."
River-based fun: Natural water features provide hours of entertainment for children. "We did it 4 times!" exclaims a parent about floating the river at Saco River Camping Area. Another reports, "The kids didn't have a boring time at Jellystone Glen Ellis! They loved the Waterpark and the foam party!"
Tips from RVers
Site selection concerns: RVers should research sites carefully before booking. "We booked at the last minute and got stuck with 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," notes a visitor to Dry River Campground, highlighting the importance of site research.
Access road limitations: Some campgrounds have challenging access roads. "Oh, 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," warns an RVer about Covered Bridge Campground.
Hookup availability: Electric and water connections vary widely between campgrounds. At Moose Brook State Park, "We reserved the last available site and it was near the bathroom which I wasn't that excited about but it was actually quite nice," shares a camper who appreciated the convenient location despite initial concerns.
