Russell Pond Campground

Star4.22
340 reviews
Summer Destination

Quick Facts

1,759 ft

Price

$30/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

84 campsites

Season

Open: May 22 - Octob...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Opens White Mountain National Forest 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
Russell Pond Campground
$30.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Nightly rates for standard nonelectric, tent only nonelectric, and walk-in sites are consistently $30 during peak season. Out-of-season bookings are...
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Standard Site Fee$30.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$30.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Provider
(603) 536-6100
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What Campers Say

4.22

Satisfactory

Based on 340 reviews

159 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanspacioushikingwater

"Overall, Russell Pond Campground is highly rated for its serene environment, proximity to outdoor activities, and clean facilities. However, issues such as limited parking, occasional noise, and malfunctioning showers have been reported."

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Campground Map

Russell Pond Campground

44.0087, -71.6489

Driving directionsLocated off Exit 31 (Tripoli Rd) off I-93. Head east on Tripoli Road; campground entrance on north side of road. Follow road 2 miles to campground (and a little slice of heaven).
The campground is accessed via Tripoli Road, which is a steep, winding road, surrounded by wilderness. The drive offers picturesque views but may be challenging for larger vehicles. Guests describe it as 'steep ascents.'
Nearby places
Lincoln, NH (6 miles, 15 minutes)
Woodstock, NH (8 miles, 20 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Supplies can be found in Lincoln, NH, approximately 15 minutes away, including groceries and fuel. Firewood is available for purchase from the campground hosts.

Best Time to Camp at Russell Pond Campground

Each season paints Russell Pond Campground with its own distinct palette. Summer brings gentle warmth perfect for lakeside lounging, while autumn transforms the surrounding hardwood forest into a breathtaking tapestry of gold, crimson, and amber that draws leaf-peepers from far and wide. Plan your visit between late September and October to witness nature's most spectacular show. Winter's frigid embrace offers its own stark beauty, though most visitors prefer the milder months. Be prepared for occasional summer storms that can bring dramatic rainfall and temporary power interruptions—nature's reminder that you're truly in the wilderness.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Summer offers swimming, paddling and lakeside lounging; reviewers praise summer use.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.5 / 5

Autumn 'particularly appreciated' for foliage and quieter atmosphere per summary.

Spring(Mar-May)
Not recommended

Facility opens May 22; most of spring is outside operating season.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground closed Oct 13–May 22; winter season not served.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: May 22 - October 13.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open: May 22 - October 13; Closed: October 13 - May 22.
  • Current Alerts: No current alerts but some reviews indicate occasional power outages and issues with shower functionality.

About Russell Pond Campground

Perched gracefully on a wooded hillside above the sparkling waters of Russell Pond, this 84-site campground seamlessly blends modern comfort with natural beauty. Whether you're pitching a tent beneath the canopy of towering hardwoods or settling in with a large RV, you'll find the perfect spot among the terraced sites that cascade down toward the water's edge. Modern amenities including flush toilets and coin-operated showers ensure comfort, while the dappled sunlight filtering through the mature forest canopy creates an atmosphere of tranquil seclusion. The pristine pond below beckons with its calm waters, perfect for peaceful paddling adventures or refreshing swims on warm summer days.
Russell Pond Campground accommodates a variety of camping styles, including sites for tents, RVs, and walk-in access. Group camping is supported, but no cabin or glamping options are available.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
12:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during any visit at this campground, and up to 14 nights total within a rolling 30 days.

Amenities available

Showers
Potable water
Flush toilets
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available

Activities you can enjoy

Russell Pond Campground offers a range of recreational activities, including fishing, boating, hiking, and swimming. The nearby White Mountains provide additional opportunities for hiking, biking, and wildlife observation.
HikingThe campground provides access to numerous hiking trails both within the facility and in the surrounding White Mountain region. Notable nearby trails include those along the Kancamagus National Scenic Byway and Franconia Ridge.
FishingFishing in Russell Pond is popular, with the pond regularly stocked with trout by the State Fish and Game Department. Power boats are not permitted, ensuring a tranquil fishing experience.
SwimmingRussell Pond is suitable for swimming, with clear water described as 'crystal clear.' Users enjoy the scenery of loons and surrounding wooded hills while swimming.
BikingMountain biking opportunities are available nearby, and the campground is close to trails in the White Mountain National Forest.
BoatingNon-motorized boating is supported, with a boat ramp available for kayaks and canoes. The pond is noted for its tranquil, scenic environment.
Wildlife viewingRussell Pond and its surrounding areas are rich in wildlife, including moose, white-tailed deer, and nearly 200 bird species such as the rare Bicknell's Thrush. Visitors have reported seeing loons and bald eagles.
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include black bears and wildlife encounters. Campers are advised to store food in approved containers. Slippery boat ramps with exposed rebar present a safety risk.
Active AlertsNo current alerts but some reviews indicate occasional power outages and issues with shower functionality.

Weather at Russell Pond Campground

Reviews

4.2
340 reviews
Satisfactory
Satisfactory
Russell Pond Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, Russell Pond Campground is highly rated for its serene environment, proximity to outdoor activities, and clean facilities. However, issues such as limited parking, occasional noise, and malfunctioning showers have been reported.
Review Summaries
Based on 340 reviews

What Campers Love

Users praise the campground's spacious and private sites, clean bathrooms, and scenic Russell Pond with clear water. Hosts are described as friendly and helpful. Many visitors appreciate the...
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Based on 340 reviews

Common Concerns

Recurring issues include limited parking at campsites, occasional racetrack noise, and steep access to some facilities. Malfunctioning showers and challenges with coin availability have also been...
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Based on 340 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring quarters for showers ($2.50 for 5 minutes). Consider weekday stays to avoid crowds and racetrack noise. Choose sites closer to the pond for better access, but note that first-come-first-serve...
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Based on 340 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Fall is particularly appreciated for its foliage and quieter atmosphere. Weekends and holidays tend to be busier, with occasional noise from nearby racetracks.
Based on 340 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The pond water is crystal clear!" - Michael D. "The hosts were friendly and helpful." - Anastasiya M. "Bathrooms were clean, but showers can be cold." - Elizabeth M.
Based on 340 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Campsite D01 is a short walk to the lake and near bathrooms. D9 and D10 are noted to be less private. E14 is praised for its proximity to attractions. Sites like A09 are known for good privacy.
Based on 340 reviews

Accessibility Features

Some users mention challenges with stairs and slopes, which may impact accessibility. Bathrooms are clean but may be difficult to reach in certain areas.
Based on 340 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, with a limit of two per site. No specific complaints or praises related to pets were noted.
Based on 340 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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