Lancaster, New Hampshire sits at an elevation of 867 feet in New Hampshire's Great North Woods region, serving as a gateway to both the White Mountains and Connecticut River Valley. Winter camping options in the Lancaster area are extremely limited with temperatures frequently dropping below zero degrees Fahrenheit, while summer camping season typically runs from Memorial Day through mid-October with daytime temperatures averaging in the 70s.
What to do
Hike to scenic viewpoints: Sugarloaf 1 Campground offers access to several hiking trails within walking distance of your campsite. "Easy access to all of what the white mountains have to offer including sugarloaf mountains up the road. Zeacliff trail is also just up the road and that is worth a hike as it is one of the best views in the whites," notes camper Rebekah C.
Winter outdoor activities: While most camping sites near Lancaster close for winter, the surrounding area offers seasonal recreation. "While the campground is closed in the winter, the trails are open to fat biking, snowshoeing and cross country skiing!" explains Sarah C. about the trails near Moose Brook State Park Campground.
Enjoy water recreation: Many camping options near Lancaster include access to swimming areas. "There is a heated pool with water slides that even adults can enjoy, a lake for swimming and boating with rentals available," shares Erin M. about the water activities at Mountain Lake Campground.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Maidstone State Park across the Vermont border offers excellent wildlife viewing. "The lake had to be the most pure and pristine lake in Vermont... The loons are amazing," notes Emma B., highlighting the natural attractions that draw visitors to camping sites near Lancaster, New Hampshire.
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the spaciousness at certain campgrounds. "The sites are very close together, no privacy whatsoever, but the lake is beautiful. Every site by the lake is sandy and great," explains Angelica H. about Maidstone, while at Sugarloaf 1, a camper notes, "Beautiful place with lots of privacy because of the deep cover between sites."
Fall foliage viewing: The Lancaster area provides excellent fall camping with vibrant leaf colors. "We visited the campground in the beginning of October... The campground would be a PERFECT home base for hiking, or for exploring the area during foliage season. There are many maple trees in the campground, and it was exceptionally beautiful," reports Rita M.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies widely between camping locations. "There is no cell service, even with a booster. The lake is wonderful," reports Miccal M. about Maidstone State Park, while Dolly Copp Campground has "next to zero cell phone service" according to Joshua M.
Bear safety protocols: Some campgrounds require strict food storage due to wildlife. "Upon entering campground we saw many 'beware of bear signs'. The campground ranger 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. about Dolly Copp.
Reservation timing: Popular campgrounds fill up quickly during peak seasons. "Because of the renovations, as of April 2020 they are not accepting reservations. If the campground opens summer 2020, you'll want to arrive early on holiday weekends to be sure of a campsite," advises Jean C. about Dolly Copp, which is typical for many camping options in the region.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with activities: Twin Mountain-Mt. Washington KOA offers extensive family programming. "It's been a few years since I went camping and wanted to be comfortable and enjoy the outdoors. It is perfect for family visits with the parks, heated pool, volleyball and more. It even has daily events or group get together," explains Lindsey R.
Consider cabin options: For families new to camping or visiting during unpredictable weather, cabins provide a comfortable alternative. "We camped in a large group and stayed in yurts, cabins, the tee pee and tents/trailers. Everyone was happy with their stay. The rental units were clean and some of the cabins even had bathrooms/kitchenettes," shares Erin M.
Choose campgrounds near attractions: Several camping sites near Lancaster, New Hampshire are positioned close to family-friendly destinations. "Perfect family oriented. Clean bathrooms and showers. Friendly staff. Store on site and close to Santa's Village," notes Christine B. about Mountain Lake Camping Resort.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup availability: Jefferson Campground offers full hookup sites in a scenic setting. "Nice campground in a beautiful location. This place is a bit off the beaten path of White Mountain tourist areas but is still within easy drive to all the major attractions. Open field camping in the middle with wooded sites on the edges of the park," reports John L., noting their accommodations for larger RVs.
Site selection strategies: Some RV sites offer better views and privacy than others. "If you can score a riverfront site, those are nice to sit outside and enjoy a fire," shared one reviewer, while another notes, "South Hill is the place for big rigs. It has beautiful views of the White Mountains and fantastic sunsets."
Road access considerations: Access roads to some campgrounds may pose challenges. "The access road into the park is a well-maintained dirt road and about 5 miles long. Look for the bears, and other cutouts creatures in the clearings on the way in," suggests Miccal M. about the approach to Maidstone State Park.
