Camping opportunities in Lincoln, New Hampshire cluster along the scenic Route 112 corridor and Kancamagus Highway, with elevations ranging from 800 to 1,500 feet. White Mountain National Forest surrounds the area, creating consistently cooler temperatures than lower-elevation regions—often 10-15 degrees lower than southern New Hampshire. Lincoln NH campgrounds typically experience chilly nights even in summer, with overnight temperatures frequently dropping into the 40s.
What to do
Hiking Mount Osceola trail: For serious hikers camping at Russell Pond Campground, this campground serves as an ideal base. "This was an ideal location to hike Mt. Osceola the next day, then drive the Kancamagus Highway and camp at the other end of the White Mountain National Forest," notes camper Melissa W.
Waterfall exploration: Multiple waterfall hikes begin near Lincoln area campgrounds. At Dry River Campground, campers can access falls directly from their site. "Hiked the Arethusa Falls and Frankenstein Cliff Trail right from the campground!" shares Michele S., who appreciated the convenient trail access.
Stream and river play: Many Lincoln NH camping options feature water access. At Country Bumpkins Campground, "Most of the sites are along the river which makes it such a relaxing place to be!" according to Angela A., who visits multiple times annually despite the somewhat hard ground for tent camping.
What campers like
Natural swimming spots: Hancock Campground offers a natural swimming hole that draws praise from campers. "There is also a fabulous swimming hole. Clear, cold and deep just off the car camping area," notes Tara S., who recommends seeking waterfront sites for the best experience.
Private wooded campsites: Many Lincoln area campgrounds offer secluded sites. At Lost River Valley Campground, "Every site is surrounded by trees, most near a creek too. Very friendly and clean facilities," according to Sarah S., who recommends asking about grouped sites when camping with friends.
Year-round access: Unlike many New Hampshire campgrounds that close for winter, some Lincoln area options remain open. "Open year round!! I have stayed here many times, three times in the winter (it is so nice to have an open bathroom in the winter!) and a few times in the summer," explains Kim O. about Hancock Campground.
What you should know
Limited amenities at national forest sites: Many White Mountain campgrounds offer basic facilities only. At Wildwood Campground, "Fees are now up to $20/night, still a bargain, but it comes with only the most basic amenities, i.e. vault toilets, running water at faucets, picnic tables and fire rings," explains Jean C.
Cell service dead zones: Many Lincoln area campgrounds have limited or no connectivity. At Moose Hillock Camping Resort, "No WiFi or cell service except by the pool which can be hard if you need to be contacted," notes Lauren Q., explaining the challenges of staying connected.
Bear activity requires precautions: Bear activity affects several campgrounds near Lincoln. At Tripoli Road camping area, "You need to be aware that bears are in the area... the camping area was closed after bears visited campsites and got into food that was left in the open," warns Jean C., emphasizing the importance of proper food storage.
Tips for camping with families
Water features for kids: Moose Hillock Camping Resort receives high marks from families for its swimming amenities. "This campground was clean, nice sites, private, amenities galore, friendly staff and AMAZING pool!!!!! Will definitely be back annually," raves Jennifer E.
Playgrounds and activities: Several Lincoln NH campgrounds include play areas for children. At Country Bumpkins, "There is a small arcade game room, WiFi at each site and an outdoor play area for kids," notes Sawyer G., who appreciated the family-friendly atmosphere.
Site selection for families: Some campsites work better for families than others. "If you're looking for easy to strenuous hikes that can be accessed from one place, this is the spot!" advises Chelsea M. about Lafayette Place Campground, noting it has "playground and paved paths, good for families or small groups."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some Lincoln area campgrounds present leveling difficulties. At Country Bumpkins Campground, "It was slightly uphill, so we had to pull the RV all the way to the front of the site to be able to level," notes camper C.O., who still found the location convenient for accessing nearby attractions.
Limited RV sites at some campgrounds: Not all Lincoln NH campgrounds accommodate larger rigs. At Russell Pond, "Most of campsites are not rv/trailer friendly since they are tucked into the hillside and usually have a few stairs either up or down to the tent sites and the few that are trailer/rv friendly are small, wont fit much more than a pop up," explains J.W.
Hookup availability varies: Many White Mountain National Forest campgrounds lack hookups, while private campgrounds offer more services. "The campground is very hilly and kids are ripping around in pedal and motorized bikes and scooters which is fine but no control at all in regards to speed and helmets," observes Lauren Q. about Moose Hillock, showing that even full-service campgrounds have trade-offs.
