The Stark, New Hampshire area offers primitive camping options in the White Mountain National Forest. Positioned at elevations ranging from 700-1,200 feet, the region experiences cooler temperatures than surrounding areas, with summer highs typically in the 70s and winter temperatures frequently dropping below freezing. First-come, first-served campgrounds are common, with most open seasonally from late May through mid-October.
What to do
Riverside relaxation: Hancock Campground features prime riverside sites along the Pemigewasset River where visitors can set up hammocks near the water. "Set up a hammock on the shoreline and have a tasty beverage before bed. Sites can be close together," notes Mike M. in his review of Hancock Campground.
Winter camping adventures: Several campgrounds remain open during winter months, allowing for cold-weather excursions. "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," reports Heather B. about her winter experience at Hancock Campground.
Water activities: The area offers multiple ponds for paddling and fishing within short distances. "Swimming and boating is a short ride in a couple different directions, Osmore pond, Kettle pond, or Ricker pond," explains Rick S. about the water access from New Discovery State Park Campground.
Rail trail exploration: Converted rail corridors provide miles of flat terrain for hiking or biking. Rick S. adds, "Right along a long rail trail where you can put in many miles and not even know it."
What campers like
Private waterfront access: Secluded sites on small ponds offer unique camping experiences. "We had the most perfect spot in a private site on osmore pond that was accessible only by canoe! Quiet, serene, beautiful!" raves Sambath T. about New Discovery State Park.
Variety of site options: Campgrounds feature diverse site layouts catering to different preferences. "There are sites with electric hookups as well as some without. Some sites are in the middle of a grassy field while others are tucked in the trees," notes Sarah C. when describing Groton Forest Road Campground.
Lean-to shelters: Some campgrounds provide rustic shelter options beyond traditional tent sites. Rick S. explains, "We stayed at the Eagle leanto and is perfect for hanging multiple hammocks."
Bear boxes at tent sites: Several riverside tent sites include bear-proof storage containers for food safety. "We appreciated having a bear box on our site, especially since we couldn't keep anything in our car," mentions Lindsey M.
What you should know
Seasonal bee activity: During warm months, some sites experience significant insect presence. "Our site was completely swarmed with bees. We checked a few vacant sites to see if maybe it was just our site, but we found them all around, including all over the cars in the lot," warns Lindsey M. at Hancock Campground.
Bathroom facilities vary: Campgrounds offer different levels of bathroom amenities depending on location and season. "The campground loops have bath houses, complete with coin operated showers. Park staff were attentive and restrooms were being cleaned with frequency," reports Sarah C. about New Discovery State Park.
Site accessibility challenges: Walk-in tent sites may require significant effort to transport gear. "These sites were carry-in only, which wasn't convenient, and it was a lot of work to carry all of our gear from the parking lot to the site (the main part of the path was a hill)," explains Lindsey M.
Non-threaded water spigots: Some campgrounds have water access limitations. Laura M. notes, "The spigots for the water are not threaded. We tried our water bandit, with messy wet results."
Tips for camping with families
Sheltered options for families: Lean-tos provide unique accommodations suitable for families seeking shelter beyond tents. "The lean-to sites are really cool, and if I was tent camping I think they'd be so fun to sleep in," shares Laura M. about New Discovery State Park Campground.
Swimming holes for children: Accessible water features provide safe recreation for families. "There is also a fabulous swimming hole. Clear, cold and deep just off the car camping area," describes Tara S.
Off-season advantages: Consider visiting during shoulder seasons for fewer crowds. "We were the only ones in it and we picked the site right next to the rambling river. It was amazing," reports Molly G. about her October visit.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The forest areas offer chances to observe local fauna. Laura M. mentions, "We saw fresh moose poop on a hike but sadly no moose or other wildlife. There are bears around the area though so please be bear smart when camping here."
Tips from RVers
Site selection importance: RV campers should carefully research specific site dimensions. "Each site is so different and may or may not fit an RV. Some sites are so sloped I don't even know how a car would camp there," cautions Laura M. about New Discovery State Park Campground.
Limited horse facilities: While equestrian-friendly campgrounds near Stark, New Hampshire are scarce, some camping areas in the broader region accommodate horse trailers. Reid B. notes, "The spots were spacious with enough privacy between sites," indicating potential for larger vehicles at some locations.
Dump station access: RVers can find facilities for waste management at select campgrounds. Laura M. explains, "There is a dump station and drinking water on site, but the spigots for the water are not threaded."
Seasonal reservations: Securing spots during peak seasons requires advance planning. "Reservations are def a plus. Can be difficult to get into on the weekend," advises Saige V. about weekend availability.
