White Lake State Park in Tamworth sits at 490 feet elevation with Mount Chocorua's distinct peak visible from most campsites. The area's unique glacial geology created crystal-clear lakes throughout the region, with camping options ranging from rustic backcountry sites to yurt camping near Tamworth's town center. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-80°F, perfect for exploring the numerous hiking trails that connect the region's lakes and mountains.
What to do
River exploration: Covered Bridge Campground offers excellent access to both the Swift and Smith Rivers for swimming and fishing. "It was great to wade in the river by the entrance after hiking and cool my feet off. It made a good home base for exploring," notes camper Deborah M. The campground connects directly to the Boulder Loop Trail for hiking.
Lakeside swimming: White Lake State Park provides multiple swimming options with a sandy beach area. "The lake itself is unreal, with the mountains in the background it just feels incredibly peaceful and serene," writes Angela T. The park maintains designated swimming areas with lifeguards during peak season.
Mountain hikes: Trails around Tamworth range from easy walks to challenging summit climbs. "We hopped on [Boulder Loop Trail] straight through the woods from our campsite," reports Casey L. about accessing trails directly from Covered Bridge Campground. Most trails in the area are well-marked with moderate elevation gains suitable for families.
What campers like
Natural water features: White Lake State Park receives consistent praise for its clear lake. "The lake itself is unreal, with the mountains in the background it just feels incredibly peaceful and serene," reports Angela T. The park maintains a swimming beach with shallow entry areas for children.
Private sites: Many campgrounds in the region provide good site separation. "The sites were spacious and felt semi private," writes STephanie C. about White Lake State Park. Most sites include standard fire rings and picnic tables.
Location convenience: Eastern Slope Camping Area offers strategic positioning. "Great location with easy ride to all North Conway attractions," mentions Katelyn D. The campground provides direct Saco River access with "a great big beach right on the Saco River that was excellent!"
What you should know
Bear activity: Black bears are common throughout the region. At Waterville Campground, one camper reported: "The first day I got there at around 5:30 I was sitting in my hammock reading when a black bear cub strolled through my campsite." Store food properly in secure containers.
Site privacy varies: Campgrounds differ significantly in site spacing. At White Lake State Park, "sites were fairly standard- dirt floor with gravel packed in around the circle fire rings," notes Angela T., while another camper observed sites are "way too close together, not much privacy."
Reservation timing: Book well ahead for summer weekends, especially for waterfront sites. Most campgrounds in the region open from Memorial Day through mid-October, with peak season running July-August.
Tips for camping with families
Dog-friendly options: Long Island Bridge Campground welcomes pets with designated pet-friendly areas. "Campground is right on the lake, very clean, pet friendly, employees are great," writes Austin M. The campground maintains a pet policy requiring leashes in common areas.
Yurt camping: For families seeking alternative accommodations, yurt camping near Tamworth, New Hampshire provides solid structures with many comforts of home. These round tent structures typically include beds, electricity, and protection from weather.
Playground access: Jellystone Park™ Glen Ellis offers extensive kid-friendly amenities. "Pool, baseball diamond, arcade, kids movies, playground. Plenty of shopping and restaurants in Conway," notes Jimmy M. The campground also runs scheduled activities for children throughout summer months.
Tips from RVers
Waterfront access: Chocorua KOA provides premium waterfront RV sites with views. "Our site 38 was very nice, it's pretty spacious. The deck had furniture on it and a grill," reports Michael K. However, he notes that leveling was challenging: "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."
Hookup options: Most private campgrounds around Tamworth offer full hookups, while state parks typically provide more primitive options. At Eastern Slope, "Each site has a wood canopy, picnic bench, electrical, water spigot & designated fire pit," writes Samme C.
Size restrictions: Several campgrounds have limited access for larger RVs. White Ledge Campground warns that "designated tent sites are not suitable for RVs/trailers because the site may require a short walk or steps." Check campground maps and confirm access for units over 30 feet.
