Fall camping in New Hampshire is highly underrated. For one thing, it's the perfect way to admire New Hampshire's gorgeous foliage. For another, what could be cozier than snuggling up around a campfire and then sleeping in a warm sleeping bag as the leaves rustle around you? It's much more pleasant than sweating the night away in a tent in the height of summer. Plus, the crowds are much smaller. Here are a few spots to enjoy some of the best fall camping in New England. Be sure to call ahead as hours and dates of operation are subject to change, and amenities are very variable in the shoulder and off-season. Some of these parks will also let you camp outside the official season, as long as you don't mind roughing it.

1. Pawtuckaway State Park, Nottingham

Ready for a night or two away from it all in the woods? Looking for a campground that has it all – family-friendly beaches, canoe rentals, and plenty of trails? Look no further. Pawtuckaway State Park is the spot for you. We take camping seriously in New Hampshire and this campground does it right. In fact, this campground is a perennial favorite for families and anyone who wants great lake views and amazing hiking. Be sure to climb the fire tower for the best foliage views! They even have cabins you can book if it feels too chilly for a tent during a late-September camping trip.

2. Bear Brook State Park, Allenstown

The largest state park in New Hampshire, Bear Brook State Park has over 10,000 acres of forest, meaning that there's plenty of foliage to admire. With forty miles of trails, you're sure to stay busy!

3. Dry River Campground, Crawford Notch State Park

Crawford Notch State Park is a huge park, with 5,775 acres of beautiful outdoor area. There is endless enjoyment to be found in this park. Of course, you can hike on any of the many memorable trails - Crawford Notch has over 4,000 miles of trails so you know there will be something for everyone in your group. You can see waterfalls, bird watching, or simply relax and take in the amazing views of the mountains around you. Your favorite way to enjoy this NH State Park, of course, is camping - especially during the height of fall foliage! And we think this is one of the best campgrounds in the White Mountains.

4. Lafayette Place Campground, Franconia Notch State Park

Named the best campground in New Hampshire, Franconia Notch is the perfect location for fall exploring - you'll have some incredible hiking right outside your tent if you camp here. Though full-service camping ends on Columbus Day, the campground is open year-round.

5. Milan Hill State Park, Milan

Ever wanted to camp in a yurt? You can! For a warmer and comfier alternative to sleeping on the cold ground, book one of the yurts at Milan Hill State Park. They have fantastic views, as does the park's fire tower.

6. Gilson Pond Campground, Monadnock State Park

Mt. Monadnock is one of the most popular hikes in the world, and fall is the perfect time to do it. Gilson Pond Campground is ideally located if you want to climb the mountain and then relax around a campfire.

7. Greenfield State Park, Greenfield

An underrated gem, this 400-acre New Hampshire State Park offers plenty of ponds and lakeshores that look positively magical in the golden light of autumn!

Where have you found the best fall camping in New Hampshire? Share your faves in the comments.

Time is short! Looking for more things to do in fall in New Hampshire? Check out our list of day trips. But be sure to grab some gear off of our ultimate hiking packing checklist.

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/new-hampshire/fall-day-trips-nh/

Check out even more of our favorite fall foliage destinations in the US: