Twin Mountain sits at the junction of Routes 3 and 302 in New Hampshire's White Mountains, serving as a gateway to both Crawford and Franconia Notches at approximately 1,400 feet elevation. The area experiences significant seasonal temperature variations, with summer highs averaging 75-85°F and winter temperatures frequently dropping below freezing. Campsites near Twin Mountain typically open from May through October, though several locations offer year-round accommodations.
What to Do
Hike the Zealand Trail system: The Zealand Trail offers a relatively flat 2.5-mile hike to Zealand Falls, making it accessible for most ability levels. "This state park has well maintained campsites and the group sites are in a different location, on the opposite side of the road, from the main campground which is nice. Sites have fire rings, picnic tables and nice areas to pitch tents," notes a visitor to Moose Brook State Park Campground.
Explore backcountry tent platforms: For experienced hikers seeking remote camping, several shelters provide designated camping areas within White Mountain National Forest. "Amazing views from some of the platforms, easy access to water, friendly park managers. Used this as our midway point for a 2-day pemi loop before our friends wedding," reports a camper at Guyot Shelter.
Visit local attractions: Several family-friendly attractions operate within a short drive from Twin Mountain campgrounds. "Centrally located to Santa's Village, the Cog Railway, the Flume Gorge and Basin. Can walk to a general store down the street," shares a visitor to Ammonoosuc Campground.
What Campers Like
River access: Multiple campgrounds feature riverside sites with varying degrees of access. "Large, grassy riverside sites but the traffic will keep you awake. This is a roadside campground with several large, grassy sites that wasn't my first choice, but it was late at night and my other option hadn't panned out," explains a camper at Zealand Campground.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained restrooms and shower facilities rank high on visitor priorities. "The bathhouse is clean, well-lit, and heated (a treat on those cold autumn mornings). There's also a laundry room with 4 washers and dryers if you need to clean up or dry out after a rough day on the trails," notes a visitor to Ammonoosuc Campground.
Wooded privacy: Many sites offer natural separation between campsites. "Sites are generally level with easy access. You do need to call to make reservations, which in this day and age drives me crazy. If you have more than one vehicle, the second one needs to park in a separate lot and there is a daily fee," reports a camper at Twin Mountain Campground.
What You Should Know
Reservation systems vary: While some campgrounds offer online booking, others require phone calls. "Small campground. Kind of expensive for how close the sites are. I think we paid +$40 for one night. It's very nice to be right on the river which is why we chose this campground online," notes a visitor to Twin Mountain Campground.
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds operate from mid-May through mid-October, with limited winter options. "This is one of the rare New Hampshire campgrounds that is open year round. For years I drove by this campground deterred by the run-down, deserted red building next door that is NOT associated with the campground," explains a visitor to Ammonoosuc Campground.
Road noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience traffic noise due to proximity to main roads. "It is located right beside US302 and you'll hear vehicles and see their lights driving by all night. Zealand Rd, which takes you to the 2 Sugarloaf campgrounds as well as the Zealand Trailhead, cross the Ammonoosuc River here," cautions a visitor to Zealand Campground.
Tips for Camping with Families
Look for dedicated play areas: Several campgrounds feature playgrounds and recreational facilities. "Nice, family friendly, quiet campground. This place is a bit off the beaten path of White Mountain tourist areas but is still within easy drive to all the major attractions," shares a visitor to Jefferson Campground.
Consider designated quiet hours: Campgrounds enforce varying noise restrictions. "The site was nice, very close to the bathhouse, which was a good thing with young children. Bathrooms and showers were clean, and water was nice and hot," notes a camper at Ammonoosuc Campground.
Check water recreation options: Swimming areas provide cooling relief during summer months. "Pool had many visitors, very family friendly. Lots of kids over the weekend, again, family friendly. Wash and Dry were only $1 each!" reports a visitor to Jefferson Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site sizing varies significantly: Check campground maps before booking to ensure adequate space. "We stayed on campsite 3, which was right by the babbling brook. You can fall asleep to the sound of the rushing water! Highly recommend!" shares a camper at Zealand Campground.
Hookup availability differs by site: Not all riverside or premium view sites offer full hookups. "Upon first arrival we discovered that the sites are very tight and cramped. Unfortunately, everyone is on top of everyone else," notes a visitor to Israel River Campground.
Leveling challenges: Some sites require significant leveling equipment. "Stay in a 45' motorhome for a couple nights. Going up to mt Washington to ride the cog rail," reports an RVer at Jefferson Campground.
