The White Mountains region surrounding Lancaster, New Hampshire sits at elevations ranging from 900 to 4,000+ feet, creating distinct microclimates for campers throughout the season. Campgrounds in this area typically see first frost by mid-September, with May through August offering the most reliable camping conditions. Sites along rivers like the Connecticut and Ammonoosuc provide natural cooling during summer months when temperatures can reach the mid-80s.
What to do
Ski access in winter months: Cannon Mountain RV Park offers campers unique winter recreation opportunities. "Perfect for ski bums. Access to xcs, downhill, and snow machine trails," notes one camper. The park's location at the base of Cannon Mountain makes it ideal for cold-weather camping.
Explore fire towers: Located near Sunshine Valley RV Park, Milan Hill State Park features a historic fire tower with panoramic views. "Take a walk over to Milan Hill SP and climb the fire tower! Sites at the top of the hill provide a view of peaks in the distance," shares one camper. The tower provides views extending into Maine on clear days.
River activities: Nearby campgrounds offer water recreation along multiple riverways. At Country Bumpkins Campground, "spots for both campers and tents right along the river" provide direct water access. One camper mentioned, "We stayed by the river and the brook, which was amazing."
What campers like
Well-maintained facilities: Fransted Family Campground receives consistent praise for cleanliness. "The bathrooms are immaculate & the campsites are well ground," writes one long-time visitor. Another notes, "Clean bathrooms. Good sites for both large and small campers."
Family-friendly amenities: Sugar Ridge RV Village offers numerous activities for children. "Horse carriage rides, paved roads, 2 pools, playgrounds, mini golf, fireworks..." lists one camper. Another mentions, "We had a amazing time! Dog friendly, mini golf, heated pool, two playgrounds, and crafts and fun things for the kids!"
Central location: Many campgrounds serve as bases for regional exploration. A visitor to Fransted Family Campground appreciated that it's "perfectly located for access to Franconia Notch." Another camper noted the campground is "central to all the white mountain attractions."
What you should know
Site layout challenges: Some rv parks near Lancaster, New Hampshire have tight configurations. At Country Bumpkins, "Sites are very tight," according to a recent camper. Another notes, "The check-in was a MESS... It was almost dangerous... We had to detach the toad and back our RV up to get in a position to turn around."
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds in the region operate on limited schedules. Riverside Camping & RV Resort runs from "May 1 - Oct 15" with 110 sites. Similarly, Fransted Family Campground operates "May 1 to Oct 15."
Varying hookup options: Cedar Pond Campground provides 32 sites with water and electric connections, while Twin Mountain Motor Court and RV Park offers water, electric, and sewer hookups from May through November without an on-site dump station.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Campgrounds with water features provide natural entertainment. At Country Bumpkins, "There is a small pond in the center with ducks and fish. A huge playground for the kids. Plenty of picnic tables and river access."
Schedule horse-drawn rides: Sugar Ridge RV Village offers unique activities for children. "Kids were happy with the heated pool, horse rides, and other activities," mentions one family. Reservations for these activities should be made upon arrival during peak season.
Consider proximity to attractions: Riverbrook RV & Camping Resort offers convenient access to regional activities. A camper noted, "The park is clean, comfortable, and convenient to adventures in the White Mountains." Another mentioned its strategic location makes it "outstanding" for families exploring the region.
Tips from RVers
Cell service quality: Connectivity varies significantly throughout the region. At Riverbrook RV Resort, "the wifi worked great...especially when compared to other campgrounds we've been to," according to one RVer. Sugar Ridge campers report "decent cell phone signal (Verizon)" despite the rolling terrain.
Site selection: Carefully choose RV sites based on your needs. At Sugar Ridge RV Village, "sites are correctly placed and oriented. Family staying next to us found their site had 50 amp service not the expected 30 amp and they needed to borrow an adapter cord."
Off-season considerations: RV campers seeking extended stays should note winter limitations. At Cannon Mountain RV Park, "The rates drop after Columbus Day and the water is turned off." Another camper mentioned, "From Columbus Day to mid May you may have a chance with walk-up."