The White Mountains National Forest surrounds North Conway, with elevations ranging from 750 feet in the valleys to over 6,000 feet at the highest peaks. Seasonal temperature variations in the camping areas are significant, with summer daytime highs typically reaching 70-85°F but dropping into the 40s at night. Most campgrounds in this region maintain specific quiet hours from 10pm to 6am, with enforcement varying by location.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: From White Ledge Campground, access the Carter Ledge Trail for a moderate 4.1-mile loop with mountain views. "We hiked the White Ledge Loop which was 4.1 miles and got amazing views. The brooks running through are beautiful," reports Sarah J.
Tubing on the Saco River: Bring your own tube or rent one at the beach area at Eastern Slope Camping Area, which offers river access with shuttle services. "They have tubes to rent right there which was very handy. The campground also boasts a swimming pool, beach area along the Saco River, free mini golf, playground, golf cart rentals," explains Joseph N.
Mountain biking: Trails are available about 2 miles from Jigger Johnson Campground off Bear Notch Road. This area offers varied terrain suitable for intermediate riders. As Rita M. notes, "There are mountain bike trails 2 miles from the campground up off of Bear Notch Road as well."
What campers like
River access: The Swift River at Jigger Johnson Campground offers swimming holes and rope swings. "The Swift River is BEAUTIFUL--on a warm day, you could spend the entire time exploring it and hanging out," according to Rita M., who adds, "There is even a rope swing that we all enjoyed."
Free dispersed camping: Town Hall Road offers primitive sites along the water with no facilities or fees. "We drove down the road a bit, past a few tent sites just off the road. About the fifth one or so, you pull in and the fire pit is right there. Down toward the river there was plenty of open space," describes Erin H., who found it "very peaceful, beautiful and quiet."
Wildlife viewing: Moose sightings are common near certain campgrounds, particularly at dusk. As Rita M. recounts from her stay at Jigger Johnson, "We got to see a moose! There was a pair of moose that were hanging around while we were there which was quite fun."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Reception varies dramatically throughout the region. At Crawford Notch Campground, there is virtually no signal. According to Jean C. at White Ledge Campground, "Closest cell service is 6-7 miles away, at the high point on Bear Notch Road."
Reservation systems: Many campgrounds use different booking methods. Dry River Campground requires registration even during self-check-in periods. Skyler explains, "This campground was operating under a serve-yourself basis when I camped in October, 2021. I reserved my spot, #10, online less than a week before."
Bear activity: Proper food storage is essential at all campgrounds. At Glen Ellis Family Campground, staff provide specific warnings. As Joseph N. recounts, "After checking in, one of the camp staff came by because they had forgotten to remind us to take care of our food and gear at night as there are black bears in the area."
Tips for camping with families
Best swimming spots: White Lake State Park offers a gradual-depth swimming area ideal for children. "The lake is clear, the swimming area is shallow for quite a distance so you can feel comfortable with kids," notes Jean C., who adds that "If you don't have your own boats, they offer rentals of kayaks and paddle boats."
Bike-friendly campgrounds: Look for campgrounds with paved, flat roads for kids to ride bicycles. According to Rita M., Jigger Johnson Campground's "road through the campground is paved and mostly flat, making it ideal for kids to ride their bikes."
Activities beyond hiking: Jellystone Park Glen Ellis provides organized family entertainment. "They loved the Waterpark and the foam party! It was Christmas in July week, and they had so many events planned for the week. Included in your stay is Mini golf, shuffle board, the Waterpark, hayrides, movie night, magicians and more," shares Iris A.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: At Town Hall Road Dispersed, RV sites vary significantly in levelness. Bob G. advises, "The road was not as bad as I anticipated. There was room for my Jeep Grand Cherokee towing a squaredrop camper to pass the very few oncoming vehicles we encountered. There is a good mix of tent and small/medium camper sites."
Height restrictions: Be aware of covered bridges limiting RV access. At Covered Bridge Campground, there's a strict limitation. Jean C. warns, "If your rig is >7'9" you'll need to enter via Passaconaway Rd via West Side Rd in Conway."
Water and power availability: Eastern Slope Camping Area offers water and electric hookups but sites fill quickly. Allura B. recounts, "I originally booked the wrong size site for our camper, I called and they were very nice and changed to a site that would accommodate. It is so close to the outlets and really anything that you need."
