Camping near Randolph, New Hampshire offers access to multiple White Mountain National Forest areas with elevations ranging from 1,300 to 6,288 feet. Situated between the Northern Presidentials and the Carter-Moriah Range, this region experiences dramatic temperature shifts even in summer months, with nighttime temperatures frequently dropping below 50°F. Several dog-friendly campgrounds near Randolph provide convenient bases for exploring the extensive trail systems.
What to do
Swimming spots for cooling off: Dry River Campground visitors can enjoy the nearby mountain streams. "We base camped out of here and explored nearby trails, as well as Mt. Washington. You could hear the river babbling at night and had incredible views of Frankenstein Cliffs as you walked to the wash house," reports Nathan S.
Hiking accessible trails: Sugarloaf 1 Campground offers easy access to several trails. "Zealand, Hale, and the Sugarloafs are walkable from the site, and Franconia Ridge or Grafton Notch hikes are a short drive away," notes Rick W. The campground provides a strategic location for hitting multiple trails without long drives.
Local attractions: White Birches Camping Park puts you near regional attractions. "Only about a 5 minute drive to the center of town/Walmart and about a 15-20 minute drive to the Mt Washington Auto Road," says Mallory P. The campground even offers a trail leading to a swimming basin that several reviewers described as "absolutely gorgeous and a must see."
What campers like
Private wooded sites: At Crawford Notch Campground, campers appreciate the secluded spots. "The campground was very clean and well organized, and the sites were relatively private. There were some camp sites right on the river," shares Brian J., who visited with his family.
River access for relaxation: Town Hall Road Dispersed camping area offers riverside sites. "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. Then walk down a bit and there's a large group site with another pit. Down toward the river there was plenty of open space so we pitched there and built a fire pit," explains Erin H.
Clean facilities: Dolly Copp Campground receives praise for its maintenance. "You'll find new bathrooms with showers, roadways, and sites with and without electric hookups. Many of the sites are in open fields, but others provide shelter in the woods," notes Jean C., highlighting the recent renovations.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Mountain weather changes rapidly. "The weather can be volatile in the park and rains frequently, so be sure to bring plenty of gear and dress warmly if you plan to visit," advises Rachel P. about camping in the White Mountains.
Wildlife awareness: Jefferson Campground serves as a good location for hiking the Presidential Range. "This large national forest campground is in the midst of extensive renovations that are expected to continue until 2021. The RV sites have full hookups and the tent area is tucked into a wooded area with wild apple trees," explains Susan B.
Road access variations: Some campgrounds have challenging access roads. "We went to the end of Town Hall Road and camped at the last site before you leave the WMNF. It was a very spacious site, set back from the road, a little bumpy getting into it," shares Bob G. about Town Hall Road Dispersed camping.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Several campgrounds offer dedicated recreation options. "Perfect for family camping! Fishing, swimming, river walks, biking and movie nights!" reports J L. about Moose Brook State Park.
Playgrounds and pools: Timberland Campground offers multiple amenities. "Great campground! Very clean, private showers, working bathrooms. The pool is small and heated, very comfortable! River on backside of campsite is amazing!" notes Robert L., highlighting facilities that appeal to families with children.
Easy hiking options: Family-friendly trails are accessible from many campgrounds. "There is a formal trail to the river from the back of the loop, near 16B (lean-to)," Jean C. mentions about Dry River Campground, noting that there are shorter, less challenging routes suitable for children.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: RV campers should research specific sites. "Some of the sites are a bit small/close together, so look elsewhere if you are going for seclusion," advises Angela T. about Timberland Campground, pointing out the importance of checking site dimensions before booking.
Hookup reliability: White Birches Camping Park offers reliable services. "Older campground run by an experienced and friendly couple. Varied sites that have what most are looking for. Some open sites up front with wooded sites further in," notes Gary C., who stayed in an RV.
Leveling challenges: Not all sites are level, requiring preparation. "Some complaints that some sites weren't level, but ours was acceptable," shares Katie E. about Jefferson Campground, suggesting that RVers should bring leveling blocks when visiting White Mountain campgrounds.
