Camping season is upon us, and reservations for New Hampshire State Parks are always better for you when done in advance. Here is a list of some of our lesser-known options for lodging in and around the State Parks. Including in this list are options for RVers, groups, adventures looking to go off the beaten path and more. Hit one of these spots this year or make it a tour through them all, there’s always something new to find within each of these hidden gems.
The On Grid/Off Grid Option
DRy river Campground
at Crawford Notch State Park
At this campground, reception for cellular and data is limited, making it perfect for an unplugged trip, while also being close enough to Twin Mountain and Mt. Washington Valley for a trip into town. Located at the center of the White Mountain National Forest and Crawford Notch State Park, the campground is surrounded by hiking trails for a variety of abilities, and swimming holes/fishing spots; not to mention the Dry River, that flows beside the campground with the perfect ith showers, washrooms, picnic tables and water filling stations, Dry River is a great stay for the camper who wants to feel off the grid, but not completely isolated from life’s simple luxuries.
The Facts:
Overview
- Crawford Notch, directly off Route 302
- Reservation period: Memorial Day Weekend – Columbus Day Weekend
- Pet friendly
Site Options
- Lean-to
- Tent only
- Standard
- pop-up tent
Activities
- River Fishing
- Hiking
- Climbing
find it!
The Find Your New Point of View Option
COLEMAN STATE PARK
This four-season lodging option is the ultimate destination for going beyond and finding new points of view in New Hampshire. Coleman State Park has 25 campsites with a full-service and accessible comfort stations and recreation spaces. It’s surrounded by OHRV trails, the Cohos Trails for hiking and biking and Diamond Pond for paddling and trout fishing. Early season, rent a cabin or lodge that sleep up to eight. Later into summer, reserve a tent on Diamond Pond for some of the best stargazing in the state.
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The Facts:
Overview
- Off Route 26, west in Stewartstown
- 25 miles southeast of Lake Francis
- 12 miles from Colebrook
- Reservation period for campsites: May 13–Oct. 16
- Pet Friendly
Site Options
- Camper Cabins
- Lodges
- Campsites
- Lean-to
- Standard
- Tent only
Activities
- Fishing
- ATV/Snowmobiling
- Hunting
- Stargazing
Find It!
The Summer Camp Feeling Option
Ellacoya State Park
Located on Lake Winnipesaukee, Ellacoya State Park’s central location makes it easily accessible, whether on a grand tour of the State Parks or popping in for a night. The campground has full-hookup sites for RVs and 600 feet of beach for recreational activities. Being a popular destination for groups and day functions, the park has all the nostalgic charm of those summer camp days. On the other side of a footbridge, the pull-in sites offer space and seclusion.
The Facts:
Overview
- Gilford, Southwest shore of Lake Winnipesaukee
- Reservation period: May 13–Oct.31
- No pets
Site Options
Activities
- Boating - Fishing
- Hiking
- Swimming - Beach Recreation
Find It!
The Run Wild Option
Bear Brook State Park
The largest of the 93 New Hampshire State Parks, Bear Brook State Park has 10,000 acres of land, 40 miles of trails and a number of recreation options from archery to equestrian. The Bear Hill Pond Cabins at the state park are a convenient camping option for 4–8 campers. Each cabin has bunk beds and futons, as well as a fire ring and picnic area outside. Stick together or go your own way, this option never runs out of things to do and see.
The Facts:
Overview
- Located in Allenstown, NH, a short drive from the Concord and Manchester areas.
Site Options
Find It!
The Naturalist's Option
Pillsbury State Park
Easily the most primitive of the hidden gems listed, Pillsbury State Park has 41 sites spread across the banks of four ponds. It’s a naturalist’s paradise, with miles of channels and wetlands to paddle through and explore. Canoes and kayaks can be rented and launched on Vickery Pond. This campground is a wonderland of activities, with a network of biking and hiking trails, and fishing spots. Historic sites round out this campground for a stay that has something for everyone.
The Facts:
Overview
- Washington; east off Route 31
- Reservation period: Memorial Day Weekend–Columbus Day Weekend
- Pet friendly
Camping options
- pop-up /tent
- Standard
- Remote
- Tent only
Activities
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Biking
- Boating
