Campgrounds around Stark, New Hampshire sit within the rugged White Mountains region at elevations typically between 900-1,500 feet. Many camping areas operate seasonally due to harsh winter conditions, with most open from May through mid-October. The region features numerous mountain brooks and small ponds that create natural water features near campsites.
What to do
Hiking accessible trails: Mountain Lake Camping Resort offers excellent access to White Mountain hiking. "We had an amazing family camping trip to Mountain Lake Campground. This is definitely one of those campgrounds that has something for everyone. All of the attractions of the White Mountains plus all of the amenities you could ask for in a campground," notes one visitor.
Water activities on small lakes: At Sugar Ridge RV Village & Campground, campers can enjoy swimming pools and other water features. "Lots of great sites, clean, lots of amenities (almost everything) and activities. Can be tough to get into because so nice and popular in a good location," explains a camper.
Winter recreation: Cannon Mountain RV Park provides year-round access to seasonal activities. "Perfect for ski bums. Access to xcs, downhill, and snow machine trails," states one winter visitor. The park maintains 7 full-hookup RV sites even during colder months, though water is shut off after Columbus Day.
What campers like
Clean shower facilities: Fransted Family Campground receives consistently positive feedback for cleanliness. "Excellent Campground. Good location. Pretty sites with plenty of room. Good sites for both large and small campers. Our site was an easy pull through, wooded site, close to bath house, plenty big enough for our T@B 320," reports a satisfied camper.
Privacy between sites: Moose Brook State Park Campground offers well-spaced camping areas. "New shower and bathroom building was clean. Campsites were well spaced," notes a visitor. Another camper adds, "Large, new Adirondack shelters and tent sites. Get the shelter....only $4 more per day ahd huge!"
River access for cooling off: Many campers appreciate waterfront sites. "The Brook was relaxing. also the campground it's really close to Cannon Mountain," mentions one review of Fransted Family Campground. These natural water features provide relief during warmer summer months.
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: Most RV sites near Stark, New Hampshire close during winter. Mountain Lake Camping Resort operates from "May 15 to October 15" according to their listing, which aligns with most area campgrounds' seasons.
Cell service variability: Connectivity depends on terrain and location. At Sugar Ridge, one camper reported: "Decent cell phone signal (Verizon)," though signal strength varies significantly between valleys and higher elevations.
Reservation requirements: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially on weekends. "We stayed here and were VERY happy! Dog friendly, mini golf, heated pool, two playgrounds, and crafts and fun things for the kids!" notes a camper at Sugar Ridge, mentioning it's a sought-after location.
Campground sizes vary significantly: Cannon Mountain RV Park is notably small with just 7 sites, while other facilities offer dozens or over 100 spots. "This is one of our favorite trips every year! The campground is small, only 7 sites, but located at the base of Cannon mountain nestled next to Echo lake it's simply breathtaking!" explains one visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with dedicated kids' activities: Mountain Lake Camping Resort offers numerous child-friendly amenities. "If you're looking for a safe, family friendly, quiet campground this is it. Pool with water slides for kids, Kayaks, paddle boats, canoes, playground with slides and a pirate ship," states one satisfied parent.
Consider noise policies: Quiet hours vary between campgrounds. Mountain Lake enforces "Strict quiet hours at 1030 make it very quiet in the evening with no worry of loud parties keeping you up," which helps families with younger children.
Cabin options for easier family camping: Several locations offer alternatives to tent camping. "We camped in a large group and stayed in yurts, cabins, the tee pee and tents/trailers. Everyone was happy with their stay. The rental units were clean and some of the cabins even had bathrooms/kitchenettes," notes a Mountain Lake visitor.
Tips from RVers
Check for pull-through availability: RV sites with easier access exist at several campgrounds. Rogers Campground offers convenient options, as one camper notes: "Easy pull in sites. View from our site was gorgeous!"
Understand hookup limitations: Many campgrounds offer partial connections. Cedar Pond Campground features 32 sites with water and electric hookups for larger RVs but lacks a sanitary dump station, requiring planning for longer stays.
Consider seasonal sites for extended stays: Rogers Campground offers seasonal options for those planning multiple visits. "We are traveling for work with our travel trailer (34ft) from Indiana and were able to call about 2wks prior to coming and they offered us a seasonal stay, may-October ~2250," explains one long-term camper.