Zealand Campground
4.4023 reviewsNH Rte 302, Twin Mountain, NH
Zealand Campground
$18.00 - $24.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
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
The fee ranges from $18 per night according to some authoritative sources, while others state $24 per night per site. An extra vehicle fee of $5-$6 per vehicle per night applies.
About this campground
Tucked along the scenic NH Route 302, Zealand Campground offers an intimate escape with just 11 thoughtfully spaced sites that promise a return to camping's simple pleasures. Here, spacious grassy clearings invite you to pitch your tent beneath a canopy of hardwoods, while the gentle murmur of the Ammonoosuc River provides nature's soundtrack. This hidden gem attracts those who cherish authentic outdoor experiences over modern amenities—though the occasional whisper of passing traffic serves as a gentle reminder of civilization's proximity.
Zealand Campground is a primitive facility suitable for tent and combined camping. It does not offer RV-specific sites or luxury options like cabins or glamping.
Historical SignificanceWhile Zealand Campground may not boast historical monuments or interpretive trails, its significance lies in preserving the timeless tradition of simple forest camping that has drawn adventurers to these mountains for generations.
Weather and SeasonsFrom mid-May's awakening blooms through mid-October's fiery foliage finale, Zealand Campground embraces each season's unique personality. Summer brings warm days perfect for riverside relaxation and cool nights ideal for campfire stories. As autumn arrives, crisp air and changing leaves transform the campground into a photographer's dream, though evening temperatures remind you to pack that extra layer. Local weather patterns suggest this mountain region experiences dramatic winters with deep snow and arctic temperatures, making the campground's seasonal closure a natural rhythm of the landscape.
ElevationNestled within the embrace of the White Mountain National Forest, the campground rests at a comfortable elevation that offers the best of mountain camping without extreme altitude challenges. The surrounding terrain speaks to the region's mountainous character, creating a landscape that feels both accessible and adventurous.
Natural Features and SceneryThe Ammonoosuc River serves as Zealand's centerpiece, its waters carrying stories from the slopes of mighty Mt. Washington herself. Mature hardwood forests frame each campsite, their leafy architecture providing natural privacy and shelter. The combination of riverside serenity and forest sanctuary creates a landscape that visitors consistently describe as breathtaking—where morning mist dances above the water and evening light filters through the canopy in golden streams.
Geological RegionZealand Campground occupies a special niche within the White Mountain National Forest's diverse ecosystem, where the Ammonoosuc River has carved its patient path through ancient bedrock. This riparian wonderland showcases the delicate balance between water and forest, creating a lush corridor of hardwoods and meadow grasses that thrive in the river's nurturing presence. The geological story here is one of persistence and beauty, where mountain streams have sculpted a perfect pocket for outdoor enthusiasts to call home, if only for a few nights.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground has wheelchair-accessible vault toilets. However, the terrain and other facilities' accessibility were not detailed.
Sites SizeSites are described as large and grassy, suitable for tents and combined use. Parking aprons are gravel or paved and approximately the same size.
Sites PrivacySites are generally open or partially wooded, with limited privacy due to the small campground layout.
Total Campsites11 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites closer to the river provide better scenic views but may lack privacy. Loops farther from the road may have less noise from traffic.
Best CampsitesUser reviews do not identify specific sites as superior, but generally note the river-adjacent spots as desirable.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
No specific check-in times were provided.
Check-out
No specific check-out times were provided.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limited to 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum occupancy per site is 8 people.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground is organized into a single loop among hardwood trees with grassy tent sites.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground operates seasonally, opening mid-May and closing mid-October.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are not applicable as all sites are available on a first-come-first-served basis.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll 11 sites are exclusively first-come, first-served with no reservations allowed.
Cancellation PolicyReservations are not available; all sites are first-come-first-served.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Recreational opportunities at Zealand Campground include fishing for brook trout in the Ammonoosuc River and using it as a base for hiking. No organized activities or specialized facilities are offered.
Hiking
While there are no marked trails directly accessible from the campground, it is centrally located and serves as a base camp for hiking in the White Mountain National Forest.Fishing
Fishing is accessible, with brook trout mentioned as a popular catch in the Ammonoosuc River.Winter Activities
No winter activities are offered as the campground operates seasonally from mid-May to mid-October.Water Sports
Water sports are not available at this campground.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings. User reviews suggest cooking on fire is encouraged.
- Quiet hours are Enforced, though user reviews suggest inconsistent management of noise disturbances.
Hazards
General hazardsProximity to NH Rte 302 may expose campers to road noise. Wildlife precautions are recommended due to the natural forested environment.
Active alertsNone reported in source materials.
Weather forecast
66
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 62%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 5.4 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
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
Twin Mountain Fish and Wildlife Center (summer programs available), and Twin Mountain Police Department are nearby. Hospitals and advanced emergency services are not explicitly mentioned.
Good to know
Peak season datesLikely summer months, though specific date ranges for peak pricing are unavailable.
Trash and recyclingNo specific details about trash and recycling facilities were provided. The campground follows a 'pack it in, pack it out' policy.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to the Wild Ammonoosuc River, which offers opportunities for brook trout fishing and scenic views.
Common complaintsSeveral user reviews mention road noise from NH Rte 302 as a downside. Other complaints highlight inconsistent enforcement of rules by campground hosts.
HostThe campground hosts, mentioned in user reviews as Greg, Alan, Barbara, and DeeDee (season-dependent), are typically praised for their friendliness and local knowledge.
Campground Map
NH Rte 302, Twin Mountain, NH
Driving directionsIn Twin Mountain, NH, at the intersection of US Rts. 302 and 3, take Rt. 302 east 2.2 miles to Zealand Campground on right.
The campground is located directly off NH Rte 302, with accessible paved roads leading to the entrance. It is easy to access, though traffic noise from nearby State Rt. 3 has been noted by campers.Nearby places
Twin Mountain, NH (approx. 2 miles, about 5 minutes driving).
Nearby supplies
Nearest supplies for fuel, groceries, and camping essentials are likely found in Twin Mountain, NH, which is approximately 2 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.4
23 reviews
Zealand Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's simplicity and natural beauty, particularly its proximity to the Ammonoosuc River. Many appreciate the clean, spacious sites and the quiet ambiance, though proximity to Route 302 and associated road noise are frequently mentioned.
Review Summaries
Based on 23 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers frequently praised the large, grassy sites, cleanliness, and proximity to the Ammonoosuc River. The campground's peaceful ambiance and its suitability as a base for hiking were also noted.
Based on 23 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints include road noise from Route 302, lack of flush toilets and potable water, and occasional disturbances caused by other campers. Some users expressed dissatisfaction with the...
Based on 23 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Arrive early for the first-come, first-served sites and have a backup plan in case the campground is full. Many suggest using the campground as a base for hiking in the White Mountains.
Based on 23 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is open from mid-May to mid-October. Summer months are popular for fishing and hiking, while road noise may be more noticeable during peak travel periods.
Based on 23 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Great camping spot. I loved sitting down by the river. So peaceful.' - Jan Morris
2. 'Sweet little campground centrally located. Nothing fancy about this place - no bells, whistles, amenities -...
Based on 23 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Reviews suggest that all sites are spacious and close to the river, making them generally favorable. However, no specific site numbers are mentioned.
Based on 23 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility features, apart from the availability of wheelchair-accessible vault toilets.
Based on 23 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No user reviews specifically address experiences with pets or pet policies.
Based on 23 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025