Plainfield, New Hampshire sits at an elevation of 804 feet within the Connecticut River Valley. The area experiences four distinct seasons with winter temperatures often dropping below freezing and summer days averaging in the mid-70s to 80s. Local campgrounds range from developed sites with full amenities to more primitive camping areas, all within a 30-minute drive of the White River Junction area.
What to do
Hike to Deer Leap Overlook: Access this trail directly from Gifford Woods State Park Campground. "Also, the campsite lies directly on the Appalachian trail, so for a shorter or less-intensive hike, walk about 2.5 miles to the Deer Leap Overlook for some incredible views of the mountain ranges nearby," notes Kyle R.
Fish in local waterways: The rivers near Crow's Nest Campground provide good fishing opportunities. "Mostly seasonals and RVs but there are some nice spots by the river. There's nice little swimming area on the river for kids. Close to the Sugar River Rail trail for biking," writes Michele S.
Visit nearby Killington: While staying near Plainfield, take advantage of summer activities at Killington Resort. "Killington Resort is a bit west of Woodstock. Killington offers summer mountain biking, zip lines, adventure climbs and roller coasters, as well as the K1 Gondola to the peak," shares Chris A.
What campers like
Large, private sites: Quechee-Pine Valley KOA receives high marks for spaciousness. "From the second we pulled into this campground we were greeted with 5 star service and friendly staff. A woman met us at my truck and checked us in and we were then guided to our site," says Kevin Ó.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention cleanliness at Emerald Lake State Park Campground. "Clean, well spaced, and paved roads," notes Robert N. Another camper adds, "Might be the nicest bathrooms I've seen in decades of camping."
Riverside camping: Several campgrounds offer sites along rivers. "We had a site right on the river and the view was amazing. The sites are pretty well spaced apart and well kept. The bathrooms were decently clean and the showers did not need quarters," says Kayleen C. about Pine Haven.
What you should know
Limited yurt camping options: True yurt camping near Plainfield, New Hampshire is limited. Caton Place Campground is one of the few offering yurt accommodations within driving distance. "Bath House is currently being updated. It is very clean," reports William.
Road noise: Some campgrounds experience traffic sounds. "Road noise isn't super loud, but it's constant," warns one camper. Another notes, "The park is in a good location; it is right next to the road."
Seasonal limitations: Most campgrounds in the area operate from late May through mid-October. "Open 5/22/2020 - 10/18/2020" is typical for the season, with exact dates varying slightly between locations.
Tips for camping with families
Educational programs: Look for ranger-led activities at state parks. "Rangers also run fun programs for children - my children churned butter and made popcorn over the campfire one night, and made tie dyed T-shirts the next (for no fee)," shares Jen B.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds offer water access for cooling off. "The turquoise water is a dream to cool off in. There's a small, sandy beach at one end of the lake, with a bath house and changing rooms nearby. Swimmers can swim out to a small island in the middle of the lake," describes one visitor.
Choose sites carefully: When staying with children, site selection matters. "If you have little ones, check out the map before you reserve a site and find one on the opposite side of the ledge," advises a camper about hilly terrain at Emerald Lake.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookups: For those requiring power, options exist but reserve early. "We paid $57/night for our full hookup site which is pretty costly especially since we did not use any of the amenities. Most sites are gravel with gravel patios but there are deluxe sites with paved patios, furniture, umbrella, and gas BBQ grill."
Dump stations: Not all campgrounds offer sewer hookups. "There are no hookups but they do have a dump station if you are in an RV. They also have several lean-tos that you can rent," mentions Jan B.
Site navigation: RVers should research access roads before arrival. "Despite the hilliness of the park and all the trees, we did not have any trouble navigating our 45' RV to our site. The trees at our site would prevent satellite television reception but our site had cable and we got about 20 or so channels."
