How much does camping cost at Waterville Campground?

Camping fees at Waterville Campground are $24/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Waterville Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Waterville Campground accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Waterville Campground before I book?

Yes! Waterville Campground has 6 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Waterville Campground?

Waterville Campground is open May 22 to October 08. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Waterville Campground?

Waterville Campground does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Is there cell service at Waterville Campground?

Cell phone service at Waterville Campground is generally available. Cell service is available. Coverage may vary by carrier and exact location within the campground.

How many campsites does Waterville Campground have?

Waterville Campground has 26 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Waterville Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Waterville Campground. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Waterville Campground?

Waterville Campground offers: Restrooms, Potable Water, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

Waterville Campground

Q: Can I have a campfire at Waterville Campground?

Fire policies at Waterville Campground: Don't move firewood: To limit the spread of invasive tree-killing pests, firewood from outside the area is not permitted. Some states have quarantines and may confiscate your firewood. Please help protect our forests from invasive species by obtaining your firewood at or near your camping destination and burning it on-site. Visit dontmovefirewood.org for more information.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.53

129 reviews

WHITE MOUNTAIN

B+Report Card

Scenic Views

Featured in:Primitive Camping New Hampshire#2 Fall Camping New Hampshire#2 Pet-Friendly Campgrounds New Hampshire +11 more

Quick Facts

1,457 ft

Price

$24/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

26 campsites

Season

Open May 22 to Octob...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Book on White Mountain National Forest Campgrounds Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

1,457 ft

Price

$24/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

26 campsites

Season

Open May 22 to Octob...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Book on White Mountain National Forest Campgrounds Official Website

Get Directions

Waterville Campground

$24.00 / night

Campsite Fees

MANAGEMENT: $24.00; STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $24.00; TENT ONLY NONELECTRIC: $24.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9...

No campsite fee categories listed.

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Provider

603-536-6100whitemountaincampgrounds@goexplorus.com

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Campground Map

WHITE MOUNTAIN

Waterville Campground

WHITE MOUNTAIN

Nearby places

Waterville Valley (approximately 1 mile), Plymouth (approximately 11 miles), Lincoln (approximately 28 miles)

Weather at Waterville Campground

Current alerts(8)

Be bear aware; keep all food out of site in approved containers or locked inside a hard-sided vehicle and remove all food from area after eating
Click here for more information on White Mountain National Forest website
No switching sites upon arrival
Please Note: Site fee includes one RV with tow vehicle, tent sites include two vehicles. If space allows a third vehicle would be an additional fee paid at time of check in.

Best Time to Camp at Waterville Campground

Best season: fall. Autumn delivers the campground's most spectacular experience — crisp, clear days (typically 40–60°F) and chilly nights (30s–40s) combine with peak foliage in late September through early October, making hikes into the Pemigewasset Wilderness and riverside photography outstanding. Trails are at their most comfortable for long day hikes and scrambling without summer heat, and fishing and wildlife viewing are excellent as animals prepare for winter. Expect higher visitation on weekend foliage peaks Peak months: September, October, June, July Avoid: November, December, January, February

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Fall is the standout season; peak foliage and many reviews emphasize autumn experience.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 22 to October 08. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open May 22 to October 13 for reservable stays.

About Waterville Campground

Waterville Campground sits in the White Mountain National Forest foothills near Waterville Valley, operated by the Forest Service with access to the Mad River and trails into the Pemigewasset Wilderness. This small, seasonal campground offers spacious tent and primitive sites with vault toilets and potable water. Campers hike, fish, swim, bike, and boat from a base that shines brightest during fall foliage season when crisp weather and brilliant colors make riverside photography and long trail days exceptional.

Waterville Campground offers a mix of standard and tent-only campsites, all located in a single loop. Sites are well-spaced, providing a blend of privacy and accessibility. Primitive camping is emphasized, with amenities limited to vault toilets and hand-pump water.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: fall. Autumn delivers the campground's most spectacular experience — crisp, clear days (typically 40–60°F) and chilly nights (30s–40s) combine with peak foliage in late September through early October, making hikes into the Pemigewasset Wilderness and riverside photography outstanding. Trails are at their most comfortable for long day hikes and scrambling without summer heat, and fishing and wildlife viewing are excellent as animals prepare for winter. Expect higher visitation on weekend foliage peaks Peak months: September, October, June, July Avoid: November, December, January, February

Elevation1457 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground sits at 1,457 feet, surrounded by northern hardwoods: sugar maples, yellow birches, and American beeches. The Mad River runs nearby, its mountain water tumbling over granite boulders. Privacy varies by site. Some are well-screened by trees, others sit closer together. Wildlife includes moose, white-tailed deer, black bears, and nearly 200 bird species. The White Mountains rise around the valley, their peaks visible through the canopy.

Lodging & AccommodationsLodging options are limited to camping. No hotel-style accommodations are available.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum stay of 14 nights during a visit, total stay limit of 14 nights within rolling 30 days.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Number of guests per site is not explicitly stated.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov.

AccessibilityAccessibility options are unspecified in the authoritative text but user reviews do not mention significant challenges.

Site SizeCampers have noted that campsites are spacious and well-maintained, with some offering good privacy due to natural screening.

PrivacyThe sites offer a mix of privacy levels. Some are well-screened with trees, while others are closer together.

Total Campsites26 campsites

Recommended SitesReserve sites near the Mad River for proximity to water and scenic surroundings.

Best CampsitesSite 017 gets consistent praise for space and privacy. Sites near the Mad River are popular but book fast.

Need help booking Waterville Campground?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

Waterville Campground offers basic amenities like vault toilets and potable water via hand pumps. While showers and laundry are not on-site, they are available within a short drive. Some campers noted issues with the water quality, describing it as 'rusty' but manageable with filtration. Firewood is sold on-site, and the campground is dog-friendly. Campers appreciated the seclusion and cleanliness of the facilities.

Potable water

Firewood available

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

Things to do at Waterville Campground

Waterville Campground is a gateway to numerous recreational opportunities. Hiking is a primary draw, with trails like Drakes Brook Trail and Sandwich Trail offering scenic loops. Campers can also fish in the Mad River for brook trout or kayak in nearby waters. The region's proximity to the White Mountains allows access to additional activities such as golf, horseback riding, and winter sports.

Hiking4.0/5

Hiking is described as a primary draw; Drakes Brook and Sandwich Trails accessible from site.

Fishing4.0/5

Water Sports3.5/5

Swimming3.0/5

No formal swim area, but Mad River offers informal swimming spots nearby.

Biking3.0/5

Near bike trail connecting to Waterville Valley; suitable for day rides from campground.

Boating3.0/5

Rivers nearby support boating/kayaking access, though not a developed launch site.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available. The campground provides vault toilets, which users described as clean and functional.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

No Dump StationThere is no dump station at this campground. Plan to use a dump station along your route or at a nearby facility before or after your stay.

Fire PolicyDon't move firewood: To limit the spread of invasive tree-killing pests, firewood from outside the area is not permitted. Some states have quarantines and may confiscate your firewood. Please help protect our forests from invasive species by obtaining your firewood at or near your camping destination and burning it on-site. Visit dontmovefirewood.org for more information.

Trash & RecyclingTrash facilities, including dumpsters, are available on-site. Recycling options were not specified.

Cell CoverageCell service is available, with Verizon users reporting signal strength of 2 bars, adequate for phone calls and internet hotspots.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.5

129 reviews

Top-Rated

Waterville Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews for Waterville Campground are overwhelmingly positive, praising the natural beauty, cleanliness, and friendly hosts. Some critiques focus on the lack of modern amenities like showers and the water quality from hand pumps.

Review Summaries

Based on 129 reviews

What Campers Love

Campers frequently compliment the spacious, well-maintained campsites and the scenic surroundings, including proximity to the Mad River and White Mountains. The campground hosts, notably George, are...

Based on 129 reviews

Common Concerns

The most common complaints include the 'rusty' water quality from hand pumps, lack of showers, and occasional noise from nearby roads. Some users also expressed concerns about limited privacy between...

Based on 129 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Campsite #017 is noted for its spaciousness and slight isolation, while #022 was described as large and wooded. #012 is convenient to water and facilities but had rusty water issues. #025 offers...

Based on 129 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring a water filtration system to address the water quality. Reserve sites in advance due to the campground's popularity. Take advantage of the nearby activities in Waterville Valley, such as hiking...

Based on 129 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is especially popular during the fall foliage season, with many reviews highlighting the stunning leaf colors. Summer is also a favored season for its accessibility to hiking and water...

Based on 129 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Mates this a hidden treasure!!! Mountains, Waterfalls, Camping, what more could you ask for???' - B K 2. 'Vault toilets and terrible water quality make tough for kids or those unprepared. Must...

Based on 129 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility is generally appreciated for its connection to trails and natural features. No significant accessibility complaints were noted.

Based on 129 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

The campground is dog-friendly, with several users emphasizing its suitability for pets. 'Dog-friendly. Host lives in site and is very nice.' - desarey

Based on 129 reviews

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Waterville Campground

$24.00 / night

Campsite Fees

MANAGEMENT: $24.00; STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $24.00; TENT ONLY NONELECTRIC: $24.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9...

No campsite fee categories listed.

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

263,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

603-536-6100whitemountaincampgrounds@goexplorus.com

Go if

You want affordable access to White Mountain trails and the Mad River with room to spread out during peak foliage season.

Skip if

You need showers, flush toilets, or reliable well water quality beyond basic potability.

Nearby Campgrounds

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(92)

Osceola Vista Campground

WHITE MOUNTAIN

Osceola Vista Campground sits in the White Mountain National Forest foothills near Waterville Valley, operated by the U.S. Forest Service. The small campground offers spacious tent and primitive sites plus group camping options, drawing visitors for fall foliage hikes and mountain biking on nearby trails. Reviewers praise the natural setting and generous site spacing, though Tripoli Road access can be rough and group noise occasionally disrupts the quiet.

Waterville Campground

Quick Facts

Quick Facts

Get Notified When Available

Ask Camp Sage about Waterville Campground

Campground Map

Weather at Waterville Campground

Current alerts(8)

Best Time to Camp at Waterville Campground

Planning Tips

About Waterville Campground

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Waterville Campground?

Amenities available

Things to do at Waterville Campground

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews

Get Notified When Available

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How campers graded it

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Featured in these camping guides

Ask Camp Sage about Waterville Campground

Current alerts(8)

Best Time to Camp at Waterville Campground

Planning Tips

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Waterville Campground?

Amenities available

Things to do at Waterville Campground

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews