New Hampshire (NH) is known for picturesque landscapes, unrivaled excitement, and never-ending adventures. It is nothing less than a piece of heaven on earth. Whether looking for a seasonal campground NH on the lakeside or beneath the state’s beautiful mountains, you will get what you want.
Last spring, I went to New Hampshire and was greeted by some of the most mesmerizing scenes I have ever seen. Everything was waking up from a long winter nap. The mountains were shedding their snow coats, the trails were coming alive with blooming flowers, and the air was filled with the scent of new growth. However, spring awakening was just a glimpse of what this place offers.
The best seasonal campgrounds NH attract visitors to the state across the year. What makes seasonal campgrounds special is their unique ability to take full advantage of different seasons. They give visitors the chance to fully experience the unique charm of each season in New Hampshire throughout the year.
Whether you are looking for a family-friendly location with fun and activities or a secluded and private spot for a romantic getaway, New Hampshire has it all. I am here to introduce you to some of the best seasonal campgrounds in the state. I will also answer some of the most frequently asked questions about seasonal campsites available in NH, so be sure to read till the end.
Seasonal Campgrounds NH: Top Seasonal Grounds To Visit
Having traveled extensively across New Hampshire in my several camping escapades, I have experienced many of the seasonal campgrounds in the state myself. I used trusted sources like TripAdvisor and thoroughly analyzed the amenities, costs, and availability of the campgrounds I have not yet visited. I have tried to curate a list that accurately encapsulates what makes each campground unique.
1. Lost River Valley Campground
Lost River Valley Campground is a fun-packed, family-friendly facility that offers many activities, including hiking, swimming, fishing, and picnicking. It is the perfect location for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Surrounded by the lush greenery of the federally protected White Mountain National Forest, Lost River Valley Campground leaves first-time visitors in awe of its natural splendor and picturesque landscape.
- Location: White Mountain National Forest
- Accessibility: Some sites are accessible to people with disabilities.
- Amenities: Flush toilets, showers, drinking water, picnic tables, fire rings, dump station, swimming pool, hiking trails, playground.
Traveler’s Eye: “HANDS DOWN THE BEST Campground for the whole family. From the staff to the owners, the moment you check in, you feel like you’re part of the family!!” – Jessica M.
2. Dolly Copp Campground
This secluded seasonal campground offers stunning views of Mount Washington and the Presidential Range and is popular among hiking and fishing enthusiasts. Hiking here in the fresh mountain air is a highly refreshing experience. It has trails that suit every style; whether you are looking for a gentle morning stroll or you need an arduous ascent that will test your resolve, Dolly Copp Campground has it all.
- Location: White Mountain National Forest
- Amenities: Flush toilets, showers, drinking water, picnic tables, fire rings, dump station, hiking trail, swimming pond.
- Cost: Standards cost $27 per night, while hookup sites cost an extra $13.
- Accessibility: Some sites are accessible to people with disabilities.
Traveler’s Eye: “This is an impeccably maintained campground with a park-like setting. The staff is super nice and helpful.” – Lostagain
3. Crawford Notch State Park Campground
This family-friendly seasonal campground offers stunning views of the Saco River and is perfect for nature enthusiasts. It is a lively place during the spring and summer seasons. However, fall is the most beautiful time in Crawford Notch State Park Campground when the stunning fall foliage fills everything with color. Crawford Notch State Park Campground also offers various activities like hiking, swimming, water rafting, leaf peeping, and fishing.
- Location: Hart’s Location
- Amenities: Flush toilets, showers, drinking water, picnic tables, fire rings, dump station, swimming pool, hiking trails.
- Accessibility: Some sites are accessible to people with disabilities.
Traveler’s Eye: “Beautiful campground with fresh fall air, a trickle in the stream, and leaves turning colors. The sites are all nice.” – Kathy L
4. Franconia Notch State Park Campground
Franconia Notch State Park Campground offers the perfect combination of adventure and relaxation. With various outdoor pursuits like hiking, swimming, and fishing, this campground is always filled with activities. On the other hand, if you are looking for a relaxing experience, you have leisure activities like picnicking and stargazing.
- Location: Franconia Notch State Park
- Cost: $25/night during off-season and $40/night during peak season.
- Amenities: Flush toilets, showers, drinking water, picnic tables, fire rings, dump station, swimming pool, hiking trails.
Traveler’s Eye: “A lovely state park. It was quiet when we were here – very few campers. I rate it high for natural beauty and clean restrooms.” – TravelerRog.
5. Zealand Campground
Zealand Campground is perfect if you want a peaceful and relaxing camping experience. This secluded location is nestled between dense forests and offers an intimate connection with nature. There is also a swimming pond, which makes the entire experience even more tranquil and relaxing.
- Location: White Mountain National Forest
- Cost: $22 per night.
- Amenities: Flush toilets, showers, drinking water, picnic tables, fire rings, dump station, hiking trail, swimming pond.
Traveler’s Eye: “This campground is awesome and so close to many white mountain hikes, views, etc. It does get pretty cold here at night, though!” – Madison G.
6. Cardigan State Park Campground
Situated on the south-facing slope of Mount Cardigan, Cardigan State Park Campground offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Its unique charm lies in its tranquil and inviting atmosphere. It also boasts several scenic trails, but nothing matches the splendor of Mount Cardigan Trail, which leads to the mountain’s summit. It is a relatively tricky trail, but once you see the panoramic view from the top, the hike becomes worth it.
- Location: White Mountains National Forest.
- Amenities: Flush toilets, showers, drinking water, picnic tables, fire rings, dump station, hiking trail, swimming pool, and playground.
Traveler’s Eye: “Great place for a family hike in the summer. Be very careful out in the winter. The mountains in NH can be deadly in the winter if you are unprepared.” – Bob Stone.
7. Silver Lake Campground And Cabins
Situated along the shores of Silver Lake, Silver Lake Campground offers an idyllic atmosphere, making it perfect for family trips and romantic getaways. It also features unique cabins with hot tubs and fireplaces. Moreover, the proximity to Belmont means you get access to local shops, eateries, and restaurants.
- Location: White Mountains National Forest.
- Cost: Full hookup sites start at $55/night
- Activities: Hiking, fishing, and boating
- Amenities: Flush toilets, showers, cabins, campsites, drinking water, picnic tables, fire rings, dump station, hiking trail, swimming pool, and playground.
Traveler’s Eye: “Clean facilities, well-maintained grounds, friendly and helpful staff. I would recommend this place to any camper.” – Anthony Works.
8. Meadowbrook Campground
Situated along the Connecticut River, Meadowbrook Campground is a family-friendly facility that offers many activities, including swimming, fishing, boating, hiking, and picnicking. It is also surrounded by dense forest, which gives it a secluded and remote vibe and also creates wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Location: Sandwich, New Hampshire
- Amenities: Flush toilets, showers, drinking water, picnic tables, fire rings, dump station, swimming pool, playground, and basketball court
Traveler’s Eye: “Great place to camp. The showers and restrooms are clean and well-maintained. There are also very nice breweries outside the campground.”- Ranjitha Raghu.
Understanding Seasonal Campgrounds
Seasonal campgrounds are particularly campgrounds tailored for specific seasons and attractions. Unlike regular campgrounds that open year-round, seasonal campgrounds open for a limited time of the year, usually from spring to fall. Below, I present some things you should be aware of regarding seasonal campgrounds in New Hampshire.
Types of Seasonal Campgrounds Available in New Hampshire
New Hampshire has various seasonal campgrounds catering to various interests and needs. If you are a summer person, there are plenty of campgrounds near lakes and ponds offering a variety of water activities like swimming, boating, and fishing.
On the other hand, if you are a nature lover, you can find plenty of campgrounds nestled between the stunning New Hampshire mountains. They offer picturesque views of snow-covered mountains in winter and lush forests in summer.
Comparison Between Seasonal And Regular Campgrounds
Both seasonal and regular campgrounds cater to different types of campers. Seasonal campgrounds utilize the unique features of different seasons and offer different amenities and activities accordingly.
On the other hand, regular campgrounds offer a consistent set of amenities and activities throughout the year. Moreover, seasonal campgrounds may have limited availability during particular seasons, while regular campgrounds are available year-round, making them suitable for more spontaneous trips.
Reserving Seasonal Campsites in NH
Seasonal campsites get filled up quickly during peak season, and you will need a timely reservation to secure a spot. New Hampshire has 23 state park campgrounds that offer a wide range of camping experiences, including primitive camping, cabin and yurt rentals, and full-service RV hookups.
There are two ways to make a reservation: online and by phone. You can use several online platforms like individual campgrounds, travel websites, and reservation agencies. NHstateparks.org is one of the most popular websites for campground reservations in New Hampshire.
Practical Tips For Seasonal Camping In NH
If you are new to seasonal camping, you might face unique challenges. In the table below, I present some practical ways to deal with some of these challenges so you can make your trip as comfortable as possible.
| Suggestion | Details |
| Choose the right campground | Finding the perfect seasonal campground starts with being aware of your needs. Consider the location, amenities, activities, size of your RV, length of stay, preferred season, and any special needs, like pet-friendly or particular access sites. |
| Prepare for varied weather conditions | Finding the perfect seasonal campground starts with being aware of your needs. Consider the location, amenities, activities, size of your RV, length of stay, preferred season, and any special needs, like pet-friendly or special access sites. |
| Consider your budget | Understand the rules and regulations. |
| Prepare for varied weather conditions | You need to know your budget before you set out on your trip. Don’t forget to consider the gas, food, campsite fees, and other expenses when planning your budget. |
Conclusion
New Hampshire is perfect for seasonal camping. It has a wide range of options and offers plenty of activities for campers to stay engaged throughout their stay. It has something to offer everyone. Whether you are looking for an adventure-packed stay or want to blow off steam and relax for a few weeks, New Hampshire will never disappoint.
FAQs
2. How can I find seasonal campsites for sale in New Hampshire?
The best ways to find seasonal campsites for sale are online listings, consulting a real estate agent, and word-of-mouth. However, online listings are the most convenient as they cut out the role of an intermediary.
3. What amenities are typically offered at seasonal campgrounds in NH?
In NH, most campgrounds offer toilets and showers, drinking water access, picnic tables, fire rings, dump stations, and electrical hookups.
4. Are any seasonal New Hampshire campgrounds providing educational programs or workshops for campers?
Silver Lake Park Campground, Crawford Notch State Park Campground, and Dry River Campground offer different educational programs like nature walks, stargazing programs, fishing workshops, canoeing lessons, and environmental topics.
1. What are the top seasonal campgrounds in New Hampshire that offer lakefront sites?
Some popular seasonal campgrounds offering lakefront sites include Silver Lake Park Campground, Crawford Notch State Park Campground, and Dry River Campground.
