A
Amber G.
Scout
ScoutTripoli Road
So much fun!
Went on a weekend and it was still very peaceful! Lots to do on such a beautiful back road. We stayed at two different sites each night we were there and both were equally beautiful and peaceful
Camping near Tamworth, NH
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Tamworth, New Hampshire sits at the gateway to the White Mountains, providing a strategic base for exploring diverse camping environments. White Lake State Park Campground, located directly in Tamworth, offers lakeside camping with swimming access from May through early October. Within a 30-minute drive, campers find options ranging from full-service RV resorts like Danforth Bay in Freedom to more rustic Forest Service sites along the Kancamagus Highway. The Chocorua KOA provides family-friendly amenities including cabin rentals, while those seeking more seclusion can explore White Ledge Campground with its wooded tent sites. This area serves as an ideal jumping-off point for both the Lakes Region to the south and the mountain terrain to the north.
Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally from May through mid-October, with limited winter camping options. Cell service varies significantly throughout the area, with stronger signals near towns and limited to no coverage in more remote locations. As one camper noted, "We did not have cellular service at Big Rock, but did have access to cell service in the town of Lincoln, 8 minutes away." Road noise can be an issue at some locations, particularly those situated near highways. A reviewer of White Ledge Campground mentioned, "The proximity to the busy road was unfortunate. We could hear cars the entire night which was a little annoying." Advance reservations are strongly recommended during summer weekends and holiday periods when campgrounds frequently reach capacity.
Proximity to water features ranks high in camper satisfaction throughout the region. The shoreline at White Lake State Park provides swimming opportunities in a natural setting, while Danforth Bay offers lake access for boating and fishing. According to one visitor, "The campground is huge with over 300 sites set on nearly 200 acres and along a beautiful lake!" Hikers appreciate the convenient access to trailheads, with several campgrounds serving as bases for exploring the White Mountains. Sites along rivers receive positive mentions, with one camper noting, "The Swift River is in walking distance and offers a great place to relax after a long day in the New Hampshire woods." Privacy levels vary considerably between campgrounds, with some offering well-spaced, wooded sites and others featuring more open layouts with limited separation between campers.
Best Campgrounds near Tamworth (307)
1. White Lake State Park Campground
"Last weekend, our family stayed at White Lake State Park for four days."
"I’ve stayed here a few times and love the location and access to White Lake."
from $35 - $105 / night
Check Availability2. Danforth Bay Camping & RV Resort
"This campground is huge with over 300 sites set on nearly 200 acres and along a beautiful lake!"
"We love the golf carts and sandy beaches as well as the proximity to North Conway and Lake Ossipee. Staff are nice, quiet time is a bit over enforced."
from $40 - $85 / night
Check Availability3. Covered Bridge
"He absolutely loved it and there was plenty of space in the tent site for him to roam around."
"Our site was spacious and backed up to a little ravine so it was fairly private even though it was right next to the bathrooms (also convenient). We weren’t far from a hand pump water spigot, either."
from $30 / night
Check Availability4. Eastern Slope Camping Area
"A large wooden shelter stood over our picnic table, with a decent amount of space next to it for tents or a small camper."
"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. We visited Story Land and Mt."
5. Jigger Johnson Campground
"Located on the Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire, Jigger Johnson is one of those great sites that has close proximity to plenty of hiking, exploring, swimming and isn't too far from the hustle and bustle"
"earlier in the day, around 1 pm when new campers are welcomed."
from $24 / night
Check Availability6. White Ledge Campground
"White Ledge Campground is in the White Mountain National Forest and should not be confused with nearby White Lake State Park."
"Water spigot and vault toilets, dumpsters all within easy walking distance of all sites. Great spot to start Carter Ledge Trail to hike Three Sisters and Mount Chocorua."
from $30 / night
Check Availability7. Chocorua KOA
"There were some rules in place in order to ensure social distancing and reduce risk to ourselves and to the staff."
"They were wooded and in a central location close to the playgrounds, pavilion, beach and nature trails."
from $45 - $110 / night
Check Availability8. Dry River Campground — Crawford Notch State Park
"Cool location right on the edge of the Dry River Wilderness. Great Basecamp for lots of hikes in the area. Some spots are right on the highway with not much tree cover in between so can be loud."
"This state park campground located between Rte 302 and the Dry River in Crawford Notch is a great location for exploring family friendly trails to (Sawyer Pond, Arethusa Falls, Willard Cliffs to name a"
from $35 - $40 / night
Check Availability9. Passaconaway Campground
"The campground borders the Kancamangus Highway on one side, and the tranquil Swift River on the other."
"I only gave the campground 4 stars because the campground is so close to the Kancamagus Highway that you can hear cars and bikes through most of the night."
from $25 / night
Check Availability10. Waterville Campground
"Located super close to Waterville valley ski area, hiking, golf, etc."
"A path leads straight down to the river, which we can hear running from the tents at night. The caretaker is one of the friendliest I’ve met, and he keeps the sites and bathrooms very clean."
from $24 / night
Check Availability
Drive Time
- 1 hr 21 min from Manchester, NH
- 1 hr 31 min from Lewiston, ME
- 1 hr 39 min from Portland, ME
- 2 hrs 47 min from Burlington, VT
Recent Camping Photos near Tamworth, NH
749 Photos of 307 Tamworth Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Recent Reviews near Tamworth, NH
1382 Reviews of 307 Tamworth Campgrounds
- MMarie S.Scout
Gunstock Campground
Apparently Your Reserved Site Is More of a Suggestion
⭐**Gunstock Campground: Apparently Your Reserved Site Is More of a Suggestion**
I don't believe I have**ever** left a negative Google review. I generally think that when something goes wrong, you contact the business, give them an opportunity to make it right, and most businesses are genuinely interested in doing exactly that.
Gunstock Campground has cured me of that quaint notion.
I reserved a full-hookup campsite for two nights. I was unable to make it there the first night, but arrived shortly after 7:00 a.m. the next morning. The camp store, where registration takes place, wasn't open yet, so I headed out for my planned hike— about six miles through the Belknaps, including summiting Rowe twice and Gunstock.
By the time I returned, I was utterly exhausted, starving, and actually feeling weak. My ambitions for the afternoon were modest:**eat something, take a shower, and collapse at the campsite I had paid for.**
The staff at the camp store greeted me warmly, checked me in, and sent me on my way.
I drove to my site. There was already a camper in it. Not merely*parked* there, mind you. They had apparently moved right in. They were hooked up to**my site's water and electric**, with water spraying from their ill-fitting hose connection and forming a rather impressive puddle underneath the camper.
I returned to the camp store to report that someone had apparently activated Gunstock's new**"Choose Any Site You Like"** camping plan. A staff member went down to speak with them and came back to tell me they were "packing up." Excellent! My mistake was assuming" packing up" meant**leaving**. It did not.
Apparently these campers had actually reserved a site**two rows away** that had**no water or electric**. Yet somehow, sometime after arriving the previous night, they had accidentally found themselves two rows over, in my clearly different site, connected to utilities their reservation didn't include.
We've all made mistakes. I've occasionally parked one space away from where I intended. I've never accidentally parked**two rows away, hooked myself up to someone else's electricity and water, and spent the night.**
But perhaps I lack imagination.
After they had now consumed about an hour of my afternoon— which, incidentally, is an hour I normally bill at attorney rates— I went back toward my site expecting to find it finally vacated.
And it was! Because Gunstock had moved these folks to another site**two spaces away from me**, apparently allowing them to pay for the upgrade they had already been test-driving. So the people who knowingly or unknowingly occupied my reserved full-hookup site, used the utilities, and delayed me from getting into the site I paid for were rewarded with...a nearby full-hookup site.
They never walked over to apologize. At that point, I no longer felt comfortable staying. It's difficult to relax at a campground when you've just discovered that site assignments appear to operate somewhat on the honor system— and that when someone helps themselves to your reserved site and utilities, management's solution is apparently to make sure *they* remain comfortably accommodated nearby. So I left. On my way home, I called Gunstock and asked for a refund. Surely, I thought, this would be the easy part. After all, I had paid for two nights, hadn't used the first, couldn't get into my site when I arrived for the second, waited while unauthorized occupants vacated it, and ultimately left because the entire experience had become so unpleasant.
Nope. Instead, the staff member **defended the other campers**. I was told they arrived late and "mistakenly" took my site. I was even told they supposedly **hadn't used the utilities**. This was particularly fascinating information for me to receive because **I PERSONALLY SAW THEM HOOKED UP TO THE WATER AND ELECTRIC.** I also took photographs. Including the enormous puddle underneath their camper from the leaking water connection. But apparently my eyewitness account and photographs were no match for the alternative version of events.
For my inconvenience, however, Gunstock did give me a coupon for a **free Bavarian pretzel**. So there is that.
I paid for a full-hookup campsite. Someone else occupied it and used the hookups. I lost roughly an hour waiting to access what I had reserved. The other campers were accommodated with an upgraded site nearby. I left because I no longer felt comfortable staying. And when I asked Gunstock to make the situation right, they refused to refund me and instead argued with me about things **I had personally witnessed and photographed**. The most disappointing part isn't that another camper took my site. Campers can behave badly. Businesses can't control everything their customers do. **What a business CAN control is how it responds when that happens. ** Gunstock had every opportunity to turn this into a mildly annoying story about a camping mix-up. Instead, they turned it into my first negative Google review.
But hey... **I do have that free pretzel coupon.**
- KKrista R.
TravelerMoose Brook State Park Campground
Like Dispersed Camping... For $42
Pros: We have the p lube nearly to ourselves, thus it was very similar to dispersed camping. Nice little campground with two small ponds (One for fishing, the other for swimming). Nothing very remarkable, though.
Cons: As others have mentioned, if you want flush toilets and pay showers, you have to either stay at the more crowded, larger loop or walk across the highway to get to those amenities.
Richard P.ScoutSebago Lake Family Campground
Find a better place!
We just came back from a big family weekend there. We had 5 sites with 19 people(including children). This is by far the most rundown campground I've stayed! Only 1 bathroom facility was functioning. Of the 3 times I tried taking a shower, I only succeeded 1 time. The other 2 times(once at night and once the following morning at 6am) I only got drops coming out of the hot and cold faucets. I tried the only 2 stalls. Speaking of bathrooms...these have not been updated since the 60s-early 70s when I was camping with the same style bathroom facilities. The children's playground should be condemned!!! At least 25% of the wood is rotted. Some steps are missing from ladders. My granddaughter was swinging in the childs swing, the bottom unlatched and she fell through the bottom. If she wasn't monkey like in holding on she would have done a face plant to the ground. After looking at the swing, I found the plastic latch broken! 2 positives: the campsites are very nice! and the beach is great! Bottom line, these owners are not putting any money back into the campground and it's facilities. They are running it into the ground. I won't be coming back again!
- ccarolyn H.Scout
Hemlock Grove Campground
Great stay! :)
Wonderful stay! Clean bathrooms/showers. Woodsy and quiet. Clean campsites with water and electric. The people were super helpful and friendly! Wonderful stay, would easy stay here again :)
Jen P.TravelerTwin Mountain Campground
Lovely and peaceful
It was everything we were looking for, right on the river, quiet and clean, the section we stayed in was all tent camping so we weren’t sandwiched in between a bunch of RVs blocking the view. There was no lights, generators or loud music. Alcohol wasn’t permitted so that really cuts down on a lot of unnecessary nonsense. Pets are permitted and our dog loved it. It was very pleasant and relaxing. Can’t wait to go back.
- JJose L.Traveler
Town Hall Road Dispersed
Dispersed it is!
Stayed 8 nights with complete solitude. Bugs weren't too bad. There were plenty of dead birch trees and beech trees for firewood. Not any evergreens though. Site 16 has two campsites. I took the further one with plenty of room. Good size fire pit, but people before me left some large pieces of wood not completely put out along with lit coals.
Nikki M.ScoutCherry Mountain Road Dispersed
Dispersed camping in white mountains
We stayed in site #5. It was grassy and had a little creek running next to it that was lovely to listen to.
- Amy D.Traveler
Ellacoya State Park Campground
Pretty ok!
No major complaints. Beautiful location, easy to get to, convenient RV hookups. Goose poop everywhere so watch your step. Showers are relatively expensive. Sites are very very close together.
Guide to Tamworth
The Tamworth area sits at an elevation of around 700 feet, marking the transition between New Hampshire's Lakes Region and the White Mountains National Forest. Winter temperatures often drop below 0°F, while summer days typically range from 70-85°F, creating distinct camping seasons. Most campgrounds within a 30-minute radius operate on well-drained, glacial soil that recovers quickly after rain.
What to do
Hiking through diverse terrain: Access the Carter Ledge trail up Mt. Chocorua directly from White Ledge Campground, which serves as a convenient base for exploring the southern White Mountains. "The sites are clean. It is beautiful. We hiked the White Ledge Loop which was 4.1 miles and got amazing views," notes Sarah J.
River adventures: Tubing and swimming spots are abundant along the Swift River. Covered Bridge Campground provides easy river access. "The swift river is in walking distance... There is swimming/bathing in the Swift River but it was low (we are in a draught)," according to Jae H., highlighting the seasonal water level variations.
Wildlife observation: Dawn and dusk offer prime wildlife viewing throughout the region, especially at lakeside sites. "Waking up to the sound of the loons in the morning was wonderful," shares Michael K. from Chocorua KOA, which features waterfront sites where you can observe these distinctive birds.
Winter recreation: Unlike most campgrounds that close after fall, Dry River Campground remains open until December, allowing access to early winter hiking and snowshoeing. "For services you have water and vault toilets; no hookups. Nearest showers are down the road at Jigger Johnson campground, but not until Memorial Day," explains Jean C.
What campers like
Natural swimming areas: White Lake State Park Campground receives high marks for its sandy beach and water clarity. "The lake itself is unreal, with the mountains in the background it just feels incredibly peaceful and serene," says Angela T., who appreciates the natural setting.
Well-maintained facilities: Campers consistently mention clean bathrooms and showers as standout features at multiple campgrounds. At Dry River Campground, visitors appreciate the comprehensive facilities: "They have outhouses, bathrooms, showers, laundry, potable water and a dishwashing station all included for the nightly rate of $25 + $6.50 reservation fee," notes Skyler.
Access to hiking trails: Many campgrounds offer direct trail access without needing to drive. "There are also a lot of really nice tent sites along the water, cabins, teepees, lodges and great areas for groups to camp," mentions Erin M. about Chocorua KOA, highlighting the variety of lodging options near trails.
Pet-friendly amenities: Some campgrounds go beyond simply allowing pets. "This is an incredibly dog-friendly campground with a fun dog park, a special swimming pond just for dogs and doggie day care available," explains Erin M., demonstrating why pet owners favor certain locations.
What you should know
Reservation timing varies: Jigger Johnson Campground operates entirely on a first-come, first-served basis, while others take advance bookings. "It is first-come, first-served, so if you want a site with a path to the water it is best to arrive earlier in the day, around 1 pm when new campers are welcomed," advises Rita M.
Site privacy levels differ significantly: Some campgrounds offer secluded sites while others place campers in close proximity. "Sites are fairly standard- dirt floor with gravel packed in around the circle fire rings...All sites are wooded with plenty of trees to get a good tarp, and lots of options for hammock placement," describes Angela T. from White Lake State Park.
Noise considerations: Road noise affects some campgrounds more than others. At White Ledge Campground, "The proximity to the busy road was unfortunate. We could here cars the entire night which was a little annoying," reports Michael M., suggesting selecting sites further from highways for those seeking quiet.
Cell service limitations: Most campgrounds have limited to no connectivity. At Covered Bridge Campground, "Very spotty Verizon cell coverage and no TMobile service at all. Better coverage for both carriers near the top of the boulder loop trail," notes Jae H.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for children: Danforth Bay Camping & RV Resort provides multiple swimming options for families. "Has 2 big beautiful pools and a smaller one with a kids slide. Large campsites and well maintained," shares Shawn D., highlighting family-friendly water features.
Campsites with play areas: Look for campgrounds with designated children's areas. "There are two playgrounds for little and big kids... There were also a lot of free activities for the kids like crafts, wagon rides and games with a full schedule of events," explains Erin M. about the Chocorua KOA.
Bathroom proximity: When camping with young children, select sites near facilities. "I had a site next to the bathroom, which was very helpful and I felt confident letting my children go to the bathroom alone," notes Stephanie C. from White Lake State Park.
Quiet hours enforcement: Family campgrounds typically enforce quiet periods for children's sleep. At Waterville Campground, "quiet hours (10p-6a) are taken seriously. This does not just mean music goes off, you also have to whisper if you want to stay up and hang out around the campfire," reports Desiree M.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some waterfront sites require significant leveling equipment. At Chocorua KOA, "Most of the waterfront sites are back in, and the only level part of the site is away from the deck and water...my 5" drive on leveling blocks weren't enough and I had to put them on top of a 2x8 to level the camper out," warns Michael K.
Access road conditions: Some campgrounds have challenging approach roads. At Covered Bridge Campground, "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," cautions Norma S.
Site selection for larger rigs: Choose campgrounds that specify big-rig friendliness. "Sites are well spaced, well maintained and provide you with a picnic table and fire pit," notes Samantha C. about White Ledge Campground, though larger vehicles should check specific site dimensions before booking.
Utility connections: Verify the available hookups match your needs. At Chocorua KOA, "Our site was labeled as a 50 amp connection, but it wasn't, it was 30 amp. So double check that," advises Michael K., highlighting the importance of confirming amenities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Tamworth, NH?
What camping is available near Tamworth, NH?
According to TheDyrt.com, Tamworth, NH offers a wide range of camping options, with 307 campgrounds and RV parks near Tamworth, NH and 10 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Tamworth, NH?
Which is the most popular campground near Tamworth, NH?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Tamworth, NH is White Lake State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 25 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Tamworth, NH?
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Tamworth, NH?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 10 free dispersed camping spots near Tamworth, NH.
What parks are near Tamworth, NH?
What parks are near Tamworth, NH?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 12 parks near Tamworth, NH that allow camping, notably White Mountain National Forest and Union Village Dam.
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