Camping options near Rumney, New Hampshire range across 800-1200 feet of elevation in the Pemigewasset River Valley. The region experiences warm summer days with temperatures reaching 75-85°F and cool nights dropping to 45-55°F. Most campgrounds in this area open from mid-May through mid-October, with peak season crowding on weekends from late June through August.
What to do
Climbing access at Lost River Valley Campground: Located 30 minutes from Rumney's climbing crags, this campground offers a convenient basecamp. "We came with friends in June 2017 to hike Mount Cannon. Feels good to say I did it, but the hike is definitely not for novices. It's exhausting for a pro," notes Rachel P. from Lafayette Place Campground.
River tubing on the Pemigewasset: Put in upstream and float back to camp on warm summer days. "My favorite activity was putting in a couple miles up river and floating back to camp over the course of a few hours, ultimate lazy river," says Eddy B. from Plymouth Sands Camping Area.
Hiking White Mountains trails: Numerous trails within 15-30 minutes of most campgrounds range from beginner to expert difficulty. "Welch Dickey Trailhead is only 15 minutes away. The campground is directly at the Pemigewasset River with several access points and plenty of space for walking and stretching your legs," according to Mara S. at Branch Brook Campground.
What campers like
Overnight convenience to climbing areas: "This place was a great option for staying close to Rumney for climbing. They have a group campsite specifically for climbers, which was $10 a person when we stayed there," mentions Kel K. from Baker River Campground.
Wooded privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer natural separation. "The sites are pretty well spaced apart and well kept. The bathrooms were decently clean and the showers did not need quarters (which was a huge plus)," writes Kayleen C. about Pine Haven.
Natural swimming spots: "Multiple RVs, we were the only tent site at the time which made it very secluded and nice. Site was directly next to a babbling brook," Hannah shares about her experience at Pine Haven. Shallow river access points let dogs and people cool off without deep water concerns.
What you should know
River water levels vary seasonally: Spring brings higher, faster flows while late summer levels drop significantly. "The river was slow and low in early August, but in early May they have the Baker River Regatta with some quickwater," notes Jean C. about Plymouth Sands.
Wildlife precautions are necessary: Many campsites provide bear boxes for food storage. "Appreciated having a bear box on our site, especially since we couldn't keep anything in our car. It was big enough to fit our grill, cooler, trash, and bag of groceries," reports Lindsey M. from Hancock Campground.
Weekend availability is limited: Reservations recommended for summer stays, especially at pet-friendly sites. "You'll probably want to be closer to the river (although people will get up early to fish, get on the river etc.) because there is traffic along the road (not awful, but still semi constant)," advises Elliott B. about Hancock Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with beach access: Safe, shallow water areas work best with children. "The campground has nice amenities and great little store. The beat part is the location to the river. It wraps around the campground making it a great place to go tubing," recommends Shawn D. from Branch Brook Campground.
Consider noise factors: Highway-adjacent sites may disturb light sleepers. "As far as the individual sites go, they are fairly standard. However, the noise from Highway 93 is intolerable! 18-wheelers blowing by at all hours of the day and night, making it very difficult to enjoy a restful sleep," cautions Lee D. about Lafayette Place Campground.
Check for family activities: Some campgrounds organize weekend events. "Has everything from tents to RVs and beach to pool along with a playground for the younger ones. Dogs are allowed. Activities such as candy bingo and wagon rides," notes Suu F. about Branch Brook Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in this mountainous region have uneven terrain. "Sites vary dramatically in size, ground levelness etc. We lucked out. Site 44 was plenty large enough for our tent. A little gravely underneath but still comfortable," explains Lucas from Campton Campground.
Limited hook-ups at public campgrounds: National Forest campgrounds typically lack electrical and water connections. "This is a larger campground. The sites are clean and well kept but are close in proximity of each other. None are private. This would be great for multiple families wanting to camp together," advises Samantha C. about Campton Campground.
Winter access considerations: Some campgrounds maintain limited winter operations. "I stayed here for two nights in late December. Site #40 along the river was close to the bathroom yet had plenty of privacy from other sites. Water would have earned it five stars," notes Heather B. about her winter experience at Hancock Campground.
Scout
