White Mountain campgrounds near Randolph, New Hampshire offer camping options at elevations between 1,000 and 1,600 feet. The region experiences temperature fluctuations with summer nights dropping into the 40s even when daytime temperatures reach the 80s. Winter camping requires preparation for snow conditions and limited facilities as most campgrounds close seasonally.
What to do
Hiking access from campsite: Barnes Field Campground provides an ideal base for tackling nearby Presidential peaks. "This site is also open in winter (one of the few) on a first come, first serve basis for those hearty enough to brave the frigid New England winter," notes one camper, making it suitable for multi-season exploration.
Riverside recreation: For water-based activities, the Saco River at Jellystone Park Glen Ellis offers swimming and tubing options. A visitor describes, "Located between the Ellis River and the Saco River, this campground offers so many fantastic amenities. One of the biggest ones that we took lots of advantage of is the swimming and tubing on the Saco River."
Winter camping spots: While most campgrounds close for winter, Zealand Campground stays accessible for cold-weather adventure. "Nice access and right by the river. Close to a lot of hiking trails and other areas," reports a camper, though noting road noise as a consideration.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Campers consistently praise the seclusion at Moose Brook State Park Campground. One visitor shares, "Large, new Adirondack shelters and tent sites. Get the shelter....only $4 more per day ahd huge! All the facilities are phenomenally well maintained."
Family-friendly amenities: Twin Mountain Campground receives high marks for cleanliness and kid-appropriate facilities. "Awesome family spot. Stayed the last weekend in June and I was able to book the site 3 days prior. I was shocked there was still availability," remarks one visitor who appreciated the convenient bathrooms and river access.
Yurt options: For those seeking yurt camping near Randolph, New Hampshire, Mountain Lake Camping Resort offers these unique accommodations. A camper notes, "We camped in a large group and stayed in yurts, cabins, the tee pee and tents/trailers. Everyone was happy with their stay."
What you should know
Campground access variations: Some sites require advanced planning. At Jefferson Campground, a visitor cautions, "This place is a bit off the beaten path of White Mountain tourist areas but is still within easy drive to all the major attractions. We picked this spot for that exact reason."
Weather conditions: Prepare for temperature swings in this mountainous region. A Zealand Campground visitor advises, "Gets pretty cold here at night," making sleeping bags rated for temperatures 10-15 degrees below expected lows advisable.
Wildlife considerations: Bears frequent some campgrounds. "We have stayed at Moose Brook State Park a number of times over the years to gain easy access to the hiking trails in the White Mountains... on a number of occasions we have seen moose or bear in the area."
Tips for camping with families
Water features for kids: Multiple pools and water recreation spots keep children entertained. At Mountain Lake Camping Resort, "There is a heated pool with water slides that even adults can enjoy, a lake for swimming and boating with rentals available, activities for the kids, a playground and giant life-size checker/chess boards."
Campground entertainment options: Look for on-site recreation beyond hiking. "Perfect for family camping! Fishing, swimming, river walks, biking and movie nights!" reports a Moose Brook State Park visitor.
Bath facilities: Clean bathrooms matter with children. A visitor to Twin Mountain Campground shares, "The riverfront sights looked absolutely beautiful and some had better/easier access to the water then others. We had our travel trailer and it was easy to get it in and out and the dump station was conveniently located on the way out as well as the dumpster for trash."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: Not all sites accommodate larger rigs. At Jefferson Campground, an RVer notes, "I originally chose a site that was a bit too small to properly unhook the trailer but staff helped me get a better location. Site 17 was too tight for 44 ft total length. Switched to site 5 pull through."
Hookup availability: Ammonoosuc Campground offers full hookups for extended stays. "Our site was clean, plenty big enough. We tented, but majority of sites were for RVs. Good mix of seasonal campers and daily," mentions a camper who appreciated the clean facilities.
RV-friendly campground amenities: Services vary between locations. A visitor to Ammonoosuc notes, "The bathhouse is clean, well-lit, and heated (a treat on those cold autumn mornings). There's also a laundry room with 4 washers and dryers if you need to clean up or dry out after a rough day on the trails."
