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fall camping in nh state parks fall camping in nh state parks

Discover Fall Camping

Find your new point of view on camping—visit our campsites in the fall!

bear brook fire ring bear brook fire ring
pawtuckaway campsite in fall pawtuckaway campsite in fall
bear hill cabins at night bear hill cabins at night
young boy toasting marshmallow young boy toasting marshmallow
pillsbury state park in fall pillsbury state park in fall
pillsbury state park tent and campsite at night pillsbury state park tent and campsite at night
great north woods peak foliage great north woods peak foliage
coleman lodges fire ring at night coleman lodges fire ring at night
It's no secret that New Hampshire has got it going on in the fall for seasonal splendor, but not many know it’s one of the best seasons for camping in New Hampshire. Summer is NH State Parks’ most active season for campers, but most of our campgrounds are open for some, if not all of October. Campers can retreat and take respite in the crisp autumnal air while feeling like they have the mountains or beach all to themselves.
 
For frequent campers, your fall trip may be a bit different than what you’re used to. Some of our campgrounds, like Mollidgewock, Lafayette and Greenfield, change to primitive camping schedules, meaning that bathhouses and water will be unavailable,however, pit toilets are available for use. Even if you’ve visited a campground before, you should check our reservation site or call to see what schedule changes could look like for your campsite.
 
Since primitive camping is the only option for some of our campgrounds in October, there are a few things campers should keep in mind. The first being that the fall weather in New Hampshire is temperamental. October can be in the high 70s or 80s and feel like summer in the sun, while nights could get below freezing.
 
To be prepared for all types of weather, bringing more layers than you think you might need and staying dry is key to camping in the fall. A sleeping bag that is made for colder weather, and a tent that has a protective covering is a good idea. Winter hats, gloves and socks can come in handy in the early mornings and nights.
 
With fall foliage peaking in October across most of the state, hiking is the best way to see it. A lot of our campgrounds give hikers easy access to trails with a variety of difficulty. Just like camping, hiking in the fall can mean unpredictable conditions including high winds and even snow. Make sure to follow hiking guidelines and check advisories before you go!
 
With all this in mind, you're prepared to live in the best of fall by staying amongst the trees in the blazing colors, breathing in the chilly, refreshing winds and enjoying the warmth of the fire in your cozy garments.
 
young boy toasting marhsmallows over fire ring young boy toasting marhsmallows over fire ring
young boy toasting marhsmallows over fire ring young boy toasting marhsmallows over fire ring

Visit Our Campsites in the Fall!

See What's Available and Plan Your Trip

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172 Pembroke Road Concord, NH 03301