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 tend to wing it a little more. If that describes you, enjoy this list of sites for some of the best New Hampshire campgrounds that have 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
In the heart of the White Mountains National Forest, on the banks of Swift River, this campground is perfectly situated. They have 75 sites, none of which take reservations, and there are flush toilets on site.
2. Dolly Copp Campground, Gorham
This huge campground nestled in the Presidentials has recently undergone construction. During that time, the campsites operated on a first-come, first-serve basis. While reservations are now offered for the camping season, there's always the possibility that one of the 177 sites will be open to you for that last-minute campout! It's rustic, but they do have flush toilets and a visitor's center.
3. Waterville Campground, Waterville Valley
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.
4. Waterville Campground, Lincoln
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
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
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 camping 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 camping reservations in New Hampshire 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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