Where to Go Camping in New Hampshire

Written by
Michelle Valenti
The Canada border at the north end, the Atlantic Ocean at the southeast tip and the White Mountains in between make this small state a big draw. Whether you want color in the fall or waterfalls in the spring, New Hampshire camping doesn't disappoint. To get the full spectrum of what the Granite State offers, put these eight campgrounds on your must-see list.
Lake Francis State Park
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Start your trip in the remote Great North Woods near the border of Canada. The 2,000-acre lake is great for boaters and anglers and the surrounding area offers plenty of opportunity for hunters. While the campground is only open in the summer, the park is open year-round. Nordic skiing is a popular activity in the winter.
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Umbagog Lake State Park
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Also in the Great North Woods, Umbagog Lake State Park is another scenic New Hampshire camping spot. While the park has a standard campground, you'll want to reserve one of the 34 remote sites that are only accessible by boat. Don't worry; you don't need to bring your own transportation. Kayaks, canoes and rowboats are available at the campground to help you get across the lake. The park is also an excellent place for fishing.
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Dolly Copp
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Make your way down to White Mountain National Forest and sleep in the shadow of Mt. Washington, the tallest peak in the northeastern U.S. From here you can access some of the best hiking in the region including trails in the Presidential and Carter-Moriah ranges. Other popular activities include rock climbing and mountain biking.
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Lafayette Campground
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As the main campground at Franconia Notch State Park, this is the gateway to activities within the park. While you're there be sure to check out Flume Gorge and Echo Lake, and take a drive on the scenic Kancamagus Highway.

Driving an RV? Head to the Cannon Mountain RV Park for one of the seven sites that are open year-round.
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Sunapee State Park
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Head to Mt. Sunapee Resort for skiing in the winter, and check out Mt. Sunapee State Beach for a host of summertime activities. Bottom line: this region offers year-round fun for the family. The campsites at the park are all equipped with platforms and lean-tos.
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Ellacoya State Park
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The next stop on your tour of New Hampshire camping destinations is Ellacoya State Park on the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee. This scenic beach spot is perfect for a weekend getaway with the family. From here you can leave the beach and head into the mountains. You're within driving distance to both Mount Major and Belknap Mountain State Forests.

If you plan to stay overnight at the Ellacoya campground, you'll need to be in an RV or trailer as there are no tent sites available.
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Monadnock State Park
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At the southern end of the state, you'll find Pisgah and Monadnock State Parks, both of which offer year-round activities. Resources are limited in the winter so come prepared. In the summer, Monadnock is an ideal destination for family campers.
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Hampton Beach State Park
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Top off your New Hampshire camping trip with a stop at the Atlantic Coast. This RV-only campground offers a front row seat to sandy beaches, fishing, whale watching and more.
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