Campton Campground
WHITE MOUNTAIN
Campton Campground
$30.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard nonelectric and tent-only sites cost $30 per night during peak season. Seasonal variations and discounts may apply.
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 Dot Gov
Provider603-536-6100whitemountaincampgrounds@explorus.com
About this campground
Nestled at the southern gateway to the White Mountain National Forest, Campton Campground welcomes adventurers with its expansive facilities and family-friendly atmosphere. This well-appointed basecamp combines the rugged beauty of New Hampshire's wilderness with modern comforts, including refreshing hot showers and clean flush toilets, making it an ideal launching point for your mountain adventures.
Campton Campground supports a mix of camping styles, including tent and RV camping. The variety of site options caters to different preferences, although group camping, cabins, and glamping are not available.
Historical SignificanceStep into a landscape steeped in outdoor heritage, where generations of hikers have traced paths through these ancient mountains. The campground serves as a portal to the legendary Appalachian Trail, connecting you to a hiking tradition that spans centuries. These peaks have witnessed the evolution of American mountaineering, from early explorers to modern adventurers seeking solace in the wilderness.
Weather and SeasonsSummer brings warm, sun-dappled days perfect for hiking and swimming, while autumn transforms the surrounding forest into a tapestry of brilliant reds and golds. As winter blankets the landscape in pristine snow, the campground area becomes a wonderland for snow enthusiasts, though camping facilities close for the season. Spring arrives with rushing streams and wildflower blooms, signaling nature's renewal.
ElevationPositioned at a comfortable elevation that offers easy access to both valley attractions and mountain adventures, the campground provides a perfect balance for those seeking to explore the vertical diversity of the White Mountains.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering white pines and majestic northern hardwoods create a natural cathedral overhead, their branches filtering sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. The pristine 30-acre Campton Pond mirrors the sky and surrounding peaks, offering tranquil paddling and fishing opportunities. The melodic Mad River winds nearby, its crystal-clear waters providing a soundtrack to your camping experience and countless spots for refreshing dips on warm days.
Geological RegionImmerse yourself in the dramatic geological story of the White Mountain National Forest, where ancient granite peaks rise from valleys carved by glaciers millennia ago. This remarkable landscape showcases nature's artistry through dense forests of white pine and northern hardwoods, crystalline mountain streams, and hidden ponds that dot the terrain like jewels. The campground sits within this natural wonderland, where every trail leads to discoveries shaped by millions of years of geological forces.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campgroundβs accessibility features are not explicitly detailed in the sources. Restrooms and water spigots are within walking distance of campsites, but no accessibility-specific details are provided.
Sites SizeThe campsites are reported to range from medium to large, with several reviews highlighting their spaciousness.
Sites PrivacyCampsites are separated by trees, providing a buffer for privacy. However, some reviews note that sites are still close enough to hear neighboring campers.
Total Campsites58 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites farther from the road to minimize noise. Larger sites are available for groups.
Best CampsitesSite 52 is recommended for privacy. Avoid site 51 due to foot traffic.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Reserved sites must be occupied by noon on the day following arrival.
Check-out
Check-out time is noon.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Unspecified
Groups
Group camping sites are not available at Campton Campground.
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 evenly spaced campsites that include wooded buffers.
Open and Closed SeasonPeak season runs from May 22 to October 13. Out-of-season bookings are not available.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online, app, or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites may be available on a walk-up basis, but no specific numbers or patterns are provided.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled online or through the contact center before the check-in date. Late cancellations incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's fee.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Campton Campground offers opportunities for hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and seasonal interpretive programs. Proximity to the White Mountains allows campers to explore a variety of recreational activities, including mountain biking and casual walks. The nearby Mad River and Campton Pond support fishing, while nature programs in the summer months add an educational touch.
Hiking
The campground is near many hiking trails in the White Mountain National Forest, including sections of the Appalachian Trail. While no specific trails are directly accessible from the campground, many are within a short drive.Fishing
Fishing is available in the nearby Mad River and Campton Pond. Anglers can expect species such as brook trout, pickerel, brown bullhead, and yellow perch. No power boats are allowed on the pond.Biking
Mountain biking trails are accessible within a short drive from the campground. Specific trail details are not provided.Wildlife viewing
The White Mountains are home to diverse wildlife, including moose, white-tailed deer, black bears, and nearly 200 bird species such as the rare Bicknell's Thrush.Cultural and Educational Programs
Nature programs are hosted within the campground on Saturday nights during July and August, providing family-friendly educational opportunities.Winter Activities
The campground itself does not offer winter recreation, although the general White Mountains area provides cross-country skiing and other winter sports.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not mentioned in the provided materials.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires allowed in designated fire pits. Firewood must be sourced locally to prevent invasive species.
- Quiet hours are officially from 10 PM onward.
Hazards
General hazardsPresence of mosquitoes and potential bear sightings. Road noise may be noticeable in certain areas.
Active alertsNo active alerts provided.
Weather forecast
41
Β°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 67%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 1.8 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
7 day forecast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest emergency services are available in Campton, including police, fire services, and a small medical clinic. For more advanced medical care, Plymouth (approximately 7 miles away) offers hospitals and urgent care centers.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 22 - October 13 annually.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not explicitly described in the sources. Visitors are advised to manage waste responsibly and avoid leaving food or waste outside due to wildlife concerns.
Proximity to water featuresCampton Pond and Mad River are nearby for fishing and swimming.
Common complaintsMultiple reviews mention rude camp hosts, unsatisfactory cleanliness of bathrooms, lack of hand soap, and expensive showers.
HostMixed reviews on the hosts' friendliness. Some guests found them helpful; others reported negative interactions.
Campground Map
WHITE MOUNTAIN
Driving directionsFrom Highway 93 in central New Hampshire, take exit 28 and follow Highway 49 (Mad River Road) east for 2 miles.
The campground is conveniently located near U.S. Highway 93 and is easily accessible. Road access is paved but narrow in some areas, particularly within the campground loops. Seasonal weather conditions may require cautious driving.Nearby places
Campton (2 miles), Lincoln (approx. 10 miles)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies available in Lincoln (approx. 10 miles), including groceries, camping gear, and fuel.
Camper Reviews
4.0
66 reviews
Campton Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
Campton Campground receives mixed reviews. Positive feedback highlights its natural beauty, convenient location, and clean facilities. However, issues such as road noise, strict or unfriendly staff, and lack of certain amenities (e.g., soap in restrooms) are frequently raised.
Review Summaries
Based on 66 reviews
What Campers Love
Guests have praised the campground for its spacious and shaded sites, clean restrooms, and convenient location near hiking trails and activities. One reviewer mentioned, "The whole campground is in...
Based on 66 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Negative feedback includes complaints about rude or overly strict staff, the high cost of showers ($2.50 for 5 minutes), road noise, and lack of soap in the restrooms. Some visitors noted that the...
Based on 66 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing quarters for the showers, bug spray for protection against mosquitoes, and firewood from external sources. Campers also suggest choosing sites farther from the road for a...
Based on 66 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season, with nature programs and family-friendly activities available. However, mosquitoes can be a significant nuisance during warm months. The fall may offer a quieter...
Based on 66 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. "The campground is simple and basic with a pleasant, wooded atmosphere."
2. "Bring bug spray, the mosquitos were abundant and aggressive."
3. "Hosts were rude and told us to move our tent for...
Based on 66 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 51 received negative feedback due to a walkway leading through it, causing nighttime disturbances. Site 42 is noted for being difficult to access for RVs due to narrow roads and trees...
Based on 66 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility challenges faced by campers with disabilities.
Based on 66 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
The campground is dog-friendly, but there were no reviews detailing pet-specific amenities or experiences.
Based on 66 reviewsLast updated November 24, 2025
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