Maybe you’re the kind of person who plans out each summer weekend months ahead, complete with campground reservations and dinner menus. Or, maybe you’re like most of us and you tend to wing it a little more. If that describes you, enjoy this list of sites for camping in New Hampshire with designated walk-in-only campsites for those weeks when you suddenly decide on a Friday or Saturday that you absolutely need to go camping, but don’t have a plan. Here are some of the best campgrounds in New Hampshire:

1. Jigger Johnson Campground, North Conway
03818, Conway, NH 03818, USA
TripAdvisor/SonnyReena
In the heart of the White Mountains National Forest, on the banks of Swift River, this campground is perfectly situated. They have 74 sites, none of which take reservations, and there are flush toilets on site. (Editor's Note: This campsite is temporarily closed)
2. Dolly Copp Campground, Gorham
Dolly Copp Campground Road, Dolly Copp Campground Rd, Martins Location, NH 03581, USA
Tina/Google
This huge campground nestled in the Presidentials is currently undergoing construction that has closed half of its 177 campsites for the season - but as a result, the remainder are available on a first-come, first-served basis, a great opportunity to enjoy a wonderful campground. It's rustic, but they do have flush toilets and a visitor's center.
3. Waterville Campground, Waterville Valley
03215, WATERVL VLY, NH 03215, USA
Yelp/Cathy D.
This rustic campsite has a few sites that can be reserved, but most of the 26 wooded sites are walk-in only. It's a perfect spot if you want to hike in the Waterville Valley.

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4. Waterville Campground, Lincoln
03215, WATERVL VLY, NH 03215, USA
Brent Walker/Google
Waterville Campground doesn't offer any reservations - it's all walk-in. Make sure you're up for a rustic stay - there's running water but not much else. There are often moose sightings in this area, so keep your eyes peeled!
5. Passaconaway Campground, North Conway
Albany, NH, USA
Yelp/Luke P.
Very close to Jigger Johnson Campground, this is another first-come, first-served option in the heart of the White Mountains. It's slightly more rustic than Jigger Johnson, with vault instead of flush toilets.
6. Sugarloaf I, Zealand Valley
Twin Mountain, Carroll, NH, USA
Kaisheng du/Google
This spot in Zealand Valley offers a perfect base for hikers. 17 of the 29 sites are available for reservation, but the rest are walk-ins only.

We hope this list of the best campgrounds in New Hampshire makes your summer bucket list a little easier to achieve! Of course, it never hurts to call ahead to make sure campgrounds aren’t already full – but a list of places that don’t require reservations is a great starting point. Please also note that walk-ins can be possible at New Hampshire state parks depending on availability – calling the site to ask is a great idea. New Hampshire State Parks will show the availability of these sites. If you’re looking for something more remote, take a look at these secluded New Hampshire campgrounds.

Happy camping!

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More to Explore

Natural Attractions in New Hampshire

William Suphan | April 14, 2023

What are some unique natural wonders in New Hampshire?

Unique natural wonders in New Hampshire include:

  • The Flume Gorge in Franconia Notch State Park. Locals flock to this place to explore this 200-million-year-old gorge that is 800 feet deep.
  • Arethusa Falls in the White Mountains. This is one of the tallest waterfalls in New Hampshire at 140 feet tall and is simply breathtaking. 
  • Emerald Pool in Chatham. The clear, green waters truly do look like the surface of a polished emerald and it’s a beautiful swimming hole.
  • Sculpture Rocks Natural Area in Groton. Otherworldly, curved, smooth rocks are surrounded by pristine pools in this mysterious natural area.

Learn more about unique natural wonders in New Hampshire. 

What are the most relaxing nature spots in New Hampshire?

The most relaxing nature spots in New Hampshire include:

  • Coliseum Falls. This is a collection of small waterfalls whose sounds will relax you and the beauty of the area will invigorate you.
  • White Mountains Overlook in Woodstock. If you’re driving in this area, make sure to stop here and take in the stunning view.
  • The North Hampton Seacoast. Sit near the rocky seashore and watch the waves wash over the beautiful rocks.
  • Ossipee Lake Natural Area. This is a lovely place to take a kayak and paddle along at your own pace.

Find out more about the most relaxing nature spots in New Hampshire. 

What are the most incredible natural attractions in New Hampshire?

The most incredible natural attractions in New Hampshire include:

  • Thompson Falls. This is a secret waterfall about a mile from Wildcat Mountain and it is utterly wondrous and well worth seeking out.
  • Jenness Stae Beach. This fantastic beach has fine sand, rushing waves, and stellar ocean views that you’ll want to soak in all day.
  • Pemigewasset Wilderness Area. This is 45,000 acres of rugged, remote wilderness and you won’t ever forget its natural beauty.
  • Lakes of the Clouds. This area looks much like the highlands of Scotland with its mossy stones and shimmering lakes at an elevation of 5,000 feet.

Discover more about the most incredible natural attractions in New Hampshire. 

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