Campgrounds in Lancaster, New Hampshire and the surrounding White Mountains range from rustic forest settings to riverside retreats with modern conveniences. The region sits at elevations between 870-1,500 feet with temperatures that can drop below 45°F even in summer months. Seasonal campgrounds typically operate from mid-May through mid-October, with limited year-round options available at higher rates during peak foliage season.
What to do
Riverside relaxation: At Living Water Campground, visitors can enjoy the natural soundtrack of flowing water. "The sites are along a river, it is quiet and family friendly... bathrooms and showers are clean and easily accessible from all sites," notes Rebekah C. The sound of the river helps mask occasional road noise, particularly at night.
Fall foliage viewing: White Mountain campgrounds offer exceptional leaf-peeping opportunities from mid-September through mid-October. "We chose this campground because it was dog friendly. Our site was very private and secluded, but close to bathrooms and showers. Very close to NH 4K hikes, and was a great base camp for us!" shares Josh R. about his stay at Moose Brook State Park.
Winter camping: Unlike most New Hampshire campgrounds, Ammonoosuc Campground remains open year-round. "This is one of the rare New Hampshire campgrounds that is open year round. The bathhouse is clean, well-lit, and heated (a treat on those cold autumn mornings)," explains Jean C. Winter campers should prepare for temperatures frequently below freezing.
What campers like
Quiet environment: Many Lancaster area campgrounds enforce strict quiet hours. "If you're looking for a safe, family friendly, quiet campground this is it. Strict quiet hours at 1030 make it very quiet in the evening with no worry of loud parties keeping you up," writes Josh S. about Mountain Lake Camping Resort.
River access: Waterfront sites are particularly valued in the region. "Great campground! Very clean, private showers, working bathrooms. We stayed on campsite 3, which was right by the babbling brook. You can fall asleep to the sound of the rushing water! Highly recommend!" shares Heather B. about her Zealand Campground experience.
Wildlife viewing: The northeastern corner of New Hampshire offers opportunities to spot native species. "The price is good and on a number of occasions we have seen moose or bear in the area," notes Gary G. from his stays at Moose Brook State Park Campground. Loon watching is popular at Maidstone State Park, where Emma B. reports: "The lake is clear and beautiful. The loons are amazing."
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies dramatically throughout the region. "No cell service, even with a booster," reports Miccal M. about Maidstone State Park. Some campgrounds offer limited WiFi near registration buildings, but visitors should download maps and information before arrival.
Remote locations: Many campgrounds require significant driving for supplies. "Very remote. Nearest town about 45 minutes away. Beautiful site- Shadblow. No cell service. Loved it... pretty far away though," explains Kate S. about her stay at Maidstone State Park.
Variable weather: The White Mountains can experience significant temperature swings even in summer. "We have stayed at Moose Brook State Park a number of times over the years to gain easy access to the hiking trails in the White Mountains. On a number of occasions we have seen moose or bear in the area," shares Gary G., highlighting the region's unpredictable climate and wildlife.
Tips for camping with families
Look for swimming options: Several campgrounds offer water recreation beyond natural features. "Pool with water slides for kids, Kayaks, paddle boats, canoes, playground with slides and a pirate ship," describes Josh S. regarding Mountain Lake Camping Resort. These features provide entertainment during warmer months from June through early September.
Consider noise factors: Jefferson Campground offers family-friendly amenities in a controlled environment. "Pool had many visitors, very family friendly. Lots of kids over the weekend, again, family friendly," notes Katie E. Roadside campgrounds like Zealand may experience traffic noise that disturbs light sleepers.
Check bathroom facilities: Family campers often prioritize clean, accessible restrooms. "The bathhouse is clean, well-lit, and heated (a treat on those cold autumn mornings). There's also a laundry room with 4 washers and dryers if you need to clean up or dry out after a rough day on the trails," writes Jean C. about Ammonoosuc Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: Zealand Campground provides options for different camping styles. "Nice places nearby river. It's really close to access many trails and spots," explains Maggie H. However, Jean C. cautions: "This is a roadside campground with several large, grassy sites... It is located right beside US302 and you'll hear vehicles and see their lights driving by all night."
Water hookups: Winter campers should note that many Lancaster area campgrounds winterize their water systems. "I stayed on campsite 3, which was right by the babbling brook. You can fall asleep to the sound of the rushing water!" shares Heather B. RVers visiting in shoulder seasons should confirm which utilities remain available.
Limited big rig access: Some Lancaster area campgrounds have restrictions on larger RVs. "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," explains John L. about Jefferson Campground.