The White Mountains region near Silver Lake, New Hampshire offers diverse glamping and camping opportunities at elevations ranging from 500 to 1,000 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 70-80°F during the day and cool to 50-60°F at night, while spring and fall bring cooler temperatures that can drop below freezing. Most campgrounds in the area operate from May through mid-October, with varying levels of amenities depending on their distance from Conway.
What to do
Hiking trails with mountain views: White Ledge Campground offers access to the White Ledge Loop, a 4.1-mile trail with spectacular mountain vistas. "We hiked the White Ledge Loop which was 4.1 miles and got amazing views. The brooks running through are beautiful. Just a super awesome hidden gem," notes camper Sarah J.
River activities in multiple locations: The Swift and Saco Rivers provide excellent opportunities for water recreation. At Eastern Slope Camping Area, campers can enjoy river access via two beaches. "The river was awesome," writes Sue W., while another visitor notes, "Great location with easy ride to all North Conway attractions. Nice hay ride and playground. The beach is sandy and lots of room to spread out."
Campground activities for rainy days: Many glamping sites offer indoor recreation options when weather doesn't cooperate. "The pavilion and fire pit area are a nice place to gather with games and a mining station to enjoy," mentions a camper about Eastern Slope, while others note the availability of game rooms and arcades at several campgrounds in the area.
What campers like
Private, spacious sites: Covered Bridge Campground earns praise for its site layout and privacy. "The sites are quite large and have a good amount of space between them. Picnic tables and firepits are in great shape," writes Melissa W. Another camper mentions, "Sites are large and level. All sites are wooded with plenty of trees to get a good tarp, and lots of options for hammock placement."
River swimming opportunities: Natural water access ranks high on campers' favorite features. "There is swimming/bathing in the Swift River but it was low (we are in a draught). There is a great big beach right on the Saco River that was excellent!" writes Joseph N. about Jellystone Park Glen Ellis.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The region offers chances to observe local wildlife. "While we were there there were 2 active bears. They circled our camper at night. It was incredible to watch. Of course we never left any food out!" shares Liz S. about Jellystone Park Glen Ellis, while another camper mentions hearing loons calling on the lake at night.
What you should know
Bear safety is essential: Multiple campgrounds report bear activity. "We are in bear country so plan accordingly," advises a camper at Waterville Campground. Another visitor writes, "After checking in, one of the camp staff came by because they had forgotten to remind us to take care of our food and gear at night as there are black bears in the area."
Bathroom facilities vary widely: From rustic vault toilets to modern facilities, expectations should match the campground type. "There are no sinks. There are signs to wash your hand but not a single sink during Covid. The bathrooms are outhouses. No flush and not pleasant smelling. No mirrors or lights or sinks in the bathrooms," notes one camper at Waterville Campground.
Site selection impacts experience: Reviews consistently mention how campsite location affects the overall stay. "Sites are very close to each other," writes Sable W., while another notes, "If you're in a tent, the sites along the back side of the loop, up the hill, offer some extra privacy." Researching specific sites before booking is recommended for both tent and RV campers.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with organized activities: White Lake State Park Campground offers family-friendly environments with scheduled recreation. "This is a wonderful place with lots of trees and sites that are reasonably spaced, if not all that private. There is a nice beach and a trail that goes around the entire small lake," shares Carolyn M. "We took the kids there for years and we all loved it."
Consider proximity to attractions: Several campgrounds provide easy access to local family activities. "A great family campground just South of Conway, NH. Close to groceries, the outlets, plenty of restaurants," writes Angela T. about White Lake State Park. "Across the street to the North is the fabulous Rosie's Diner, a homey place with amazing food and home-baked bread."
Choose campgrounds with swimming options: Water access ranks high for family enjoyment. "You can rent canoes, hike around the lake, and the kids could safely ride their bikes around the campground," says Carolyn M. Another camper notes, "The beach area is very nice and has lots of tables and grills. We were able to hear the loons calling on the lake at night too."
Tips from RVers
Check site leveling requirements: Some glamping sites and RV pads require significant leveling. "Most of the waterfront sites are back in, and the only level part of the site is away from the deck and water. My wife wanted to get the camper up close to the deck so our area under the awning was close to that, which meant I had a lot more leveling to do. And when I say a lot, I mean my 5" drive on leveling blocks weren't enough," shares Michael K. about Chocorua KOA.
Plan for water quality variations: Some campgrounds have water quality issues. "The water is very brown/rusty. We didn't feel comfortable drinking it," notes one camper. Others recommend bringing drinking water or treatment options, especially at more remote locations.
Research access routes: Road conditions and bridge restrictions can impact larger vehicles. "The road in for RVs is not terrific. There is about a 1/2 mile that is mostly one lane (with a drop off on one side) and if someone is coming decisions have to be made," warns Norma S. Another notes, "If your rig is >7'9" you'll need to enter via Passaconaway Rd via West Side Rd in Conway."
