Camping in Pike, New Hampshire offers access to the natural beauty of the White Mountains with sites positioned along rivers and near hiking trails. The region sits at the western edge of the White Mountain National Forest with elevations ranging from 500 to 3,000 feet, creating distinct temperature variations between valleys and ridges. Most campgrounds in the area operate from May through mid-October, with temperatures ranging from 40°F at night to 80°F during summer days.
What to do
River activities: Baker River Campground offers excellent river access with fishing opportunities and water recreation. "Me and my family stayed right on the river, site 10. It was very shaded, clean, private walkway to the river and there was a picnic table & fire pit with some wood beside it. We ended tubing down the river one day," notes camper Isabella K.
Hiking nearby: The White Mountains provide numerous trails within driving distance of campgrounds. At Country Bumpkins Campground and Cabins, visitors appreciate the central location. One camper stated, "Centrally located to Franconia Notch SP, Woodstock and Lincoln. This is a great little spot to enjoy all of the amazing outdoor activities in the area."
Local exploration: Many campgrounds serve as a convenient base for regional attractions. A Maple Haven camper shared: "Location is amazing... Close enough to walk to town and shop eat or bar hop! Close enough to some of the north country sites like the basin etc. Also a car museum."
What campers like
Private campsites: Ricker Pond State Park in nearby Vermont offers well-spaced sites. "The sites on the pond are beautiful if you can get one! The campground has a small beach, boat launch and it's right on the Cross Vermont Trail," explains Michele S.
Water features: Many campers appreciate the natural water features at campgrounds. At Pine Haven, campers enjoy the riverside setting: "This campground is a great place to bring a dog, especially if they enjoy running/playing in a river. The sites near the river are really nice, a bit of a steep slope down to the river. The river is about thigh deep and you can easily walk in it/swim at portions."
Family-friendly amenities: Campgrounds offer various recreational options for all ages. "Family friendly campground. Short drive to see wildlife from the road," states a Moose Hillock camper. Another mentions it has "plenty to do with the kids. They love the ship wreck pool! A bit tough on the noise rules. No internet connectivity!!"
What you should know
Connectivity limitations: Cell service varies significantly throughout the region. A camper at Littleton / Franconia Notch KOA Holiday observed: "Cute quiet campground right next to the river. Clean facilities. Ok WiFi. No Verizon coverage."
Weather preparation: The mountain climate can be unpredictable, especially in spring and fall. Pack layers and rain gear regardless of season. At Pine Haven, staff provide assistance during storms: "There was a storm forecasted, and the groundskeeper told us if it got bad she could open the store for us to stay in."
Reservation planning: Most campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "We went back in August. The stream was dried up, which I get, there was a drought," reported one Maple Haven camper, highlighting seasonal variations that can affect water features.
Tips for camping with families
Age-appropriate activities: Different campgrounds cater to different age groups. At Lincoln / Woodstock KOA, families find "Lots of family oriented activities. Fire truck ride, flashlight candy scavenger hunt, etc. Things appear to be clean and well maintained."
Site selection strategy: Choose sites based on proximity to bathrooms and play areas. One Country Bumpkins visitor advised: "There is a small arcade game room, WiFi at each site and an outdoor play area for kids." At Moose Hillock, a camper suggested: "If you have never been before, book a sight as close as possible to the pool and office, because the further you get, the higher the altitude."
Balance between amenities and nature: Some families prefer more natural settings while others want modern conveniences. A family camping at Ricker Pond appreciated that "The park itself is quiet and heavily wooded with most sites being right on the water. You could explore the woods all day, cool off in the lake before dinner, and drift off to sleep listening to the calls of the loons."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many campgrounds in the region have uneven terrain. At River Meadow Campground RV Park, campers note it's "primarily for RVs. Combo of seasonal and transient. Excellent services. On CT river w kayaks and canoes."
Hookup availability: Check for specific power requirements when booking. As one Lincoln/Woodstock KOA visitor pointed out, "50amp didn't seem to work at my site but 30amp was fine." Most campgrounds offer water hookups, but sewer connections may be limited.
Generator restrictions: National Forest campgrounds and some private sites have generator hour limitations. One Baker River visitor noted: "Friendly campers on either side of us. Only issue is u can only run generator 4 hours a day."
