Cold River
4.3723 reviewsWHITE MOUNTAIN
Cold River
$24.00 - $24.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$24.00
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
Fees are $24 per night during peak season (May 22 - October 13). Rates do not include any additional charges, taxes, or discounts.
About this campground
Tucked away in the heart of New Hampshire's White Mountain National Forest, Cold River Campground offers an authentic wilderness escape where simplicity meets natural beauty. This intimate, rustic retreat features a thoughtfully designed single-loop layout that preserves the forest's tranquil atmosphere while providing essential amenities including accessible restrooms and a charming hand-pumped water source. Adventure beckons just beyond your tent flap, with scenic hiking trails threading through ancient forests and the pristine waters of Basin Pond inviting anglers and paddlers to explore its peaceful shores.
Cold River Campground supports standard non-electric camping with sites organized around one loop. Options include tent camping, RV camping, and group camping.
Historical SignificanceCamp in the shadow of legends at Cold River, where the mighty White Mountains have captivated explorers and nature lovers for centuries. These ancient peaks, crowned by the famous Mount Washington—New England's highest summit—have witnessed countless stories of adventure, discovery, and human perseverance. The surrounding wilderness has shaped the character of the region, inspiring generations of visitors to seek solace and challenge among these storied heights.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the ever-changing moods of the White Mountains, where crisp, dry air carries the scent of pine and adventure. From May through October, the campground comes alive under warm sunshine and gentle mountain breezes, creating perfect conditions for outdoor exploration. As autumn approaches, moderate winds rustle through the canopy, while winter occasionally dusts the landscape with snow, transforming the forest into a quiet wonderland. Each season paints the wilderness in different hues, offering campers a unique perspective on this mountain sanctuary.
Elevationnull
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where towering pines mingle with vibrant hardwoods, creating a living cathedral of green that shifts with the seasons. The melodious babble of Evans Brook provides a natural soundtrack to your camping experience, while the mirror-like surface of 23-acre Basin Pond reflects the surrounding forest in perfect tranquility. This diverse ecosystem serves as a sanctuary for the North Country's most iconic wildlife—majestic moose may emerge from morning mists, white-tailed deer graze in forest clearings, and black bears roam the berry patches. Bird enthusiasts will delight in the symphony of over 200 avian species that call these woods home, from tiny warblers to soaring raptors.
Geological RegionSet within the magnificent White Mountain National Forest, Cold River Campground showcases nature's artistry through its diverse terrain of weathered peaks and verdant valleys. Here, crystal-clear mountain streams have carved their paths through rugged granite landscapes over millennia, while dense forests of mixed hardwoods and evergreen pines carpet the rolling hills. This geological wonderland represents millions of years of natural forces at work, creating the dramatic mountain scenery and pristine wilderness that defines New Hampshire's most treasured landscapes.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible restrooms are provided, and the campground layout around one loop may facilitate navigation for some visitors. However, no specific information on full ADA compliance is available.
Sites SizeThe campsites are described as spacious. "Well-spaced sites with plenty of room," one user noted.
Sites PrivacySites provide a high degree of privacy, with another camper stating, "Each campsite has privacy."
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid sites with rocky gravel for tent setups; campsite #012 offers privacy and good accessibility.
Best CampsitesCampsite #012 is highly rated for proximity to trails and scenic views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Null
Check-out
NOON
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit of 14 nights during any 30-day rolling period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Null
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of one loop with accessible restrooms and hand-pump water stations.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season is May 22 - October 13. Reservations start June 26.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in Availabilitynull
Cancellation PolicyCancellations are subject to a $10 fee and forfeiture of the first night's fee if made within one day of check-in. Modifications to reservations may incur a $10 change fee, depending on the adjustment.
Amenities available
Potable water
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Cold River Campground offers a range of activities suitable for nature lovers. Hiking trails, including the 4.5-mile Basin Trail, are easily accessible, and the nearby Basin Pond allows for fishing and canoeing. "Peaceful and quiet campground nearby many trailheads in Evans Notch," one user said. Wildlife viewing is another highlight, with almost 200 bird species, moose, deer, and black bears present in the area. Some visitors noted the proximity to excellent hiking: "Close to good hiking trails," and "Walking distance to Basin Pond for swimming and to several trailheads."
Hiking
Numerous hiking trails are located nearby, including the 4.5-mile Basin Trail. Trails range in difficulty and offer access to the Caribou Speckled Mountain Wilderness. Visitors have praised the proximity to trailheads: "Great location for hikes in the Evans Notch area."Fishing
Fishing is available at Basin Pond, which is a short distance away from the campground. The pond is known for trout fishing.Swimming
Swimming is possible at Basin Pond; one reviewer mentioned it as a highlight of the area, saying the pond is within walking distance.Biking
Mountain biking opportunities are available within a short drive, including trails in the Caribou Speckled Mountain Wilderness.Boating
Basin Pond supports canoeing. Visitors have noted the calm waters are ideal for this activity.Wildlife viewing
The area is home to wildlife such as moose, white-tailed deer, and black bears, along with nearly 200 bird species, including the rare Bicknell's Thrush.Winter Activities
The nearby White Mountain National Forest offers winter recreation like skiing and snowshoeing, though these are not specific to the campground.Water Sports
Opportunities for canoeing and possibly kayaking are available at Basin Pond.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed, subject to local regulations.
- Quiet hours are null
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include bears. Campers must store food in approved containers or locked vehicles.
Active alertsWater pump was reported broken on several occasions, requiring trips to nearby Basin Campground for potable water.
Weather forecast
72
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 54%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 3.3 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
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
null
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 22 - October 13
Trash and recyclingThere is no specific information about trash and recycling facilities at the campground.
Proximity to water featuresBasin Pond is nearby, offering opportunities for fishing and canoeing.
Common complaintsComplaints include difficulties setting up tents on rocky gravel areas and occasional issues with water availability.
HostHost Kelly is praised for being accommodating and friendly.
Campground Map
WHITE MOUNTAIN
Driving directionsFrom Fryeburg, Maine, take Highway 113 north 15 miles to the campground.
Driving access is straightforward along Highway 113, suitable for vehicles. No specific road closure or terrain challenges are mentioned.Nearby places
Fryeburg, ME (15 miles)
Gilead, ME
Stow, ME
Nearby supplies
Groceries, restaurants, and gas are available in Fryeburg, Gilead, and Stow, Maine.
Camper Reviews
4.4
23 reviews
Cold River is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, Cold River Campground receives positive reviews for its quiet, rustic, and secluded setting. Many visitors appreciate the proximity to hiking trails and Basin Pond, though some noted issues with campsite surfaces and water availability.
Review Summaries
Based on 23 reviews
What Campers Love
Visitors consistently praise the campground's peaceful atmosphere, spacious sites, and proximity to trails. "Such a quiet and peaceful place," said one user. Others noted that the sites are...
Based on 23 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Frequent complaints include the gravel and rocks at tent sites that make setup difficult, the lack of running water at times, and the absence of amenities like showers. One user said, "Each site is...
Based on 23 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring extra water in case the pump isn't operational, and consider bringing a mallet or other tools to handle the gravelly tent sites. Visitors also recommend using the campground as a base for...
Based on 23 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is most popular during the summer and early fall, with users commenting on the area's beauty and accessibility to outdoor activities during these times. Winter reviews are limited but...
Based on 23 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Great little campground. Walking distance to Basin Pond for swimming and to several trailheads." "The campsites have large stones where you are allowed to set up your tent." "Nice sites, restrooms...
Based on 23 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 012 is praised for being spacious and close to trails. Site 014 is noted for having a grassy area that cannot be used for tents, forcing campers to use the gravel area.
Based on 23 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific accessibility-related user reviews are available.
Based on 23 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and no significant complaints or issues related to pets were mentioned in reviews.
Based on 23 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025