Camping & Cabins

Choose from the following to find a site:


   

The White Mountain National Forest offers a variety of camping experiences: from family-friendly developed campgrounds, to popular backcountry sites, to the solitude of a Wilderness setting.

Developed Campgrounds

  • All reservations must be arranged on Recreation.gov or by calling (877) 444-6777, the National Recreation Reservation Service.
  • Reservations can not be made by calling the forest.
  • First-come, first-served campgrounds are truly first-come, first-served.  The forest does not manage a site availability list.
  • All reservations require a minimum of 4-day advance reservation.  Less than 4 days?  Availability is based on first-come, first-served sites where available.
  • Campground maps and information: Developed Campground booklet.  
  • When planning your trip, view the  Recreation Conditions Report for the most current conditions forestwide.
  • White Mountain National Forest campgrounds are operated by VISTA Recreation, TM under a special use permit from the USDA Forest Service.  Check out their website for more information: Locations in White Mountain National Forest, New Hampshire | Vista Recreation (vista-rec.com).

Wilderness and Backcountry Camping (Dispersed)

When camping in the backcountry - camping and fires are prohibited:

  • Within 200 feet of trails and water bodies.
  • Within 1/4 mile of backcountry facilities (shelters, huts).
  • In the alpine zone - where trees are 8 feet or less.
  • Please consult the Forest's Backcountry Camping Rules
  • Be certain to view the Recreation Conditions Report for the most current trail and camping information.

Forest Protection Area - Know Before You Go

Forest Protection Area (FPA) are potentially overused or fragile areas of the Forest where use restrictions are applied. Restrictions may include limits on camping use, use of wood or charcoal fires, and limits on party size.  

Specific areas are identified below and should be referred to if planning a visit:

Campgrounds Open in Winter?

A couple of our campgrounds are open year-round.  These are plowed for access, but do not have any services found in summer.

Useful Websites

Recreation Areas

Recreation Activities