Camping options near North Woodstock span elevations from 700 to 1,500 feet in the Pemigewasset River Valley, creating distinct microclimates throughout the year. Fall temperatures can drop below freezing at night while maintaining daytime highs in the 60s, requiring campers to prepare for significant temperature variations. Most campgrounds in the region close by mid-October due to early season snowfall potential.
What to do
Fishing access: The Baker River provides license-free fishing at several campgrounds with stocked ponds and natural waterways. At Baker River Campground, "There is also a beach with great fishing! Highly recommend this campground," notes one reviewer.
Hiking Mount Hale: Located within 20 minutes of most North Woodstock campgrounds, this 4,054-foot mountain offers a moderate 4.4-mile round trip hike suitable for most experience levels. A camper at Ammonoosuc Campground mentioned, "Perfect area for fishing on the river. Hiking Mount Hale or Zealand.... etc."
Waterfront camping: Several campgrounds offer direct river access for wading or cooling off. "The sites are fairly spread out and have a fire fault. There are pit toilets and water pumps," explains a visitor to Waterville Campground, making it ideal for those wanting to balance hiking with relaxation.
What campers like
Secluded sites: Many campgrounds offer privacy despite being close to amenities. At Country Bumpkins Campground and Cabins, "Sites on the main part of the river are close but still felt private. Very close to downtown North Woodstock for great food and drinks, the Flume Gorge, and other great trails."
Off-grid experiences: For those seeking a more rustic camping experience than glamping in North Woodstock offers, dispersed camping options provide a primitive alternative. "Despite being so remote, one of the busiest back country camps in the Whites. Has a nice shelter, spring, privy, platforms, some sites have somewhat of a view of far away mountain tops," reports a camper about Guyot Shelter.
Year-round access: Unlike most North Woodstock glamping and camping facilities that close after Columbus Day, select campgrounds remain open throughout winter. "This is one of the rare New Hampshire campgrounds that is open year round," states a reviewer about Ammonoosuc Campground, providing options for cold-weather camping enthusiasts.
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies significantly between campgrounds, with some offering no coverage at all. "No WiFi or cell service except by the pool which can be hard if you need to be contacted," explains one camper at Moose Hillock Camping Resort.
Wildlife considerations: Black bears are active in the area, requiring proper food storage. One camper at Waterville Campground reported, "The first day I got there at around 5:30 I was sitting in my hammock reading when a black bear cub strolled through my campsite. We scared the poop out of each other."
Bathroom facilities: Availability and quality of facilities vary widely. Some campgrounds feature only pit toilets while others offer full shower houses. A visitor to Waterville Campground noted, "One major concern, I wish I had known, is there are no sinks. There are signs to wash your hand but not a single sink during Covid. The bathrooms are outhouses."
Tips for camping with families
Pool options: Several campgrounds feature swimming areas that appeal to families with children. At Lincoln / Woodstock KOA, "The kids seemed to enjoy the bounce pad and other activities that are located in the center of the campground," mentions one visitor, providing entertainment beyond traditional camping activities.
Playground access: Many campgrounds maintain dedicated play areas for children. "There is a small arcade game room, WiFi at each site and an outdoor play area for kids," reports a camper at Country Bumpkins Campground, making it easier to keep younger campers entertained during downtime.
Noise considerations: Family-friendly campgrounds often enforce strict quiet hours, which may affect evening activities. A camper at Waterville Campground mentioned, "The campground itself is a small loop. Some sites are decent and can easily fit 3 good sized tents and some are just for one 6 person tent. Sites are close together and quiet hours (10p-6a) are taken seriously."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Many North Woodstock area campgrounds feature uneven terrain that can challenge larger RVs. A visitor to Maple Haven Campground noted, "It was huge! But tight getting our 30 ft camper in the site but after setting up camper and 2 10 men tents we still had so much room."
Seasonal considerations: Early and late season camping can present unexpected challenges for RVers. "Our site #60 was gravel, back in, 30 amp, full hookup. 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," explained one camper at Country Bumpkins Campground.
Hook-up availability: Not all sites offer full connections, even at established campgrounds. "Sites are generally level with easy access. You do need to call to make reservations, which in this day and age drives me crazy," mentions a repeat visitor to Living Water Campground, highlighting the need to confirm amenities when booking.
