Basin Campground
4.4761 reviewsWHITE MOUNTAIN
Basin Campground
$30.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Nonelectric and Tent Only Nonelectric sites are priced at $30 per night during the May 22 - Oct 13 peak season. Fees do not include taxes or...
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Standard Site Fee$30.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
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$30.00
Share this campground
Recreation.gov
Provider603-447-5448whitemountaincampgrounds@explorus.com
About this campground
Tucked away in the heart of White Mountain National Forest, Basin Campground offers adventurers a true back-to-nature experience beside the tranquil waters of Basin Pond. This remote, rustic retreat beckons those seeking solitude and outdoor exploration, where days are filled with hiking forest trails, casting lines into pristine waters, and paddling across the mirror-like pond. When winter transforms the landscape into a snowy wonderland, nearby ski areas provide thrilling downhill adventures, making this a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Basin Campground offers rustic camping options suitable for tents and RVs. There is no glamping or cabin lodging available.
Historical SignificanceWhile Basin Campground may not boast grand historical monuments, its significance lies in preserving the timeless tradition of wilderness camping, offering modern adventurers the same pristine forests and waters that have drawn visitors to these mountains for generations.
Weather and SeasonsThe ever-changing New England weather creates a dynamic camping experience throughout the year. Summer brings ideal camping conditions with comfortable temperatures perfect for evening campfires and morning hikes. As autumn arrives, crisp air and vibrant foliage paint the landscape in brilliant hues. Winter blankets the forest in snow, transforming trails into cross-country routes and creating a peaceful frozen landscape. Spring's arrival brings renewal, though visitors should always pack layers and rain gear, as mountain weather can shift from sunshine to showers in moments.
ElevationNestled within the rolling terrain of the White Mountains, Basin Campground sits at a comfortable elevation that provides access to both lowland forests and nearby mountain trails, offering campers the best of both woodland and highland experiences.
Natural Features and ScenerySurrounded by a tapestry of mixed hardwood forest, the campground centers around the jewel-like 23-acre Basin Pond, where morning mists dance across the water and evening light filters through the canopy. This pristine ecosystem serves as home to iconic New England wildlife—majestic moose wade through the shallows at dawn, white-tailed deer graze in forest clearings, and black bears roam the deeper woods. Visitors consistently describe the atmosphere as profoundly peaceful, where the only sounds are rustling leaves, lapping water, and the calls of forest birds.
Geological RegionBasin Campground lies within the magnificent White Mountain National Forest, a vast wilderness spanning nearly 800,000 acres across New Hampshire and western Maine. This ancient landscape tells a story written in granite peaks and carved valleys, where crystalline mountain streams tumble over weathered rocks to feed pristine rivers below. The mixed hardwood forests create a living mosaic that changes with the seasons, while the rugged terrain provides habitat for resilient northern wildlife that has called these mountains home for millennia.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible restrooms are available, and the campground is relatively flat, aiding mobility.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious, well-spaced, and capable of accommodating large setups such as 30-ft RVs.
Sites PrivacyThe sites offer a good degree of privacy, with many being shaded and well-separated by trees.
Total Campsites20 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites near the pond for scenic views or next to the restrooms for convenience. Users note varying levels of privacy and terrain.
Best CampsitesSite recommendations include 002, 006, 010, and 012 for proximity to views or privacy. 'Site 15 was a nice secluded spot.'
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit of 14 nights within a rolling 30-day period. A two-night minimum reservation is required for weekends, and three nights for holiday weekends.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Two pets are permitted per site. Sites must be occupied by checkout time to hold reservations.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle loop design near Basin Pond. Sites include tent-only and standard options.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 22 to Oct 13 for reservations. Out-of-season camping prohibited.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityReserved sites are held until checkout time the day after arrival. Some sites may be released to other guests if not occupied.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled at any time before the scheduled arrival date. A $10 cancellation fee applies along with other penalties for late cancellations or no-shows. Refunds may include the recreation use fee minus any penalties.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Basin Campground provides opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, fishing, canoeing, and wildlife viewing. Its location near Basin Pond and the Basin Trail makes it a hub for outdoor recreation.
Hiking
The 4.5-mile Basin Trail begins directly at the campground, and there are many other hiking and mountain biking trails within a short driving distance. Reviewers have noted the lack of trail maps and signage, making planning ahead essential.Fishing
Trout fishing is available in Basin Pond. The calm waters make it an attractive spot for anglers.Swimming
Swimming in the 23-acre Basin Pond is a popular activity, appreciated for its pristine and scenic environment.Biking
Mountain biking opportunities are abundant in the surrounding area, though specific trail details are not provided.Boating
The calm waters of Basin Pond are ideal for canoeing and kayaking. One reviewer described the kayaking as 'great.'Wildlife viewing
The area is home to moose, white-tailed deer, black bears, and nearly 200 bird species, including the rare Bicknell's Thrush. Reviewers have found the wildlife viewing opportunities enriching.Winter Activities
The White Mountain area offers alpine and nordic skiing, along with other winter recreation opportunities like snowshoeing.Water Sports
Canoeing, kayaking, and fishing are popular water activities in Basin Pond.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires permitted in designated fire rings. Firewood available for purchase onsite, but reviews describe it as 'VERY pricey.'
- Quiet hours are Specified quiet hours enforced, particularly at 10 PM.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquitoes are reported as a significant nuisance during summer. User reviews frequently noted issues with bathroom facilities and uphill hikes to restrooms.
Active alertsNo explicit current warnings available.
Weather forecast
50
°F
Oct 10
Friday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 51%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 5.6 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Partly cloudy
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Unknown
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 22 - October 13
Trash and recyclingNo detailed information provided about trash and recycling facilities at this campground.
Proximity to water featuresShort distance from the 23-acre Basin Pond.
Common complaintsMosquito infestations during summer. Bathroom cleanliness and functionality cited as recurring issues: 'The bathrooms have always seemed “on the fritz” and tend to not flush very well.'
HostHosts Roy and Ann are frequently praised for their helpfulness and hospitality. 'Hosts are the best we have ever dealt with.'
Campground Map
WHITE MOUNTAIN
Driving directionsFrom Fryeburg, Maine, take Highway 113 north 15 miles to the campground.
The campground is accessible via Highway 113. User reviews note that roads can vary in condition, with some commenting on challenging terrain when arriving from certain directions. 'Roads to get there are not the easiest - we came from the east through varied fields and farms but the road got us there.'Nearby places
Fryeburg, Maine - 15 miles
Nearby supplies
Groceries, restaurants, and gas are available in Fryeburg, Maine, 15 miles away. 'Campers might enjoy a scenic day trip to the Presidential Range.'
Camper Reviews
4.5
61 reviews
Basin Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground is generally well-loved for its remote, quiet location and proximity to outdoor activities. However, maintenance issues with bathrooms and generator noise were common complaints.
Review Summaries
Based on 61 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praised the campground's scenic beauty, spacious and private sites, and friendly hosts. One reviewer noted, 'The views of the basin were unbelievable.' Another highlighted the 'clean and...
Based on 61 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common issues include bathroom maintenance ('No sink in men's bathroom, no soap or hand sanitizer'), lack of trail maps, and high bug activity ('The mosquitoes were vicious').
Based on 61 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring bug spray, arrive early to secure a good site, and plan hikes ahead due to the lack of trail maps. Avoid bringing firewood from outside the area to prevent invasive pests.
Based on 61 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer is popular for hiking, swimming, and family activities, but mosquito activity can be intense. Winter allows for nearby skiing, though the campground itself is seasonal.
Based on 61 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Nothing more peaceful than falling asleep to the sounds of the owls and loons.' 2. 'The pond was breathtaking but my least favorite camping experience due to mosquitoes.' 3. 'Hosts Roy and Ann...
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Site-Specific Reviews
1. Site 002: Spacious and private. 2. Site 006: Shady and close to trails. 3. Site 015: Large and capable of accommodating a 30-ft 5th wheel.
Based on 61 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible restrooms were appreciated, but uphill hikes to restrooms from pond-side sites were noted as challenging.
Based on 61 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
The campground allows pets, and one reviewer had a 'nice experience' camping with two poodles.
Based on 61 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025