Dolly Copp

Star4.61
68 reviews
White Mountain National Forest, Dolly Copp Road
Dolly Copp
$30.00 - $44.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Rates vary by site type and season. Peak season (May 15 - Oct 13) rates are $30-$44 nightly.
Standard Site Fee$30.00
Hookup Site Fee$44.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$74.00

Share this campground
Recreation Dot Gov
Provider
603-466-2713whitemountaincampgrounds@explorus.com

About this campground

Nestled in the heart of the White Mountain National Forest, Dolly Copp Campground stands as the forest's premier camping destination, where generations of outdoor enthusiasts have created lasting memories. This expansive facility welcomes everyone from weekend warriors to seasoned adventurers, offering thoughtfully organized camping loops that provide both community and privacy. Whether you're lacing up hiking boots for a mountain adventure, casting a line in crystal-clear waters, or gathering around the evening campfire for ranger-led programs, Dolly Copp serves as your perfect basecamp for exploring New Hampshire's natural wonders.
Dolly Copp Campground provides diverse camping options, including sites for RVs, tents, and group camping. Primitive camping and luxury options like glamping are not available.
Historical SignificanceFor decades, Dolly Copp Campground has woven itself into the fabric of White Mountain folklore, becoming a cherished tradition for families who return year after year. The campground's legacy stretches back through generations, with grandparents sharing stories of their first camping trips here with wide-eyed grandchildren. This beloved forest retreat has witnessed countless first campfires, summit celebrations, and the forging of lifelong friendships, earning its place as a cornerstone of the White Mountain camping experience.
Weather and SeasonsSummer days at Dolly Copp typically unfold with warm sunshine filtering through the forest canopy, creating ideal conditions for outdoor adventures. However, the mountain's mercurial personality means you should pack layers – the weather here writes its own rules, occasionally surprising campers with dramatic temperature drops, unexpected rain showers, or even rare summer snowflakes dancing down from the peaks. This unpredictable mountain climate adds an element of adventure to every stay, reminding visitors they're camping in the realm of New England's highest peaks.
ElevationPerched at the dramatic base of Mount Washington, New England's highest peak, Dolly Copp Campground offers campers a front-row seat to one of nature's most impressive theaters. From this strategic vantage point, you'll wake to morning light illuminating the Presidential Range while enjoying the accessibility and comfort of lower-elevation camping.
Natural Features and SceneryA tapestry of mixed hardwoods, aromatic spruce, and towering pines creates a living cathedral around Dolly Copp's campsites, where dappled sunlight plays across the forest floor. The melodic Peabody River and babbling Culhane Brook wind through the campground, providing a natural soundtrack and refreshing spots to cool tired feet. Above it all, Mount Washington presides majestically, its summit often wreathed in clouds, offering ever-changing vistas that transform from misty morning silhouettes to golden sunset spectacles.
Geological RegionDolly Copp Campground occupies a unique ecological niche where northern and temperate forests converge at the base of Mount Washington. This diverse woodland ecosystem, characteristic of the White Mountain National Forest, showcases nature's resilience with its blend of hardy spruces and pines mingling with deciduous hardwoods. The campground's position in this transitional forest zone offers visitors a chance to experience the full spectrum of New England's mountain ecology, from moss-covered boulders left by ancient glaciers to the vibrant understory that changes with each passing season.
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Campsite details

AccessibilityThe campground includes accessible facilities, but detailed information about specific accessibility features is not provided.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious and well-maintained, with some specifically noted as large enough to accommodate tents or RVs.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary; some sites are well-spaced, while others are closer together, requiring additional measures like privacy screens for seclusion.
Total Campsites200 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites near restrooms and those with views are recommended. Gravel bases may make tent stakes challenging.
Best CampsitesUser reviews highlight sites such as 027, 166, and 012 as spacious, clean, and offering privacy.

Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Check-in time is noon.
Check-out
Check-out time is noon.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay of 14 nights allowed during any rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
  • Standard stay rules
  • number of guests per site not explicitly mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground is organized into loops with spacious and well-maintained sites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen for reservations May 15 - October 13 annually. Closed out of season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability not explicitly mentioned; reserved sites held until noon the day after arrival date.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations allowed anytime before scheduled arrival. $10 cancellation fee applies, along with loss of first night’s recreation use fee for late cancellations.

Amenities available

Showers
Potable water
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Camp Store

Activities you can enjoy

Dolly Copp Campground is a hub for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of activities within and near the site. It serves as a starting point for hikes into the Presidential and Carter-Moriah Ranges and provides opportunities for fishing, biking, and fall foliage viewing. Seasonal educational programs are available in July and August.
Hiking
Hiking is a prominent activity, with trails leading into the Presidential and Carter-Moriah Ranges. The Daniel Webster Scout Trail starts directly from the campground, providing access to the Great Gulf Wilderness and Mount Washington. Campers described the hikes as ranging in difficulty, with options for both short and long excursions.
Fishing
Anglers can fish for brook trout in the Peabody River and Culhane Brook, which pass through the campground.
Biking
Numerous biking trails are accessible within a short drive from the campground.
Wildlife viewing
The campground is home to diverse wildlife, including moose, white-tailed deer, black bears, and nearly 200 bird species. Campers have reported spotting species like the rare Bicknell's Thrush.
Cultural and Educational Programs
Educational programs are offered on weekends during July and August, providing family-friendly learning opportunities.
Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned, as the campground is closed from mid-October to mid-May.
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Campground rules

  • Pets are allowed
  • Campfires allowed but limited to designated areas. Firewood is available for purchase onsite.
  • Quiet hours mentioned but not strictly enforced, according to some reviews.

Hazards

General hazardsWildlife hazards include bears. Sudden weather changes pose risks such as exposure to cold and precipitation.

Weather forecast

45
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%

Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities

Humidity: 68%

Moderately humid conditions

Wind: 1.6 mph

Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities

Overcast

7 day forecast

Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo

Emergency Services

Emergency services in Gorham, NH, including hospitals and police stations.

Good to know

Peak season datesMay 15 - October 13 annually.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, though some reviews noted occasional issues, such as odor and the handling of garbage during dumpster emptying.
Proximity to water featuresPeabody River and Culhane Brook run through the campground, offering fishing opportunities.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include gravel bases being hard to stake tents, showers sometimes lacking hot water, no hand soap in bathrooms, stench from dumpster leaks, and occasional lack of enforcement of quiet hours.
HostHosts are generally helpful, though user reviews note inconsistency in responsiveness.

Campground Map

White Mountain National Forest, Dolly Copp Road
Driving directionsFrom Gorham, New Hampshire: Take State Route 16 south for 6 miles. Turn right onto Dolly Copp Road and travel 0.5 miles to the campground. From North Conway, New Hampshire: Take Highway 302 to Glen. Turn right onto State Route 16 north and follow for about 22 miles. Turn left onto Dolly Copp Road and travel 0.5 miles to the campground.
Road access involves paved State Route 16 and Dolly Copp Road. Seasonal closures and weather conditions may affect driving.
Nearby places
Gorham (6 miles, ~10 minutes), North Conway (22 miles, ~30 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Supplies available in nearby towns like Gorham and North Conway, including grocery stores, camping gear, and fuel.

Camper Reviews

4.6
68 reviews
Top-Rated
Top-Rated
Dolly Copp is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Dolly Copp Campground receives mixed reviews, with many praising the spacious sites, cleanliness of facilities, and helpful staff. However, some campers noted issues such as the lack of basic amenities like soap in the restrooms, expensive showers, and limited privacy at certain sites.
Review Summaries
Based on 68 reviews

What Campers Love

Many reviews highlight the campground's cleanliness, well-organized layout, and friendly staff. Campers appreciate the natural beauty and proximity to Mount Washington and other attractions.
Based on 68 reviews

Common Concerns

Common issues include the high cost of amenities like showers, lack of soap dispensers in restrooms, inconsistent enforcement of quiet hours, and occasional odors from garbage facilities.
Based on 68 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring plenty of quarters for showers. Consider bringing your own soap and hand sanitizer due to the lack of dispensers in bathrooms. Be prepared for limited cell service and pack privacy screens if...
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Based on 68 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is most popular in the summer months, with many visitors enjoying hiking and educational programs. Fall is noted for its spectacular foliage. However, weather can change rapidly due to...
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Based on 68 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The campground was clean, spacious, and clearly marked." "Spacious sites nicely distanced from each other." "Bring lots of quarters if you want to shower. $2.50 for 5 minutes." "The Peabody River...
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Based on 68 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site #146 in the RIVE loop was criticized for lack of privacy and proximity to dumpsters. Sites in the BIGM loop were praised for their spaciousness and proximity to hiking trails.
Based on 68 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility features are available, but detailed reviews specific to these features are lacking.
Based on 68 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

The campground is pet-friendly, with no notable complaints or issues raised by pet owners.
Based on 68 reviews

Last updated November 24, 2025
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