Top 10 RV Campgrounds in New Hampshire: The Ultimate Guide
Welcome to our comprehensive guide to the best campgrounds in New Hampshire! Known as the Granite State, New Hampshire offers a wealth of outdoor experiences with its stunning landscapes. Here you’ll find everything from picturesque lakes to majestic mountains. And what better way to enjoy these scenic vistas than by camping?
From the seacoast to the White Mountains, New Hampshire offers a diverse landscape that will make every camping trip a unique experience. So pack your gear and ready your RV with RVnGO. Let’s embark on a journey through the top 10 campgrounds in New Hampshire!
1. Franconia Notch State Park
Tucked away in the captivating White Mountain National Forest, Franconia Notch State Park is a mecca for camping enthusiasts. This campground, centered around the beautiful Echo Lake, is a haven for various recreational activities. Anglers can indulge in fishing, while those looking for a refreshing dip can head to the lake for a swim. Boat rentals are also available for those eager to explore the lake.
Nearby attractions include the Flume Gorge, a natural gorge extending up to 800 feet. Additionally, there’s the Franconia Ridge, a breathtaking mountain ridge that’s a favorite among hikers.
Amenities include:
- 100 campsites, equipped with water and electricity
- RV accessible
- Picnic areas for family gatherings
- Well-maintained restrooms and showers
- Boat rentals for a perfect day on the lake
2. Pawtuckaway State Park
Nestled along the shores of a large glacial lake, Pawtuckaway State Park provides campers with a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life. This place is an ideal spot for water-based activities like kayaking, canoeing, and fishing.
But that’s not all. Pawtuckaway also offers several miles of trails that are perfect for hiking and mountain biking. Keep an eye out for the diverse wildlife that call this park home.
Amenities include:
- Over 190 campsites suitable for both tents and RVs
- A beautiful beach area for sunbathing and swimming
- Boat ramp for easy access to the lake
- Picnic spots equipped with grills for an enjoyable barbeque
- An informative nature center
3. Lafayette Place Campground
Lafayette Place Campground is another jewel in the White Mountain National Forest that deserves a spot on your camping list. Strategically located, it offers an excellent base for exploring the nearby Franconia Notch.
Embark on the Falling Waters Trail and witness a series of stunning waterfalls. Alternatively, you can challenge yourself with a climb up Mount Lafayette for a panoramic view that’s worth the effort.
Amenities include:
- 97 campsites suitable for tents and RVs
- Facilities accessible for individuals with disabilities
- Several hiking trails for various skill levels
- Convenient water fill-up stations
4. White Lake State Park
This state park boasts a pristine sandy beach along White Lake, where you can spend a leisurely day soaking up the sun. Take a relaxing stroll along the nature trail encircling the lake, engage in a fun fishing session, or hop on a boat for an afternoon ride.
Amenities include:
- 200 campsites, with a few offering electrical hookups
- A bathhouse with hot showers for a comfortable stay
- Boat launch for easy access to the lake
- Picnic tables for a meal amidst nature
5. Cannon Mountain RV Park
For camping enthusiasts seeking a mountain retreat, Cannon Mountain RV Park is just the place. Situated at the foot of Cannon Mountain, this park transforms with the seasons. In summer, ride the aerial tramway to the summit for an unforgettable view. In winter, the park
becomes a snow-clad paradise for skiing enthusiasts. Nearby, the Franconia Notch Bike Path offers an excellent route for a leisurely cycle or a brisk walk.
Amenities include:
- Seven full hookup RV sites for a comfortable stay
- Picnic area for a meal with a view
- A popular ski area for winter sports enthusiasts
6. Ellacoya State Park
Situated on the southwestern shore of Lake Winnipesaukee, Ellacoya State Park offers a quintessential lakeside camping experience. The picturesque view of the surrounding mountains coupled with the calm lake waters creates an enchanting atmosphere. Spend a day swimming, sunbathing, or enjoy a picnic by the lake.
Amenities include:
- 37 RV sites equipped with full hookups
- A sandy beach area for a refreshing dip
- Boat launch for easy lake access
- Well-spread picnic areas for a perfect family outing
7. Crawford Notch State Park
Adventure awaits at every turn in Crawford Notch State Park. Situated in a dramatic mountain pass, the park provides ample opportunities for hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. A must-visit is the Arethusa Falls, the tallest waterfall in New Hampshire. Additionally, the Notch Road offers some of the most awe-inspiring drives in the region.
Amenities include:
- 36 tent and RV sites offering a rustic camping experience
- Multiple hiking trails of varying difficulty levels
- Convenient picnic tables for outdoor dining
- Clean restrooms for a comfortable stay
8. Mount Sunapee State Park
Home to Lake Sunapee and the Mount Sunapee Resort, this state park offers year-round recreation. The summer months bring beachside fun, while winter turns the landscape into a skiing haven. With a well-equipped campground, it’s a perfect spot for a weekend getaway or a long vacation.
Amenities include:
- 10 campsites, some with hookups
- A beach area with a bathhouse
- A boat launch for your water adventures
- A ski area for winter sports enthusiasts
9. Greenfield State Park
For a truly immersive nature experience, Greenfield State Park is the place to be. Covering a vast 400-acre area, this park offers a serene setting around Otter Lake and Bog Pond. Walk along the park’s trails, go fishing, or simply relax and admire the surrounding beauty.
Amenities include:
- 252 campsites that accommodate tents and RVs
- A beach area for those long summer days
- Boat launch for an adventurous day on the water
- Convenient picnic spots for a meal in the great outdoors
10. Moose Brook State Park
Located in the scenic White Mountains region, Moose Brook State Park provides a rustic and authentic camping experience. The park’s trails will lead you through diverse landscapes, including dense woods, flowing streams, and a stunning gorge. For a refreshing end to your day of adventure, take a swim in the Moose River.
Amenities include:
- 59 tent and RV sites for an overnight stay
- Numerous hiking and biking trails
- Picnic area for a delightful meal outdoors
- A swimming hole to cool off during warm days
Bonus: Boondocking in New Hampshire
For those seeking a truly immersive experience with nature, boondocking, or dispersed camping, is an excellent choice. New Hampshire, with its vast public lands, allows for opportunities to set up camp away from the traditional campgrounds. This form of camping often has fewer amenities but offers a unique chance to connect more deeply with the natural beauty of the Granite State.
To plan your boondocking adventure, consider camping on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands in New Hampshire. Always remember to follow the Leave No Trace principles to ensure these lands remain pristine for future generations.
Conclusion
Endowed with a wealth of natural splendor and vibrant outdoor activities, New Hampshire presents a cornucopia of experiences for everyone. Whether you’re a trail-blazing hiker, a zealous wildlife enthusiast, or you simply crave the comforting calm of lake-side relaxation, these top 10 campgrounds are your passport to a memorable camping adventure in New Hampshire.
Remember, camping isn’t just about reaching a destination—it’s also about enjoying the journey. So, take the scenic route, go at your own pace, and let yourself be captivated by all the astonishing beauty that New Hampshire has to offer. It’s time to pack your gear, draw up your itinerary, and set off for an adventure in the Granite State! Your camping adventure awaits, and New Hampshire welcomes you with open arms.