The Dyrt – find campgrounds for tents, RVs, cabins, glamping and more.
Open in App

Best Campgrounds near Lancaster, NH

1,160 Reviews

Lancaster, New Hampshire sits at the gateway to the White Mountains region, with camping options ranging from full-service resorts to primitive sites. Mountain Lake Camping Resort and Rogers Campground provide developed facilities within the city limits, while several state parks and forest service campgrounds dot the surrounding landscape. The area straddles the Connecticut River, creating opportunities for riverside camping on both the New Hampshire and Vermont sides, with Maidstone State Park just across the border offering lakeside sites. Campgrounds typically accommodate tents, RVs, and many feature cabins or yurts for those seeking more shelter.

Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally from mid-May through mid-October, with weather conditions determining exact opening and closing dates. Cell service varies significantly throughout the area, with many remote sites having limited or no connectivity. As one camper noted, "The pond is wonderful, the sounds of loons - magical," highlighting the natural attractions that draw visitors. Advance reservations are strongly recommended during summer months, particularly for weekend stays. Road conditions to more remote sites can be challenging, with some forest roads requiring higher clearance vehicles. Winter camping options are limited, though Ammonoosuc Campground remains open year-round with heated facilities.

Waterfront sites consistently receive the highest praise from visitors, whether along rivers, ponds, or lakes. Sites positioned away from main roads tend to offer more tranquility, as road noise can be an issue at some locations. "If you can score a riverfront site, those are nice to sit outside and enjoy a fire," mentioned one reviewer of a nearby campground. The White Mountain National Forest provides access to hiking trails directly from many campgrounds, with some sites serving as starting points for backcountry exploration. Privacy between sites varies considerably, with state park campgrounds generally offering more spacious and wooded sites compared to private campgrounds. Wildlife sightings, particularly moose and loons, are frequently mentioned in visitor reviews.

Map showing campgrounds near Lancaster, New HampshireExplore the Map

Best Camping Sites Near Lancaster, New Hampshire (238)

    1. Moose Brook State Park Campground

    29 Reviews
    Gorham, NH
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 466-3860

    $35 - $45 / night

    "This state park is located in the small town of Gorham, New Hampshire."

    "This campground is just north bordering the White Mountain NF. Close to northern trailheads. NH take care in keeping their parks orderly.

    Nice site."

    2. Maidstone State Park — Maidstone State Forest

    12 Reviews
    Groveton, VT
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (802) 676-3930

    "It's hard sometime to get away from all the people in Vermont but this park is far enough out of the way where you can avoid a majority of the summer tourist."

    "This campground is located down a long dirt road on which there are lots of summer houses. It is worth the drive."

    3. Mountain Lake Camping Resort

    6 Reviews
    Lancaster, NH
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 788-4509

    "Super clean restrooms and sites and a camp store with about everything in it.

    10 minute drive to the cute town of Lancaster which has coffee shops, brewery, restaurants, bakery and groceries."

    "Lake, hiking, canoeing, paddle boarding, bike riding, all of it is right here! Nice, shaded spots with a lovely Mountain View."

    4. Lantern Resort Motel & Campground

    6 Reviews
    Jefferson, NH
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 586-7151

    "The staff is helpful and the location is wonderful, especially if you have kids. It's near many hiking trails and walking distance to Santa's Village."

    "kiddie pool for the kids, hot tub for the adults, free hot showers they even have a bath tub for the young kiddos or handicapped. within walking distance to Santa's village for the littles!"

    5. Twin Mountain-Mt. Washington KOA

    10 Reviews
    Twin Mountain, NH
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 846-5559

    "There are tons of hiking trails in and close by the site. And other activities close by for family or adult fun like Story Land? Santa's Village, and more."

    "The trail is right outside the lip of the campsite. Totally had a fun time."

    6. Rogers Campground & Motel

    5 Reviews
    Lancaster, NH
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 788-4885

    "Very large campground outside of Lancaster, NH. Offering a variety of options for camping-tents, RVs, few cabins as well as a motel. Offer reservations as well as seasonal options."

    7. Jefferson Campground

    6 Reviews
    Jefferson, NH
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 586-4510

    $34 - $67 / night

    "Jefferson Campground is located near the intersection of Routes 2 and 115 in the White Mountains. The new owners have made major improvements since the spring of 2019 when they took ownership."

    "This spot was located near Mt. Washington, which was what we needed, we booked late so we ended up here. It’s fine, full hookups, decent in and out, probably great views when it isn’t foggy."

    8. Mountain Lake Campground

    3 Reviews
    Lancaster, NH
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 788-4509

    "We had a great time in and around the park. Staff was friendly and the park was clean. Lots of activities for the family and kids love the water slides at the pool."

    "Quant town, short drive, clean and family friendly."

    9. Sugarloaf 1 Campground

    11 Reviews
    Twin Mountain, NH
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 536-6100

    $24 / night

    "If you need help or have any questions the Hosts (Located in Sugarloaf 2) are very friendly and offer a wealth of knowledge of the area.

     "

    "Definitely a step above primitive campsites (there’s a flushing toilet and water), but this site doesn’t have some of the other features you find at some larger campgrounds (no sinks, washbasins, or showers"

    10. Dolly Copp Campground

    19 Reviews
    Randolph, NH
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 466-2713

    $30 - $44 / night

    "PROs: Location! Away from the madness of North Conway and just 4 miles south of Gorham for quick breakfast in the a.m.

    Location!"

    "This is a perfectly situated campground. Just off the main road connection Gorham and North Conway (Route 16), this campground is just minutes from town but has a wonderful wilderness feel."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 238 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

Lancaster Contest

Enter to Win

Recent Camping Photos near Lancaster, NH

889 Photos of 238 Lancaster Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Lancaster, NH

1160 Reviews of 238 Lancaster Campgrounds

  • Erin D.
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Lost River Valley Campground

    Dirty and Disappointing

    Here’s the revised version of your review with the laundry issue added in seamlessly:⸻ I came to this campground after seeing it advertised in a New Hampshire magazine, noting that it had once been recommended by Yankee Magazine. Unfortunately, it seems that recommendation must have been from many years ago, because what we experienced was nothing like what was promised. From the moment we arrived, it was clear the property was extremely rundown. The entrance and camp store were full of broken wood, broken signs, and musty smells. The bathrooms were absolutely atrocious—filthy, smelly, and clearly not maintained. They may not have been updated in years, but they could at least be kept clean, and they were not. The playgrounds—despite this being advertised as a family-friendly campground—were unsafe and neglected. Structures were practically falling down, weeds were everywhere, and one so-called playground was nothing more than a tarp on the ground with a tiny jungle gym. The game room was equally disappointing: dirty, moldy, and unusable. We had also looked forward to using the laundry facilities, but they were completely out of order and appeared to have been that way for quite some time. This was extremely disappointing and added to the sense that the entire campground is neglected. The swimming area was also a major letdown. The water was murky and uninviting—I wouldn’t even consider kayaking or putting my feet in it. Calling it a“beach” is misleading; it was unkempt and unpleasant. Overall, this campground was an extreme disappointment. It felt neglected, unsafe, and unhygienic in every way. I will not be returning, and I would strongly caution others to look elsewhere for a true family-friendly New Hampshire camping experience.⸻ Would you like me to shorten this into a punchier version(since some review sites have word limits), or keep it as a full detailed account for maximum impact?

  • Josh S.
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Mountain Lake Camping Resort

    Great campground for families!

    If you're looking for a safe, family friendly, quiet campground this is it.

    Pool with water slides for kids, Kayaks, paddle boats, canoes, playground with slides and a pirate ship.

    Strict quiet hours at 1030 make it very quiet in the evening with no worry of loud parties keeping you up.

    Super clean restrooms and sites and a camp store with about everything in it.

    10 minute drive to the cute town of Lancaster which has coffee shops, brewery, restaurants, bakery and groceries.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 28, 2025

    White Mountains Camping on Little Larry Road

    Chill spots with nearby creek and river

    Highwater trail with bridge close by. Great stars. Creek runs through road near sites good for getting water to filter or washing. Trailhead at end of road.

  • Dale S.
    Aug. 23, 2025

    Nauman Tentsite

    Perfect Camping Adventure in White Mountains

    This campsite sounds like a perfect spot for nature lovers who enjoy rugged terrain and peaceful surroundings. The mix of wooden platforms, nearby water sources, and bear protection measures shows how well-prepared it is for group camping. Exploring trails like the Appalachian or enjoying the views from Mount Washington would make the trip even more memorable— almost like the adventure and excitement you find in an android game.

  • Amanda B.
    Aug. 21, 2025

    White Mountains Camping on Little Larry Road

    Fabulous Front Backcountry Camping

    8 huge, beautiful campsites in the heavily wooded Evans Notch section of The White Mountains National Forest. It's easy to forget there are other people camping on other sites because they're so far apart. It's wonderfully relaxing and quiet. The only thing I regret not bringing with me is a table to put my camp stove on.

  • J
    Aug. 20, 2025

    Plymouth Sands Camping Area

    Nice campground with amenities and friendly owners

    The campground is in a convenient location near lots of hiking trails and attractions. The sites are decently spacious and have various configurations for utilities. There is a nice beach on the river with a rope swing and ability to swim. We were there while the water was fairly low, so it was great for kids. Firewood is available on site. There is a bathroom with a few stalls and sinks that is well kept and clean. The showers are quarter operated with a coin heat lamp as well for the colder seasons. The office has a lending library of games available. The couple that owns the campground are very friendly and have owned it for 3 seasons now and they have done a great job making sure that amenities are kept up and upgrades are being made.

  • jonathan M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 18, 2025

    Ladd Pond Cabins And Campground

    Hidden gem

    Stayed in a tent they do have multiple tent sites RV sites and cabins available more than enough room for tents they have a beautiful pond in the back they have showers or a shower and toilet for those that need it a common room for those that want to cook food play games watch movies. it's about 11 minutes to the grocery store in downtown colebrook. The owners are amazing people they are very nice and kind. This place is really a hidden gem

  • bwillz1986 W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 15, 2025

    Crocker Pond

    Gem

    Nice gem. Toilets were pristine. Very peaceful. Not all sights have drive in access so get here early

Guide to Lancaster

Camping near Lancaster, New Hampshire, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, the campgrounds in this area have something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails around the campgrounds. Many campers enjoy the nearby hiking options, with one reviewer from Lafayette Place Campground noting, "The water points and restrooms were placed well throughout the campground. Our campsite was a bit uphill from the road, but easily negotiable."
  • Fishing: Try your luck at fishing in the local streams and lakes. A visitor at Moose Brook State Park Campground shared, "We pulled an 8” brook trout out of a 10’ wide stream onsite. Awesome experience."
  • Swimming: Enjoy a refreshing dip in the lakes. One camper at White Lake State Park Campground mentioned, "The lake water is crystal clear (and warmer than expected)."

What campers like:

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review from Dry River Campground highlighted, "This campground has a lot of amenities like showers and washer/dryers (all coin operated)."
  • Friendly staff: Many visitors enjoy the helpfulness of the campground staff. A reviewer at Lost River Valley Campground said, "The staff in the office and store has been friendly."
  • Scenic views: Campers love the beautiful surroundings. One guest at Umbagog Lake State Park Campground noted, "We had a great sunset view and then the lighting bugs come out."

What you should know:

  • Noise levels: Some campgrounds are near busy roads, which can be noisy. A camper at Crawford Notch Campground mentioned, "The sites are all nice, but the noise from cars and trucks zipping by on route 302 is loud."
  • Privacy concerns: Many sites are close together, which might not suit everyone. A visitor at Hancock Campground said, "Most sites are close together with very little privacy."
  • Limited amenities: Some campgrounds may lack certain amenities like electric hookups or dishwashing sinks. A reviewer at Little River State Park Campground pointed out, "The campground is a bit pricey and doesn’t offer dishwashing sinks."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose the right site: Look for sites that offer more privacy and space for kids to play. A family at Lost River Valley Campground enjoyed their stay, saying, "The sites are large, wooded, and private."
  • Plan activities: Make sure to have a list of family-friendly activities. One camper at Moose Brook State Park Campground mentioned, "The campground is close to Lincoln, NH so if you need supplies you can easily run into town for food and drink."
  • Pack for all weather: Be prepared for changing weather conditions. A visitor at Hancock Campground noted, "The campground is plowed, sites have their access plowed with various widths depending on the site."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site before booking. A reviewer at Dry River Campground mentioned, "Some of the sites have a view of the road, which isn’t too pleasant."
  • Use a reservation system: This can help secure a good spot, especially during peak seasons. A camper at Lafayette Place Campground said, "Reservation recommended."
  • Be mindful of amenities: Know what amenities are available at each campground. A visitor at Umbagog Lake State Park Campground appreciated the "newer showers, flush bathrooms, laundry, boat ramp, trailer parking."

Camping around Lancaster, NH, offers a variety of experiences, from scenic views to family-friendly activities. Just be sure to check the specifics of each campground to find the best fit for your needs!

Frequently Asked Questions

How far are Lancaster, NH campgrounds from nearby attractions?

Lancaster campgrounds offer convenient access to numerous attractions. Big Rock Campground is just an 8-minute drive from Lincoln, ideal for restocking supplies and accessing amenities. Jigger Johnson Campground provides excellent proximity to hiking trails along the Kancamagus Highway and is within reasonable driving distance to North Conway's shopping and dining. Lancaster itself serves as a central hub for exploring the White Mountains region, with attractions like Clark's Trading Post, Franconia Notch, and Mount Washington all within a 30-45 minute drive. Jefferson and Twin Mountain campgrounds are similarly positioned to provide access to the area's natural and cultural attractions.

What are the best campgrounds in Lancaster, NH?

The Lancaster area offers several exceptional camping options. The Pastures Campground is a charming spot with spacious sites that include tables and fire rings, clean facilities, and a location that borders Vermont across the river. For a more secluded experience, Private Field and Woods Camping provides a peaceful natural setting perfect for nature enthusiasts seeking privacy. Other excellent options include Rogers Campground and Mountain Lake Camping Resort, both offering convenient amenities for various camping styles. The White Mountains region surrounding Lancaster gives campers access to beautiful scenery and outdoor activities throughout the camping season.

Is there lakeside camping available near Lancaster, New Hampshire?

Mountain Lake Camping Resort offers excellent lakeside camping opportunities near Lancaster with boat-in access and water activities. For a different water experience, Country Bumpkins Campground provides riverside camping with spots directly along the water. The area also has Maidstone State Park just across the Vermont border, featuring a pristine lake perfect for swimming, fishing and boating. These waterfront options give campers the refreshing lake experience they seek while exploring the Lancaster region.

Keep Exploring