Best Camping in New Hampshire

When you’re camping in New Hampshire you don’t have to choose between going on a hardcore hike or relaxing in your hammock on a quiet lakeshore. With hundreds of campsites across the state—and with mountains and lakes close to so many of them—you can easily access the best of both worlds. Lake Winnipesaukee is by far the largest and best-known body of freshwater in the Granite State, but New Hampshire is dotted with bodies of water of all sizes, from the swimming holes and rushing rivers of the mountains, to the ponds and lakes lined with classic cottages in the aptly named Lakes Region.

Fortunately for all of us, mountains are just as plentiful. While Mount Washington, in the heart of the White Mountain National Forest, has the most name recognition in the state (and claims to have the worst weather in the world), it’s not even the only notable peak to bag in the Presidential Range. Adams, Jefferson, Monroe, Madison, Pierce, Eisenhower, and Jackson mountains can all be ticked off your list of New Hampshire’s 48 4,000-footers. And the White Mountains aren’t the only game in town either. Go camping at Monadnock State Park and do any number of hikes in the area, including the ever-popular Mount Monadnock, of course. Mount Monadnock’s isolated peak provides fantastic views and is one of the most frequently hiked mountains in the world.

Spend a quiet backcountry camping in New Hampshire night under a tarp, or bring beers and s’mores around the campfire at a popular state park campground like Pawtuckaway, Bear Brook, or White Lake. Consider a weekend hut trip when camping in New Hampshire, with stays at one or more of the eight huts maintained by the Appalachian Mountain Club or parking your RV and basecamping at Lafayette Campground while you tackle some of New England’s best dayhikes, like the Tuckerman-Lion Head loop on Mount Washington or the Lincoln-Lafayette loop in Franconia Notch.

The biggest challenge to camping in New Hampshire? Not having enough time to enjoy everything the Granite State has to offer.

Best Camping Sites in New Hampshire (287)

    Camper-submitted photo from Pawtuckaway State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pawtuckaway State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pawtuckaway State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pawtuckaway State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pawtuckaway State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pawtuckaway State Park Campground

    1.

    Pawtuckaway State Park Campground

    43 Reviews
    186 Photos
    365 Saves
    Raymond, New Hampshire

    Pawtuckaway State Park Campground lines the shore of beautiful Pawtuckaway Lake. The 192 sites are wooded and many provide views of the lake. Each campsite has an open fire ring, picnic table, flat areas for a tent, and a parking space. The bathhouses are equipped with running water, flush toilets, and 24 hour showers. There are no hook-ups at any of the campsites. The park also has a camp store where canoe and kayak rentals are available, as well as a public canoe and kayak launch. Five cabins are available; each sleeps six people, has electricity, and includes a fire ring and picnic table. Pets are not allowed in the campground or beach area of the park.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $25 - $30 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Dry River — Crawford Notch State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dry River — Crawford Notch State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dry River — Crawford Notch State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dry River — Crawford Notch State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dry River — Crawford Notch State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dry River — Crawford Notch State Park

    2.

    Dry River — Crawford Notch State Park

    31 Reviews
    108 Photos
    110 Saves
    Bartlett, New Hampshire

    Welcome to Dry River Campground in Crawford Notch State Park! Nestled in the heart of New Hampshire's White Mountain National Forest, this spot is a gem for anyone looking to immerse themselves in nature. The campground is open from May 19 to December 2, offering a perfect basecamp for hiking enthusiasts and those looking to explore the surrounding wilderness.

    The campground itself is known for its privacy and tranquility. With a mix of tent and RV sites, you'll find plenty of options to suit your camping style. Some sites even come with platforms, making it easier to set up your tent, especially if the ground is a bit uneven. The rangers here are friendly and helpful, but they mostly leave you to enjoy your stay in peace.

    Amenities include hot showers, toilets, and drinking water, which are always a welcome sight after a long day on the trails. Firewood is available for purchase, so you can enjoy a cozy campfire under the stars. Pets are allowed, so feel free to bring your furry friends along for the adventure.

    Visitors have mentioned that the campground is conveniently located near various hiking trails and Mount Washington. You can hear the soothing sounds of the Dry River at night, and the views of Frankenstein Cliffs are simply breathtaking. The campground is also big rig friendly, making it accessible for larger RVs.

    Whether you're here for a quick overnight stay or an extended camping trip, Dry River Campground offers a serene and scenic escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. So pack your gear, reserve your spot, and get ready to enjoy the natural beauty of Crawford Notch State Park!

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $25 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Lafayette Place Campground — Franconia Notch State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lafayette Place Campground — Franconia Notch State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lafayette Place Campground — Franconia Notch State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lafayette Place Campground — Franconia Notch State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lafayette Place Campground — Franconia Notch State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lafayette Place Campground — Franconia Notch State Park

    3.

    Lafayette Place Campground — Franconia Notch State Park

    33 Reviews
    205 Photos
    301 Saves
    Lincoln, New Hampshire

    In the heart of Franconia Notch State Park, Lafayette Place Campground is the camping and hiking hub for the park. It provides a great base from which to enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, swimming, and many attractions in the White Mountains. Information about hiking trails, safety, and the natural and cultural history of the park is available at the cabin near the campground entrance. A lodge houses a registration desk and offers a selection of camping supplies. Each campsite is wooded and has a picnic table, car parking, and an open fireplace. There are coin-operated showers and a camp store. Lafayette Campground provides 97 wooded tent sites - 88 are by reservation only, 1 is for youth group reservations, and 7 are for first-come/first-served campers. Self-service/self-pay camping with limited staffing and facilities is available during the off-season.

    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $25 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Lost River Valley Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lost River Valley Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lost River Valley Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lost River Valley Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lost River Valley Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lost River Valley Campground

    4.

    Lost River Valley Campground

    28 Reviews
    62 Photos
    37 Saves
    North Woodstock, New Hampshire

    Surrounded on three sides by National Forest and nestled between the banks of Lost River and Walker Brook, our well-maintained and wooded sites offer the utmost in tranquility while remaining so close to many of the region’s most popular attractions. Located at the site of a turn-of-the-century lumber mill, our authentic water wheel continues to churn out history as it beckons vacationers from near and afar. Campers are welcome on a day-to-day basis, when space is available. Reservations are accepted for stays of 1 night or longer between May 1st and June 1st and after Labor Day. This does not include holidays or special events weekends. From June 2nd through Labor Day, it is a 3-night minimum; with a 3-night deposit required. Please navigate our site to learn more about all that we have to offer for your family’s next New Hampshire camping vacation. We hope that you can stay with us sometime this season!

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $62 - $209 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Hancock Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hancock Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hancock Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hancock Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hancock Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hancock Campground

    5.

    Hancock Campground

    28 Reviews
    143 Photos
    585 Saves
    Lincoln, New Hampshire

    ___Located at the western end of the scenic Kancamagus Highway, this campground serves as an excellent place to start your White Mountain adventure. The nearby Lincoln Woods Visitor Center is the jumping off point for numerous hiking trails leading into the Pemigewasset Wilderness; the Kancamagus Highway is an extremely popular scenic byway with numerous hiking, picnic, and swimming spots; and the town of Lincoln offers many amenities.__Hancock Campground has 56 wooded sites.

    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Equestrian
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Brook State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Brook State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Brook State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Brook State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Brook State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Brook State Park Campground

    6.

    Bear Brook State Park Campground

    26 Reviews
    158 Photos
    192 Saves
    Candia, New Hampshire

    Welcome to Bear Brook State Park Campground, nestled deep in the woods near Allenstown, NH. This place is a gem for those who crave a bit of wilderness without straying too far from civilization. The campground is open from early May to late October, offering a perfect escape during the warmer months.

    The sites here are spacious, giving you plenty of room to spread out and enjoy some privacy. You won't feel like you're on top of your neighbors, which is a big plus. The setting is a beautiful mix of maple and conifer forests, with some sites offering views of a nearby pond. It's peaceful and quiet, with no road noise to disturb your stay.

    One of the standout features is the availability of clean flush toilets and individual shower rooms. You won't have to rough it too much here. There are also potable water spigots scattered throughout the campground, so staying hydrated is a breeze. If you need to dump your tanks, there's a sanitary dump station available.

    For those who like to stay connected, be aware that cell service can be spotty. AT&T users might get 1 to 2 bars, but Verizon users might be out of luck. However, the campground store is well-stocked with essentials like ice and firewood, and the staff are friendly and helpful.

    Activities abound with hiking and mountain biking trails right from the campground. The nearby pond is perfect for a bit of kayaking or canoeing. If you're into fishing, bring your gear and enjoy some quiet time by the water.

    Pets are welcome, so feel free to bring your furry friends along. Just remember to keep them on a leash and clean up after them. All in all, Bear Brook State Park Campground offers a great mix of nature, comfort, and activities to make your stay memorable.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $25 - $40 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Moose Brook State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Moose Brook State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Moose Brook State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Moose Brook State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Moose Brook State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Moose Brook State Park Campground

    7.

    Moose Brook State Park Campground

    22 Reviews
    62 Photos
    138 Saves
    Gorham, New Hampshire

    Welcome to Moose Brook State Park Campground, nestled near Gorham, NH. This spot is a gem for those looking to escape into nature without straying too far from town conveniences. The campground operates from May 5 to November 4, offering a serene retreat during the warmer months.

    Moose Brook is a haven for tent campers, but it also accommodates RVs and even offers some glamping options. Just a heads-up, there are no electric or sewer hookups, but don't let that deter you. Many visitors bring generators and manage just fine. The sites are surrounded by trees, providing a peaceful and private atmosphere.

    One of the standout features here is the swimming hole, fed by fresh mountain water. It's a bit chilly, but incredibly refreshing on a hot day. The campground also boasts clean bathrooms and coin-operated showers, which many campers have praised for their cleanliness. There's a handy dishwashing station too, making camp chores a breeze.

    If you're into mountain biking, you're in luck. The trails around Moose Brook are top-notch, thanks to the efforts of the Coos Cycling Club and the State Parks system. Hiking enthusiasts will also find plenty of trails nearby, including those leading to the stunning White Mountains.

    For those who like a bit of convenience, the camp store is well-stocked and the staff are known for their friendliness. Firewood is available for purchase, so you can enjoy a cozy campfire under the stars.

    Whether you're here for the biking, hiking, or just to relax in a beautiful setting, Moose Brook State Park Campground has something to offer. It's a great spot for families, couples, or solo adventurers looking to unwind and connect with nature.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    Camper-submitted photo from White Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from White Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from White Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from White Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from White Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from White Lake State Park Campground

    8.

    White Lake State Park Campground

    22 Reviews
    441 Photos
    235 Saves
    West Ossipee, New Hampshire

    White Lake campground is located on a National Natural Landmark of 72 acre Pitch Pine Stand, surrounding a glacier formed lake. North Conway is 20 miles north of the campground with many tourist attractions.

    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $25 - $75 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Crawford Notch Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Crawford Notch Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Crawford Notch Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Crawford Notch Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Crawford Notch Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Crawford Notch Campground

    9.

    Crawford Notch Campground

    23 Reviews
    66 Photos
    305 Saves
    Bartlett, New Hampshire

    Crawford Notch Campground is a family-owned and operated campground nestled in the heart of the White Mountains of New Hampshire. Scenic Crawford Notch is well known for its awe-inspiring views, majestic mountains, unspoiled wilderness, and miles of hiking trails. Our wooded setting along the banks of the Saco River features secluded campsites and log cabins.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $25 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Greenfield State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Greenfield State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Greenfield State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Greenfield State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Greenfield State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Greenfield State Park Campground

    10.

    Greenfield State Park Campground

    19 Reviews
    41 Photos
    91 Saves
    Bennington, New Hampshire

    Welcome to Greenfield State Park Campground, nestled in the charming town of Greenfield, NH. This spot is a favorite for many, and it's easy to see why. The campground operates from May 22 to October 12, offering a perfect escape during the warmer months.

    One of the standout features here is the spacious and private campsites. Visitors often rave about the large, wooded sites that provide a sense of seclusion and tranquility. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking an RV, you'll find plenty of room to spread out and enjoy the natural surroundings.

    For those who love a good campfire, you'll be pleased to know that fires are allowed, and firewood is available for purchase on-site. There's also a handy little store at the ranger office stocked with basic supplies, gifts, and even ice cream. And if you're bringing along your furry friend, pets are welcome too.

    The campground boasts clean and well-maintained facilities, including showers and toilets. Showers are free and offer the luxury of adjustable temperatures without the hassle of push buttons. Water spigots are conveniently located throughout the campground, and there's a sanitary dump station for RVs.

    Nature lovers will appreciate the hiking trails that weave through the park, though it's wise to keep an eye out for ticks. The lake is another highlight, perfect for a refreshing swim or a peaceful paddle. The sunsets over the water are simply stunning, making it a great spot for kayaking or just relaxing by the shore.

    Greenfield State Park Campground is a fantastic place to unwind, explore, and reconnect with nature. Whether you're here for a night or a week, you're sure to leave with some great memories. Just remember to keep it clean and respect the quiet hours, and you'll have a wonderful stay.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
Showing results 1-10 of 287 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping in New Hampshire

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Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available in New Hampshire?

According to TheDyrt.com, New Hampshire offers a wide range of camping options, with 287 campgrounds and RV parks in New Hampshire and 8 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground in New Hampshire?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground in New Hampshire is Pawtuckaway State Park Campground with a 4-star rating from 43 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping in New Hampshire?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 8 free dispersed camping spots in New Hampshire.

What are the best parks in New Hampshire?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 parks in New Hampshire that allow camping, notably White Mountain National Forest and Edward MacDowell Lake.