Mountain Camping in New Hampshire

Mountain Camping in New Hampshire

Discover the best mountain camping across New Hampshire. Rise above it all in mountain campgrounds. Crisp air, towering peaks, and endless alpine adventure.

20+ Campgrounds4.6★ AverageBest: Year-round

Featured Campgrounds

Handpicked destinations that define the region


About Mountain Camping in New Hampshire

Mountain camping in New Hampshire offers unparalleled access to some of the most dramatic alpine terrain in the Northeast, where the White Mountains rise majestically above pristine forests and crystal-clear streams. From the towering Presidential Range to the iconic summit of Mount Monadnock, the Granite State's mountain campgrounds serve as gateways to legendary hiking trails, cascading waterfalls, and panoramic vistas that draw outdoor enthusiasts from around the world.

Best Time

The prime mountain camping season in New Hampshire runs from late May through mid-October, with peak conditions occurring during the summer months of July and August when all facilities are fully operational and weather is most stable. However, serious hikers often prefer September and early October when fall foliage transforms the mountains into a spectacular canvas of reds, oranges, and golds, though nights turn considerably cooler with temperatures often dropping into the 30s.

Scenery Highlights

  • Stunning mountain panoramas
  • Cool alpine temperatures
  • Alpine lakes and meadows
  • World-class hiking trails


Campground Locations

Showing top 20 campgrounds near Mountain Camping in New Hampshire

Map Key
1
Moose Brook State Park
2
Cannon Mountain Rv Park
3
Sugarloaf 1 Campground
4
Lake Francis State Park
5
Lafayette Place Campground
6
Monadnock State Park Gilson Pond Area
7
Sugarloaf 2 Campground
8
Waterville Campground
9
Umbagog Lake State Park
10
Milan Hill State Park
11
Jigger Johnson Campground
12
Dry River Campground
13
Doublehead Cabin
14
Pillsbury State Park
15
Fourth Iron Campground
16
Bear Brook State Park
17
Imp Shelter
18
Kinsman Pond Shelter
19
Mollidgewock State Park
20
Radeke Cabin

Plan Your Trips

Popular Activities

Mountain hiking and peak bagging the 48 4,000-footersScenic driving along the Kancamagus Highway and through notchesSwimming in mountain streams, brooks, and alpine pondsWildlife viewing including moose, black bears, and peregrine falconsRock climbing on granite cliffs in Franconia Notch and Cathedral LedgeWaterfall photography at Arethusa Falls, Diana's Baths, and Sabbaday Falls

Tips & Recommendations

  • 1Reserve campsites at popular White Mountains campgrounds at least three to six months in advance for summer weekends, as places like Lafayette Place and Moose Brook State Park fill quickly through the New Hampshire State Parks reservation system.
  • 2Pack layers regardless of season—mountain weather changes rapidly, and temperatures can drop 30-40 degrees from day to night even in summer.
  • 3Bring a quality four-season tent if camping in shoulder seasons, as mountain winds can be fierce and unexpected cold fronts common.
  • 4Black flies and mosquitoes peak from late May through June, so pack effective insect repellent and consider a head net for hiking.
20 campgrounds ranked
Based on real camper reviews
Curated for Mountain Camping in New Hampshire

Mountain Camping in New Hampshire FAQ

We've ranked 20+ mountain campgrounds in New Hampshire based on elevation, scenery, and access to trails. Top options offer stunning alpine views and cool summer temperatures.

Mountain camping in New Hampshire requires preparation for cooler temperatures and changing weather. Bring layers, be prepared for afternoon storms, and allow time for altitude acclimation at higher elevations.

Mountain camping season in New Hampshire typically runs June through September, though lower elevations may be accessible earlier. Snow can linger at higher elevations into July.

Availability Alerts

Popular New Hampshire Campgrounds Book Fast

The best mountain camping in New Hampshire book up quickly. Set up free alerts to catch cancellations.

Checks every 2 min
SMS, email, push
150,000+ campsites

Outdoorithm

Just now

🎉 Site opened up!

Moose Brook State Park
Your preferred dates

Quick! This site typically books within hours.


Outdoorithm

Find Your Perfect New Hampshire Campground

Create your free account to save favorites, set availability alerts, and get personalized recommendations.

  • Search 20+ mountain camping in New Hampshire
  • Set alerts for hard-to-book sites
  • Get personalized recommendations for your trip
  • Compare campground amenities
  • Check weather forecasts

No credit card required. Every feature is free to use.