Camping in New Hampshire is one of the most beloved activities in the state. One of the best ways to camp is along the shores of one of New Hampshire’s many rivers. These riverside campsites aren’t just perfect for swimming, kayaking, and fishing. They also attract wildlife, increasing your chances of seeing some of New Hampshire’s wildlife like moose or deer. From the far north to the White Mountains and the seacoast, here are 8 of the best spots for riverside camping in New Hampshire.

1. Crawford Notch Campground, Heart's Location
1138 US-302, Hart's Location, NH 03812, USA
Carrie-Lee Touhey/Google
Crawford Notch Campground is located right on the banks of one of the most popular rivers in New Hampshire - the Saco. This is a perfect base for a tubing or canoeing adventure that the whole family will love.

Get a closer look at some of the campsites here:

2. Lake Francis State Park, Pittsburg
439 River Rd, Pittsburg, NH 03592, USA
New Hampshire State Parks/facebook
Lake Francis State Park provides some of the most beautiful camping in the great north woods. The park surrounds the Connecticut Lakes, the headwaters of the Connecticut River. Canoes are available for rent, so you'll be able to explore all that beautiful wilderness.

Learn more about this lovely lake:

3. Glen Ellis Campground, Glen
Bartlett Place Road, Bartlett Pl Rd, Bartlett, NH 03838, USA
Broony/flickr
Glen Ellis Campground has some of the best riverside camping in the state, with the Saco River and the Ellis River running through the property. You'll love having a fire in one of the many sites with riverside fire pits.
4. Exeter Elms Family Campground, Exeter
190 Court St, Exeter, NH 03833, USA
Erica Dumont/Google
Exeter Elms has a mile of riverfront campsites on the Exeter River. You're so close you can tie your canoe in the backyard! With easy access to the seacoast, this riverside campground is perfect for your ocean adventure. (Editor’s Note: Unfortunately, this campground is now permanently closed)

Related Stories

Named The Best Campground In New Hampshire, Lafayette Place Needs To Be On Your Spring Bucket List

Named The Best Campground In New Hampshire, Lafayette Place Needs To Be On Your Spring Bucket List

 This Remote Lake And Campground Is One Of The Least Touristy Places In Northern New Hampshire

This Remote Lake And Campground Is One Of The Least Touristy Places In Northern New Hampshire

 This Pirate-Themed Campground In New Hampshire Makes For A Perfect Family Adventure

This Pirate-Themed Campground In New Hampshire Makes For A Perfect Family Adventure
5. Jigger Johnson Campground, Conway
03818, Conway, NH 03818, USA
Any Gregorowitz/flickr
Jigger Johnson Campground is right along the Kancamagus Highway, putting visitors in the heart of the White Mountains. The Swift River runs behind the campground, making it the perfect place for splashing and exploring. (Editor's Note: This campground is temporarily closed)
6. Lost River Valley Campground, North Woodstock
951 Lost River Rd, North Woodstock, NH 03262, USA
Henry S./Yelp
Lost River Valley Campground has dozens of waterfront sites, courtesy of the two rivers running through the property. On one side, Walker Brook runs along, while the other side is bordered by Lost River. For the most riverside experience reserve campsite 94, at the junction of the two rivers.

Get a quick overview of the beautiful campsites here:

7. River Meadow Campground, North Haverhill
3125 Dartmouth College Hwy, North Haverhill, NH 03774, USA
River Meadow Campground/facebook
River Meadow Campground is located in New Hampshire's extreme west, right on the Connecticut River. The River that separates New Hampshire from Vermont provides great kayaking and fishing opportunities.
8. Ashuelot River Campground, Swanzey
152 Pine St, Swanzey, NH 03446, USA
Ashuelot River Campground/facebook
This lovely campground just south of Keene offers riverside camping without having to travel too far. The Ashuelot River that borders the property is great for fishing, and even has sandy banks, perfecting for spending the day on.

Have you been to any of these spots for riverside camping in New Hampshire? Do you have any other favorite spots? Let us know in the comments! Looking for more great New Hampshire camping? Check out these places for waterfront camping in New Hampshire.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Natural Attractions in New Hampshire

William Suphan | April 15, 2023

What are some unique natural wonders in New Hampshire?

Unique natural wonders in New Hampshire include:

  • Emerald Pool in Chatham. The clear, green waters truly do look like the surface of a polished emerald and it’s a lovely swimming hole.
  • Sculpture Rocks Natural Area in Groton. Otherworldly, curved, smooth rocks are divided by pristine pools in this intriguing natural area.
  • The Flume Gorge in Franconia Notch State Park. Locals love to come here to wander in 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 the state at 140 feet tall and is simply awe-inspiring. 

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:

  • The North Hampton Seacoast. Sit near the rocky seashore and watch the waves course through all the beautiful rocks.
  • Ossipee Lake Natural Area. This is a wonderful place to take a kayak and paddle along at a leisurely pace.
  • Coliseum Falls. These are a series of small waterfalls whose sounds will soothe you and the beauty of the area will surprise you.
  • White Mountains Overlook in Woodstock. If you’re driving in this area, make sure to stop here and take in the absolutely gorgeous view.

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:

  • Pemigewasset Wilderness Area. This is 45,000 acres of rugged, remote wilderness and you won’t ever forget the views here.
  • Lakes of the Clouds. This area resembles the highlands of Scotland with mossy stones and lovely lakes at an elevation of 5,000 feet.
  • Thompson Falls. This is a hidden waterfall about a mile from Wildcat Mountain and it is simply gorgeous and well worth seeking out.
  • Jenness Stae Beach. This stunning beach has fine sand, wonderful waves, and magnificent ocean views that you’ll want to soak in all day.

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

Related Articles

Explore New Hampshire