Primitive camping options exist throughout Vermont's Northeast Kingdom and the White Mountains of New Hampshire near Guildhall. Located at the intersection of the Connecticut River and Paul Stream, Guildhall sits at approximately 870 feet elevation with quick access to both forest and river camping. Many campgrounds in the region maintain limited or no cell service, adding to the remote wilderness experience.
What to do
Wildlife viewing at dawn and dusk: Mollidgewock State Park Campground in Errol, NH offers exceptional moose watching opportunities. "Mollidgewock State Park, overlooking the Androscoggin River, is embedded in the beautiful and tranquil scenery that makes up what I would call, the moose capital of NH. My visit proved incredible as I got to experience my very first moose sighting!" shared Rachel P.
Mountain biking on maintained trails: Moose Brook State Park Campground offers extensive biking terrain. "There are numerous lookouts and trails to explore along Rte 16 and 26-from the Moose Caves in Grafton State Park, the Appalachian Trail, Diamond Peaks Trail, and various river paths, you won't be bored! The local Coos Cycling Club maintains the trails and is constantly improving and creating more terrain," notes Sarah C.
Fishing right from your campsite: Sites along the river at various campgrounds provide fishing access without leaving your camp. "I spent three days camped by the river with my little 12 ft pack boat. Caught about a dozen small rainbows anchored at the head of the rapids," reports Gre C. about his experience at Mollidgewock.
What campers like
Peace and quiet: Mountain Lake Camping Resort in Lancaster, NH enforces quiet hours at 10:30 pm. "If you're looking for a safe, family friendly, quiet campground this is it. Strict quiet hours at 1030 make it very quiet in the evening with no worry of loud parties keeping you up," according to Josh S.
Remote locations away from crowds: While primitive in amenities, the isolation appeals to many visitors. "It's hard sometime to get away from all the people in Vermont but this park is far enough out of the way where you can avoid a majority of the summer tourist. I was able to take advantage of this and go on a relaxing hike my girlfriend and our dog," says Nick P. about Maidstone State Park.
Clear night skies: The minimal light pollution creates excellent stargazing opportunities. "What you make up for in sparsely wooded sites, is an expansive star-studded sky. Combined with the music of the nearby rapids and the backdrop of Errol's alluring wilderness, you'll be lulled into a deep relaxation," describes Rachel P. about Mollidgewock State Park.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Most campgrounds in the area have poor or no cell reception. "No cellular with either Verizon or AT&T but there is limited WiFi at check in building," notes Ted D. about Maidstone State Park.
Remote from amenities and supplies: Jefferson Campground provides a small store, but larger supplies require travel. "Small store on site with necessities and fire wood. Follow their map to pull in correctly," advises John L., who adds that the campground is "a bit off the beaten path of White Mountain tourist areas."
Primitive facilities at some locations: Several campgrounds offer basic amenities. "This is primitive camping, no water, no electrical, but it does have pit toilets and boat rentals and a day use area," explains Miccal M. about Mollidgewock State Park, while Kate S. notes that Maidstone is "very remote. Nearest town about 45 minutes away."
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for kids: Percy Lodge and Campground provides water access and fishing opportunities. "Best place in the area hands down. Owners are the nicest people very clean and plenty of room for outside activities," states Jeff J.
Campgrounds with recreation options: Mountain Lake offers organized children's activities. "Pool with water slides for kids, Kayaks, paddle boats, canoes, playground with slides and a pirate ship," reports Josh S.
Visit in late summer: Early summer brings more insects and potential wet conditions. "Basic well spaced campsites. Flush toilets. No cell service. Allows dogs and cats. Dirt road to campground, friendly staff," reports Kaelin P. about Maidstone State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Many campgrounds have uneven terrain. "Sites are 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," explains Jean C. about Living Water Campground.
Road access challenges: Some campgrounds require navigation on dirt roads. "The access road into the park is a well-maintained dirt road and about 5 miles long. Look for the bears, and other cutouts creatures in the clearings on the way in," advises Miccal M. about Maidstone State Park.
Dump station locations: Not all campgrounds offer full RV services. "We had an RV site with full hookups and the site had easy access to back in and fairly level. Sites are semi private and they did well blocking off other sites with trees," mentions Jonathan B. about Rogers Campground.