Camping opportunities near Wonalancet, New Hampshire range from primitive tent sites to full-service facilities across varying elevations from 750 to 2,500 feet. The region experiences significant temperature fluctuations, with summer nights often dropping below 50°F even when daytime temperatures reach the 80s. Water levels in local rivers vary dramatically between spring runoff and late summer, affecting both swimming opportunities and ambient noise at riverside campsites.
What to do
Hiking White Ledge Loop: 4.1 miles of moderate terrain accessible directly from White Ledge Campground. "We hiked the White Ledge Loop which was 4.1 miles and got amazing views. The brooks running through are beautiful," notes Sarah J. The trailhead connects to several additional paths leading to spectacular viewpoints of the surrounding mountains.
River recreation: Swift River access paths from Jigger Johnson Campground lead to swimming holes and natural water slides. "Short hike will take you to the river from the campground. There are a lot of spots! We went on a slow day so we had it to ourselves with a few more campers," reports Rebecca A. Several spots are deep enough for swimming, and some areas feature rope swings for more adventurous visitors.
Winter camping options: Year-round access at Hancock Campground provides rare off-season opportunities. "Site #40 along the river was close to the bathroom yet had plenty of privacy from other sites. The campgrounds were well cared for and the staff was friendly," notes Heather B. Winter campers should prepare for temperatures frequently below freezing and limited services, as water systems are typically winterized.
What campers like
Campsite privacy: Well-spaced sites at Dry River Campground in Crawford Notch State Park provide quieter camping experiences. "The sites are spacious, level, and wooded, though some have no real demarcation between them. This can be good if you are with friends and reserve sites side by side," explains Jean C. Many campers appreciate the natural spacing created by forest vegetation between most sites.
Waterfront locations: Direct river access remains highly sought-after, with Covered Bridge Campground offering prime spots. "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," reports Deborah M. The Swift River provides both recreational opportunities and natural white noise that masks sounds from nearby campsites.
Family-friendly amenities: Multiple beach areas at some private campgrounds accommodate different preferences. "They have volleyball courts as well as a swim area with a dock, that I spent soon much time on," shares Michelle D. about her experiences at Danforth Bay. Designated kid-friendly swimming zones with gradually sloping entry points are particularly valued by families with young children.
What you should know
Bear precautions: Active bear populations require proper food storage throughout the region. "The campground has bear boxes on sites, which was a big plus, since we couldn't keep anything in our car," notes Lindsey M. about Hancock Campground. Many sites provide metal food storage containers, particularly at riverside tent-only locations where keeping food in vehicles isn't possible.
Seasonal insect conditions: Significant bug pressure varies by location and time of year. "Bring your bug spray, citronella candles and smoky firewood—the bugs here are no joke. But if you come prepared you can get by with minimal bites," advises Angela T. Black flies are typically worst in May and early June, while mosquitoes persist throughout summer, especially near water sources.
Toilet facilities: Variable bathroom quality across campgrounds, with Waterville Campground offering basic facilities. "The bathrooms are outhouses. No flush and not pleasant smelling. No mirrors or lights or sinks in the bathrooms," reports Desiree M. Most campgrounds use vault toilets, with only a few offering flush facilities, typically at larger, more developed locations.
Tips for camping with families
Beach selection: Sandy swimming areas with gradual entry points provide safer water play. "The lake itself is unreal, with the mountains in the background it just feels incredibly peaceful and serene," writes Angela T. about White Lake State Park. The shallow entry extends quite far from shore, making it ideal for families with young children who need wading-depth water.
Bicycle-friendly campgrounds: Paved loops at Jigger Johnson Campground accommodate kids on bikes. "The road through the campground is paved and mostly flat, making it ideal for kids to ride their bikes," shares Rita M. Bicycles also help children travel between campsites and bathrooms or water sources at larger facilities where these amenities might be some distance away.
Noise considerations: Traffic sound impacts vary significantly between campgrounds and even between sites within the same facility. "The campground borders the Kancamangus Highway on one side, and the tranquil Swift River on the other," explains Rita M. about Passaconaway Campground. Sites further from main roads generally offer quieter conditions, especially important for families with young children who go to bed early.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Limited big-rig options with some campgrounds having size restrictions. "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," warns Norma S. about Covered Bridge Campground. Many forest service campgrounds have maximum vehicle length restrictions and narrow access roads.
Hookup availability: Electric and water service primarily available at private campgrounds. "We had site M-9 and M-10," shares Michael M. about Danforth Bay, noting the "large sites with full hookups." Most national forest campgrounds offer no hookups, requiring self-contained operation or generator use during permitted hours.
Dump station locations: Limited waste disposal facilities require planning. Several reviewers noted the absence of dump stations at forest service campgrounds, with Hancock and White Lake State Park being exceptions. RVers often need to use facilities in Conway or Lincoln when staying at more primitive campgrounds in the region.
