Campsites near Sugar Hill, New Hampshire offer varying seasonal access patterns, with several facilities extending availability beyond the typical summer season. Nestled in the western White Mountains at elevations ranging from 1,500-2,000 feet, the region experiences temperature drops of 10-15 degrees compared to surrounding lowlands. During peak foliage season in late September through mid-October, nightly temperatures commonly dip below 40°F, requiring appropriate cold-weather gear.
What to do
Waterfall access from campgrounds: Several trails connect directly from camping areas to notable waterfalls. Dry River Campground provides immediate access to multiple waterfall hikes, with a ranger noting, "We hiked a trail right from the campground to Wiley's house it was 6 miles round trip with the dogs and the trail was well marked and we had ice cream at Wiley's house which was great" (Dry River Campground).
Pond swimming and fishing: Russell Pond Campground offers direct access to a peaceful pond for swimming and fishing. A camper shared, "Russell Pond is beautiful. A few things to know—many of the campsites are first come first serve, including the best ones by the pond which are also walk-up only... H3 which is one of the best in the whole place—adjacent to the lake with a small private beach for swimming" (Russell Pond Campground).
Winter camping options: Unlike many regional campgrounds that close after October, several facilities remain open year-round. At Apple Hill Campground, a winter camper noted, "If you want to hike the notch, it doesn't get much closer than here. Basic amenities, nothing fancy. far enough from the highway so that you don't hear it. Littleton is close enough that if you've forgotten something, you can easily find it there. Open four seasons!"
What campers like
River sites for ambient sound: Riverside camping is highly valued for the natural soundscape. At Lost River Valley Campground, a visitor mentioned, "Cute little campground with many sites right on the river. My family has stayed here twice. You can't really swim much in the river, but the kids had a blast playing in it and fishing for little trout" (Lost River Valley Campground).
Walk-in tent areas for privacy: Tent campers frequently praise walk-in sites for their seclusion. At Hancock Campground, a camper explained, "We prefer to go as far away from the lot as possible for maximum seclusion... The best part of this camping ground is its views. On a clear night, you can see a ton of stars encompassing around you- the only light pollution coming from you and your fellow campers fire" (Hancock Campground).
Clean bathroom facilities: Several campgrounds receive high marks for bathroom maintenance. Fransted Family Campground earned specific praise, with one reviewer stating, "The bathrooms are immaculate & the campsites are well ground. Fransted is central to all the white mountain attractions. The river is excellent for swimming, tubing and fishing."
What you should know
Highway noise impact: Traffic noise affects several campgrounds differently based on site selection. At Lafayette Place Campground, a camper warned, "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... You can hear the highway noise from all the sites, but I think 33, 34, and 35 are the quietest" (Lafayette Place Campground).
Water quality concerns: Water supply quality varies by location and season. One camper at Russell Pond Campground observed, "I recommend bringing plenty of water seeing as when we tried to fill up from the taps the water was very cloudy, almost white, we chose not to drink it."
Shower costs: Most campgrounds with shower facilities require payment. A visitor to Dry River Campground reported, "Coin operated showers ($0.25 for 3 minutes) and laundry. We base camped out of here and explored nearby trails, as well as Mt. Washington."
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly swimming spots: Families with children should seek sites near gentle water features. At Fransted Family Campground, a long-time visitor shared, "They have a big grass area and playground and activities for the children and families... The river is excellent for swimming, tubing and fishing. I have been coming with children through the years from toddlers to young adults" (Fransted Family Campground).
Active wildlife viewing: Several campgrounds offer opportunities for wildlife observation. At Dry River Campground, a camper mentioned, "Chipmunks surround you at all times, which was pretty epic and magical! Highly recommend this camp ground!"
Campground-organized activities: Some locations provide structured activities for children. Crazy Horse Family Campground received praise for its programming: "Family activities (DJ on some Saturday evenings), camping store, late check-in, clean bathrooms, clean/well-maintained campground... On Indigenous Peoples' Day, they do Trick or Treating & a Kid's hayride."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: RV campers should research site dimensions before booking. At Littleton/Franconia Notch KOA Holiday, an RVer noted, "Sites are on the small side on the back in side, but plenty of room on the pull in sites. Very friendly and helpful staff and beautiful views of the river" (Littleton/Franconia Notch KOA Holiday).
Limited full hookup availability: Many campgrounds offer only partial hookups. One camper at the KOA observed, "My only disappointment with the camp is that there are only a few sites with sewer hookup. However, the dumping station is conveniently located, so if you have a small tank, daily trips are not a problem."
Winter RV considerations: For winter RV camping, Apple Hill Campground provides year-round access, though with limitations. A visitor pointed out, "Older campground, friendly staff with lots of older seasonal sites. We paid $35 for a full hook up and had no problems."
