6 Glorious Campgrounds In New Hampshire Where No Reservation Is Required

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, bookmark this list of campgrounds 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.

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. Learn more here.

Recreation.gov

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. Learn more

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. Learn more here.

Campground Concessionaires

This 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! Learn more here.

Yelp/Luke P.

Very close to Jigger Johnson Campground, this is another no 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. Learn more here.

Recreation.gov

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-in only. Learn more here.

We hope this list 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. The New Hampshire State Parks website has contact information and a great tool to let you see what’s still available on the next weekend, if you have a little more notice.

Happy camping!