Whether you long for the sea or head for the hills, there are plenty of camping spots for all tastes in New Hampshire's Granite State.
The Granite State is home to mountains, ponds, streams, and lakes. It borders the Atlantic Ocean, the state of Maine and the state of Massachusetts. Seasonally it never sleeps. In the winter the snow enthusiasts gather here to ski, snowmobile, skate and snowshoe. The remaining three seasons, however, find a plethora of campers seeking shelter""some for a vacation, others for a simple night or two. No matter where your camping expedition finds you in New Hampshire, you've come to a state with plenty of places to stay.
Some New Hampshire campers want to become one with the environment. They aren't interested in "civilized" dwelling, but prefer instead to live off the land and pitch their tent. Others choose more modern facilities that include electrical hookups and running water. Still more modern camping enthusiasts enjoy campgrounds with a variety of amenities, including a swimming pool, planned activities, games, and a sense of "camper's community." Regardless of your preference, the choices are abundant.
The following is a sampling of New Hampshire campsites, including contact information. They are listed in sections, beginning with areas near the Seacoast and ending in the north country of New Hampshire.
The New Hampshire seacoast is a beautiful region year round. Most campgrounds are open during the late spring, summer and fall seasons. Adjacent to beaches, fishing, nightlife and some of the best dining in the state, this region allows campers the very best of both worlds.
Campgrounds on or near the New Hampshire Seacoast:
Amazon Camp Area
105 Whitehouse Rd.
Rochester (about ½ hour from the seacoast)
(603)-332-9829
Grandview Campgrounds
51 Four Rod Rd.
Rochester
(603) 332-1263
First Crown Point Campground
44 1st Crown Point
Rochester
(603) 332-0405
Shel-Al Campground
U.S. Route 1
North Hampton (on the seacoast)
Tide Water Campground
Rt. 1, 160 Lafayette Rd.
Hampton (on the seacoast)
(603) 926-5474
When heading north on Route 16, en route to New Hampshire's White Mountain region, many quaint lake towns and villages boast wonderful campgrounds aimed at pleasing both sportsmen and families. Distant views of the mountains make this region absolutely gorgeous.
Campgrounds along Route 16 toward Mt. Washington:
Beaver Hollow Campground
Rt. 16
Ossipee
(603) 539-4800
Deer Cap Campground
Rt. 16
Ossipee
(603) 539-6030
Bear Camp River Campground
P.O. Box 104
West Ossipee
(603) 539-4898
It's clear you've reached the Mt. Washington region when you arrive in beautiful North Conway. Scenic railroad tours ferry guests up the mountain for some spectacular views. Hiking is at a premium in this region and the Appalachian Hiking Club offers many suggestions for hikers of all levels.
Mt. Washington Region campgrounds:
North Conway Pines Campground
West Side Road
North Conway
(603) 356-3305
Saco River Camping Area
Box 546T
North Conway
(603) 356-3660
Jefferson Campground
RFD 1 Box112A
Jefferson
(603) 586-4510
Green Meadow Family Campground
Rt. 16
Glen
(603) 383-6801
New Hampshire's Lakes Region is a popular summer area for swimming, boating and camping. Crystal clear, deep lakes are favorites among fresh water fishermen as well. Art festivals and antique shops bring in droves of tourists each year.
Pine Woods Campground
Moultonboro Neck Rd.
Moultonboro
(603) 253-6251
Granite State Campground
Route 106
Laconia
(603) 524-9460
Hack Ma Tack Camping Area
RR3
Laconia
(603) 366-5977
Lake Forest RV Resort
PO Box 713
Wolfeboro Falls
(603) 569-6186
Wolfeboro Campground
61 Haines Hill Road
Wolfeboro
(603) 569-9881
New Hampshire's north country (also referred to as the Great North Woods) comes alive in camping season. Frequent sightings of deer, moose and bear are common, as are views of lakes, streams, and a vast wooded valley. Mt. Aziscoos provides a glorious backdrop of rich mountain color throughout three seasons, and becomes topped with white in winter. Many campgrounds are operational year round despite the horrid cold in this part of New Hampshire. Snowmobile enthusiasts, hunters, and ice fishermen brave the weather in the harsher seasons. Families and fresh air enthusiasts enjoy it in spring, summer and fall. Beware of the mosquitoes in this region, however. An old wives tale has them hauling off campers into the dark, cold night!
Columbia Cabins
Route 3
Colebrook
(603) 237-8630
Mohawk Valley Camping Area
Route 26
Colebrook
(603) 237-5756
Umbagog Lake Campground
Route 16
Errol
(603) 482-7795
Log Haven Campground
Route 16
Errol
(603) 482-3294
Timberland Camping Area
P.O. Box 303
Gorham
(603) 466-3872
When camping in New Hampshire be sure to bring a variety of clothing options, as the weather can change abruptly and significant dips in temperature are likely from day to night. Be sure to pack sunscreen and insect repellent as well. And prior to camping in New Hampshire contact the Fish and Game Department for a list of local businesses selling fishing licenses. It is unlawful for anyone over the age of 16 to fish without one.
So what are you waiting for? Load up the tent or pack up the RV and get yourself pointed in the right direction""north, and camping in New Hampshire!
