Covered Bridge
4.5287 reviewsCOVERED BRIDGE
Covered Bridge
$30.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The nightly fee for both Standard Nonelectric and Tent Only Nonelectric sites is $30 during the peak season (May 22 - October 13).
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
Provider603-447-2166whitemountaincampgrounds@explorus.com
About this campground
Deep in the heart of White Mountain National Forest, where towering hardwoods create a natural cathedral along the legendary Kancamagus Highway, Covered Bridge Campground awaits your arrival. This woodland sanctuary invites you to unplug and reconnect with nature, offering generously spaced sites that serve as your basecamp for endless adventures. Whether you're seeking the meditative rush of Swift River's crystal waters or the challenge of nearby mountain trails, this forest retreat delivers the authentic New England camping experience you've been dreaming of.
Covered Bridge Campground accommodates a range of camping styles, including tent camping and primitive setups. It is known for its natural, forested setting, which appeals to campers looking for a rustic experience.
Weather and SeasonsFrom late May through mid-October, Covered Bridge transforms with the seasons, each offering its own magic. Summer brings warm, languid days perfect for river dips and shaded hikes, though the mountain humidity reminds you you're in living, breathing forest. But it's autumn that truly steals the show—when temperatures crisp up and the surrounding hardwoods explode into a painter's palette of golds, crimsons, and burnt oranges, creating one of New England's most spectacular leaf-peeping destinations.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to the gentle murmur of Swift River threading through ancient hardwoods, where centuries-old trees stand as silent sentinels over your campsite. This is camping at its most authentic—surrounded by the White Mountains' pristine forests, where crystal-clear mountain streams carve their way through a landscape that harbors some of the Northeast's most majestic peaks. Keep your camera ready: you're sharing this wilderness with magnificent moose, graceful white-tailed deer, and the occasional black bear, while overhead, the rare and enchanting song of Bicknell's Thrush might grace the early morning air.
Geological RegionCovered Bridge Campground sits within New Hampshire's crown jewel—the White Mountain National Forest, where nature has crafted a masterpiece of pristine forests, crystalline streams, and the Northeast's most commanding peaks. This remarkable landscape seamlessly blends dense hardwood groves with diverse ecosystems that support an incredible array of wildlife, creating a living tapestry that changes with every season and rewards every exploration.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible vault restrooms are provided, and the campground is described as being organized into two loops, though no specific details about other accessibility features are provided.
Sites SizeSites are described as large and spacious. One reviewer mentioned, "Huge space for the site," while another stated, "The sites were huge and spaced apart."
Sites PrivacyThe sites offer a good amount of privacy, as noted by multiple users. For example, one review described them as "large, shaded campsites spaced relatively far apart," and another mentioned, "You don't feel like you're right on top of other campers."
Total Campsites50 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites along the Swift River are recommended for their scenic beauty and proximity to water. Sites further from the vault toilets may offer a quieter experience.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time begins at 2 PM.
Check-out
Check-out time is 12 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum of 14 nights during any rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of two vehicles per site, with additional fees for a third vehicle if space allows.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is organized into two loops with spacious, level sites that are well-spaced for privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 22 to October 13 for reservations. Closed during the off-season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online or through their mobile app.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites may be available on a first-come, first-served basis, though availability can be limited during peak times.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made prior to the arrival date are subject to a $10 fee. Cancellations on the arrival date or no-shows forfeit the first night's fee. For detailed rules, ‘My Reservations’ on the Recreation.gov platform can be used.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, biking, and picnicking. Its proximity to attractions like the Swift River and Boulder Loop Trail makes it a hub for outdoor enthusiasts.
Hiking
The Boulder Loop Trail is a 3-mile hike that is highly recommended by campers. One review noted it as a "nice hike nearby, not difficult." Other trails and access to the Swift River add to the hiking appeal.Fishing
Fishing is available in the Swift River, with brook trout being a popular catch during the summer months. This activity is frequently mentioned as a highlight.Swimming
The Swift River offers excellent opportunities for wading and swimming. One camper described it as "a great place to cool off," and another noted the "beautiful streams nearby."Biking
Biking is a popular activity, with one reviewer mentioning, "We stayed the night and rode our bikes on the amazing roads in the morning."Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities include moose, white-tailed deer, and black bears. The area is also home to 200 bird species, including the rare Bicknell's Thrush.Winter Activities
The White Mountains region offers winter recreation opportunities, including alpine and nordic skiing, but these are not directly tied to the campground.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding are not mentioned as activities associated with the campground.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire pits. Visitors are required to purchase firewood on-site to prevent the spread of invasive species.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 7 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential wildlife encounters with bears and moose. Visitors are advised to store food properly. Rugged trails and changing weather conditions may require precautions.
Weather forecast
48
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 53%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 2.1 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
7 day forecast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest hospital: Memorial Hospital in North Conway (approximately 8 miles). Closest police station: Conway Police Department (6 miles).
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 22 - October 13.
Trash and recyclingTrash dumpsters are available, although one reviewer noted that the dumpster was "close to being full and very smelly." Recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located near the Swift River, which is popular for wading, fishing, and cooling off during the summer.
Common complaintsSeveral user reviews mention issues such as generator noise, lack of showers, and poorly maintained vault toilets. "The road through the campground is falling apart and needs to be fixed."
HostHosts are frequently described as attentive, friendly, and helpful. "The campground hosts are wonderful - very friendly and helpful."
Campground Map
COVERED BRIDGE
Driving directionsFrom Conway, New Hampshire: Take Kancamagus Highway (State Route 112), 6 miles west, then turn on Dugway Road and proceed into the campground. Vehicles 7'9" or taller are unable to pass through due to height restriction for the covered bridge and must use an alternate route: At traffic light in Conway Village go north on Washington Street, which becomes West Side Road. Proceed approximately 1 mile to Passaconaway Road. Turn west on Passaconaway road and follow for 5 miles to the campground.
The campground is accessed via the Kancamagus Highway (State Route 112), a well-maintained scenic byway. However, vehicles taller than 7'9" must use an alternate route due to the height restriction of the covered bridge.Nearby places
Conway (6 miles), North Conway (approximately 8-10 miles), Lincoln (26.5 miles via Kancamagus Highway).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, fuel, and other essentials are available in Conway (6 miles away). North Conway offers additional options for dining, shopping, and supplies.
Camper Reviews
4.5
87 reviews
Covered Bridge is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Covered Bridge Campground is widely praised for its natural beauty, spacious sites, and friendly hosts. However, some users mention issues such as generator noise, limited rules communication, and occasional maintenance concerns.
Review Summaries
Based on 87 reviews
What Campers Love
Common highlights include the spacious and private campsites, the helpful and friendly campground hosts, and the proximity to hiking trails and the Swift River. Many campers appreciate the quiet and...
Based on 87 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include generator noise disrupting the quiet atmosphere, the lack of showers, poorly maintained vault toilets, and inconsistent enforcement of rules.
Based on 87 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Arrive prepared to use vault toilets and bring hand sanitizer as there is no running water. Purchase firewood on-site to comply with forest regulations. Check height restrictions for the covered...
Based on 87 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Peak season (summer and early fall) is highlighted for its accessibility to outdoor activities and scenic beauty. Campers note that the campground is quieter in late fall, but some amenities like...
Based on 87 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. "The sites are large, shaded, and spaced relatively far apart." 2. "The Boulder Loop trail is a short walk from the campground and offers great vistas." 3. "The hosts are friendly and helpful;...
Based on 87 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites 037 and 031 are noted for their large size and proximity to water. Site 017 is praised for its quiet and clean environment. Site 033 receives compliments for privacy and peacefulness.
Based on 87 reviewsAccessibility Features
Vault restrooms are described as accessible, but no additional details about accessibility features are provided in the reviews.
Based on 87 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and most reviews do not mention issues with bringing pets. However, one review highlighted concerns about other campers' control over their dogs.
Based on 87 reviewsLast updated November 24, 2025
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