Best Fall Camping Spots in New Hampshire for Unforgettable Views

Whether you prefer pitching your tent deep in the White Mountains or waking up beside a lake surrounded by glowing maples, New Hampshire offers some of the best camping experiences in the USA.

Here’s a look at the best fall camping spots in New Hampshire that guarantee unforgettable foliage views and cozy nights under the stars.

White Mountain National Forest – The Classic Fall Escape

If you want the ultimate New Hampshire fall experience, the White Mountain National Forest is the place to be.

The best part? You can camp in a range of settings—from drive-in campgrounds with easy amenities to remote backcountry sites for seasoned adventurers.

Popular spots like Lafayette Campground and Campton Campground give you direct access to hiking trails and scenic drives like the famous Kancamagus Highway.

Most campgrounds in the forest cost around $25–$35 per night, and reservations can be made on Recreation.gov.

Facilities vary: some have flush toilets and water access, while backcountry sites are more primitive.

What to do in fall:

• Hike to spots like Mount Lafayette or Mount Washington for sweeping foliage views.
• Take an evening to stargaze—this area is known for its dark skies.
• Drive the Kancamagus for one of the best foliage road trips in New England.

Nearby attractions: Don’t miss North Conway for fall shopping and the Conway Scenic Railroad, which runs foliage trains in October.

Pro Tip: Aim for the first two weeks of October for peak colors. Book campsites early since this region fills up fast during fall.

Franconia Notch State Park – Mountain Views & Waterfalls

Nestled in the heart of the White Mountains, Franconia Notch State Park is famous for its dramatic scenery.

The Lafayette Place Campground is the go-to here, perfect for both tents and RVs.

You’ll be just steps away from highlights like Flume Gorge, the Basin, and the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway, which gives a bird’s-eye view of the fall foliage.

Camping fees here average $35 per site, with facilities including restrooms, showers, and picnic tables. Reservations are strongly recommended during fall.

Fall Highlights:

• Hiking the Franconia Ridge Loop, one of the most scenic trails in the country.
• Visiting the Basin, a natural granite pothole framed by colorful leaves.
• Taking the Cannon Tramway for sweeping fall panoramas.

Nearby attractions: Echo Lake Beach and the New England Ski Museum are within the park.

Crawford Notch State Park – Quiet Wilderness Charm

If you’re looking to escape the crowds and experience a quieter fall camping trip, Crawford Notch State Park is your spot.

With over 5,000 acres of rugged wilderness, this park feels untouched compared to some of New Hampshire’s busier destinations.

The Dry River Campground is tucked in the middle of the notch, offering a peaceful base with easy access to hiking trails and waterfalls.

Campsites here cost about $25–$30 per night and provide picnic tables, fire rings, and restrooms.

Trails like Arethusa Falls and Mount Willard are especially stunning in autumn.

Nearby attractions: The historic Mount Washington Hotel is just a short drive away, perfect for a luxurious fall meal or photo stop.

Pro Tip: Head to the Willey House Historic Site for one of the best sunset views in the park.

Pawtuckaway State Park – Lakeside Colors & Family-Friendly Camping

For families or those new to camping, Pawtuckaway State Park is a fall favorite. The highlight here is the large, mirror-like Pawtuckaway Lake.

The main campground has plenty of space for tents, campers, and even cabins, making it a versatile choice.

Facilities include restrooms, showers, a boat launch, and even a small camp store where you can grab essentials like firewood and snacks. Sites usually range from $25–$35 per night.

Hiking trails lead to boulder fields and quiet viewpoints, while the lake is perfect for a fall paddle.

Why it’s great in fall:

• Family-friendly facilities with restrooms and showers.
• Kayaking and canoeing on the lake surrounded by foliage.
• Moderate hikes with stunning overlooks.

Nearby attractions: Deerfield Fairgrounds, home to New Hampshire’s oldest fair (early fall), is close by.

Umbagog Lake State Park – Remote & Scenic Foliage Getaway

Up north, straddling the Maine border, lies Umbagog Lake State Park—a true hidden gem for fall camping.

This destination is less crowded and offers both traditional campsites and remote “paddle-to” sites that you can only reach by canoe or kayak.

Sites cost $25–$40 per night, depending on location, and facilities include restrooms, picnic tables, and fire rings.

Remote paddle-in sites are primitive, so you’ll need to bring your own gear and supplies.

Nearby attractions: Dixville Notch, famous for its early presidential voting and striking fall scenery, is a short drive away.

Pro Tip: Because northern New Hampshire experiences foliage earlier, late September is the best time to camp here before the colors fade.

Monadnock State Park – Iconic Hike with Fall Views

Few places define New Hampshire like Mount Monadnock, one of the most climbed mountains in the world.

In autumn, the view from its 3,165-foot summit is simply breathtaking, with rolling hills covered in brilliant fall shades stretching for miles.

Camping is available at Monadnock State Park Campground, giving you direct access to trails. Fees are usually $25–$30 per night, and facilities include picnic tables, restrooms, and fire pits.

Nearby attractions: The charming town of Peterborough, with its bookstores, cafes, and fall festivals, is just a short drive away.

Planning Your Fall Camping Trip in New Hampshire

Before you pack your tent, here are a few essentials for a successful fall camping trip in the Granite State:

• Best time to visit: Late September to mid-October, with peak colors depending on elevation and location.
• Food & supplies: While some parks like Pawtuckaway have small stores, most campers stock up in nearby towns. Conway, Lincoln, and Gorham are great supply hubs.

Local Fall Festivals & Events to Pair with Camping

Camping in New Hampshire during autumn is even better when paired with local events. Popular options include:

• Sandwich Fair (early October) – a classic New England fair near the Lakes Region.
• NH Pumpkin Festival in Laconia – thousands of glowing pumpkins light up the night.
• Deerfield Fair – close to Pawtuckaway, perfect for families.

Regional Breakdown: Where to Camp in Fall

• Northern NH (Umbagog, Dixville Notch): Early foliage, remote and wild.
• Central NH (Franconia, Crawford, White Mountains): Peak colors in early to mid-October, best for mountain lovers.
• Southern NH (Monadnock, Pawtuckaway): Later foliage season, family-friendly and easier access from Boston.

Conclusion

Fall camping in New Hampshire is more than just an outdoor getaway—it’s a chance to sleep under some of the most spectacular foliage in the country.

From the vast wilderness of the White Mountains to peaceful lakeside retreats like Umbagog, each campground offers its own slice of autumn magic.

Read More: 8 Best Fall Hikes in New Hampshire for Stunning Foliage Views