Hancock Campground

Star4.36
259 reviews
SwimmingSummer Destination

Quick Facts

1,168 ft

Price

$25 - $27/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

56 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens USDA Forest Service site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Hancock Campground
$25.00 - $27.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The fee for sites ranges from $25 to $27 per night. There may be variations seasonally.
Standard Site Fee$27.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Provider
603-447-5448
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What Campers Say

4.36

Recommended

Based on 259 reviews

219 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewscleanspacioushiking

Some mention

noise

"Hancock Campground is highly regarded for its cleanliness, natural beauty, and accessibility to local attractions. Many users highlight the proximity to the river and hiking trails as standout features. It is described as a well-maintained location with attentive hosts."

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Campground Map

Hancock Campground

44.0637, -71.5942

Driving directionsExit 32 off Interstate 93. This campground is located on Kancamagus Highway (Route 112); 5 miles East of Lincoln, NH.
The campground is directly accessible from Kancamagus Highway (Route 112), a prominent scenic byway. The roads are paved and well-maintained, making it easy for visitors year-round. It also offers connections from Interstate 93, providing convenient access.
Nearby places
Lincoln (~5 miles, 10 minutes drive)
North Woodstock (~7 miles, 12 minutes drive), Franconia (~15 miles).
Nearby supplies
Closest camping supplies, groceries, and fuel are available in Lincoln, NH, approximately 5 miles from the campground.

Best Time to Camp at Hancock Campground

Experience the gentle embrace of New Hampshire summers at Hancock, where daytime temperatures hover between a comfortable 60-80°F, perfect for hiking and river activities. As autumn arrives, the surrounding forests explode in a spectacular display of color. Winter transforms the campground into a snow-draped wonderland, with temperatures plunging below freezing and pristine snowfall creating opportunities for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. The campground's year-round accessibility means each season offers its own unique magic and adventure.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Peak season June–Aug: ideal 60–80°F weather, swimming holes and hiking draw most visitors.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.5 / 5
Top 12% in ME

White Mountains foliage and scenic trails make autumn a standout season for views and hiking.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.5 / 5

Spring has trail access and thawing rivers; mud and variable conditions make it less consistent than summer/fall.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
4.0 / 5
Top 11% in ME

Open year-round; reviews note well-plowed sites and good winter camping for snow activities.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: Peak season generally runs from May through October.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open year-round.

About Hancock Campground

Nestled along the scenic Kancamagus Highway, Hancock Campground beckons adventurers with its intimate charm and prime riverside location. This beloved 56-site retreat offers the perfect balance between wilderness immersion and comfort, where towering trees provide natural privacy and the melodic sounds of the Pemigewasset River create a constant soundtrack. Despite its modest size, this gem consistently draws nature enthusiasts who appreciate its well-maintained facilities, including modern flush toilets and fresh potable water, all while maintaining that authentic forest camping experience.
Hancock Campground features 56 sites suitable for both tent and RV camping. A mix of standard drive-in sites and walk-in sites close to the river are available. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis year-round.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Check-in available at any time.
Check-out
Check-out by noon.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay is 14 nights.

Amenities available

Potable water
Flush toilets
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available

Activities you can enjoy

Hancock Campground offers a variety of activities suitable for outdoor enthusiasts. The campground's location by the East Branch Pemigewasset River provides opportunities for swimming and fishing. Its proximity to the Lincoln Woods Visitor Center and nearby trails makes it an excellent base for hiking trips. Seasonal activities include snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in winter.
HikingThe campground is located near multiple hiking trails, including those leading into the Pemigewasset Wilderness. Popular hikes like the Lincoln Woods Trailhead are within walking distance, and some trails offer stunning views of the surrounding White Mountains.
FishingFishing in the East Branch Pemigewasset River is a popular activity. Anglers can expect to find brook trout in the cool waters.
SwimmingCampers can enjoy swimming in the East Branch Pemigewasset River. User reviews praise the natural swimming holes along the river.
Wildlife viewingThe White Mountains are home to diverse wildlife, including moose and black bears. Campers have reported wildlife sightings during their stay.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsThe campground is in bear country. Visitors are advised to store food properly. Winter camping may involve icy conditions.
Food Storage RequiredBear-proof lockers are available in walk-in sites near the river. Visitors are encouraged to use these for food storage.

Weather at Hancock Campground

Reviews

4.4
259 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Hancock Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Hancock Campground is highly regarded for its cleanliness, natural beauty, and accessibility to local attractions. Many users highlight the proximity to the river and hiking trails as standout features. It is described as a well-maintained location with attentive hosts.
Review Summaries
Based on 259 reviews

What Campers Love

Users appreciate the clean facilities, spacious campsites, proximity to the river, and easy access to hiking trails. The campground's natural swimming holes and scenic views are frequently praised.
Based on 259 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include the lack of showers and electrical hookups. Some users also noted issues with noise and inconsiderate neighboring campers during busy periods.
Based on 259 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Arrive early for first-come, first-served sites, as riverfront locations fill up quickly. Bring exact cash for payment, and prepare for no cell service or showers. A bear box is provided at walk-in...
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Based on 259 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer months are the most popular due to swimming and hiking opportunities. Winter camping is appreciated by snowshoeing and skiing enthusiasts, though some facilities are less accessible due to...
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Based on 259 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The Pemi is amazing! Beautiful swimming hole!" – SOG Ronnie Ribs. "Clean and spacious campsites. Located about 5 mi from Lincoln, very convenient." – Bob Verville, Jr. "This is my all-time favorite...
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Based on 259 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Users recommend sites along the river for the best experience. For example, site 49 is praised for its proximity to the water pump, restroom, and dumpster.
Based on 259 reviews

Accessibility Features

The campground offers accessible vault toilets, but terrain challenges may limit mobility for some visitors.
Based on 259 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, and many reviewers have brought dogs. Owners should follow standard guidelines for leashing and cleaning up after pets.
Based on 259 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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