Crawford Notch Campground

crawford notch campground, crawford notch scenic parking area

For those of us living in New Hampshire, the White Mountains are more than just a scenic backdrop; they are a playground, a sanctuary, and a defining part of our identity. When the urge to escape the everyday hustle and immerse ourselves in nature calls, a true local favorite stands out: Crawford Notch Campground in Hart's Location. This isn't your average campground; it's a place where the wild beauty of the Whites meets genuine hospitality, offering an authentic and unforgettable outdoor experience that keeps families coming back year after year.

Crawford Notch Campground is renowned for its stunning natural setting, nestled along the banks of the Saco River within the awe-inspiring Crawford Notch. It’s a destination praised by long-time visitors for its clean, respectful atmosphere and the chance to truly disconnect. Here, you won't find bustling cell service or Wi-Fi at your site, which, as many happy campers attest, is precisely the point. It’s an invitation to put down the devices, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and reconnect with nature and loved ones. With a variety of site options, from secluded tent spots to cabins, and a welcoming team of owners, Crawford Notch Campground offers a quintessential New Hampshire camping adventure that resonates deeply with local outdoor enthusiasts.

Crawford Notch Campground is ideally situated at 1138 US-302, Hart's Location, NH 03812, USA. This puts it right in the heart of the magnificent White Mountain National Forest, within the famous Crawford Notch. The campground boasts 100 wooded acres, featuring approximately one mile of frontage on New Hampshire's scenic Saco River. This central location offers direct access to the countless hiking trails, breathtaking vistas, and natural wonders that define this iconic region.

For New Hampshire residents, accessing the campground is straightforward via US Route 302, a major roadway through the White Mountains. While convenient, it’s worth noting, as highlighted by a reviewer, that cell service is limited at the campground itself, requiring a drive a few miles down the road for connectivity. This "digital detox" aspect is often seen as a highlight for those seeking to truly unplug. The campground’s position makes it an excellent basecamp for exploring popular nearby attractions, from the legendary Mount Washington to various ski resorts and charming mountain towns, all while enjoying the serene beauty of Hart's Location.

• Diverse Campsite Options: The campground offers a variety of sites to cater to different camping preferences. These include secluded wooded tent sites, sites for pop-up campers and RVs (with some offering hookups for small RVs), and rustic log camping cabins and yurts. Each site generally includes a picnic table and a fire-ring or stone fireplace.

• Modern Bathhouses: Crawford Notch Campground provides clean and modern bathhouses with metered hot showers, ensuring comfort and convenience for all campers.

• General Store: A well-stocked on-site general store is available, offering essentials, ice, firewood (note: can be expensive but dry, $10 a bundle as per a review), groceries, snacks, sandwiches, beer, wine, and coffee. It also features Crawford Notch apparel, camping/hiking gear, gifts, and locally made products.

• Dump Station: A dump station is provided for RV campers.

• Laundry Facilities: For longer stays or refreshing your gear, laundry facilities are available.

• Dishwashing Station: A communal dishwashing station is often available, making cleanup easier.

• Pet-Friendly Policy: Pets are welcome at the campground but must be leashed and attended at all times. They are allowed on campsites, roads, and trails but not in buildings or designated swimming holes.

• On-Site Hiking/Biking Trails: The campground boasts approximately 60 acres of private trails for hiking and biking, allowing for immediate outdoor exploration.

• Saco River Frontage: With about a mile of frontage on the Saco River, campers have direct access to the river for swimming, wading, tubing, and fishing. The soothing sounds of the river are a consistent highlight for visitors.

• Authentic White Mountains Experience: The campground's natural and wooded setting, surrounded by the 800,000-acre White Mountain National Forest, provides an immersive experience in the region's unspoiled wilderness and majestic mountains.

• Disconnect and Recharge: A key feature, and often a major draw, is the limited to non-existent phone service and lack of Wi-Fi. This encourages campers to truly disconnect from digital distractions and reconnect with nature and their companions.

• Friendly Ownership and Staff: Recent reviews indicate new owners who are described as "pleasant" and "fine," contrasting positively with previous management. The overall staff attitude contributes to a welcoming atmosphere.

• Secluded and Clean Sites: Campers frequently praise the cleanliness and well-maintained nature of the sites, with many noting their spaciousness and secluded feel amidst the trees.

• Pet-Friendly Environment: The welcoming policy for dogs, combined with direct access to trails and the river, makes it an ideal destination for New Hampshire families who want to bring their furry friends along.

• Proximity to Area Attractions: Despite its secluded feel, the campground is centrally located to popular White Mountain attractions like the Mt. Washington Cog Railway, Conway Scenic Railway, Story Land, Bretton Woods, and various ski resorts, offering a wide range of activities beyond camping.

Specific, ongoing promotional offers for Crawford Notch Campground are not publicly detailed in the provided information. However, as a privately owned and family-operated campground, they often offer competitive rates for their various site types (tent, RV, cabins, yurts). The inherent value comes from their prime location in the White Mountains, the quality of their facilities, and the unique opportunity to truly disconnect in nature.

It is always advisable for New Hampshire locals planning a visit to check the campground's official website or call them directly at (603) 374-2779 to inquire about any current specials, multi-night discounts, or seasonal packages that might be available. While reviews mention the cost of firewood, the overall experience and prime location in such a sought-after area make it a worthwhile investment for a memorable outdoor adventure.

Address: 1138 US-302, Hart's Location, NH 03812, USA

Phone: (603) 374-2779

Mobile Phone: +1 603-374-2779

For those of us who cherish living in New Hampshire, Crawford Notch Campground is an ideal destination that truly caters to the local love for authentic outdoor experiences. Its prime location in the heart of Crawford Notch, directly on the Saco River, offers immediate access to the kind of natural beauty and recreational opportunities that define our state. This isn't a place for those who need constant digital connection; it’s a haven for those who actively seek to unplug and immerse themselves in the tranquility of the White Mountains.

The variety of accommodations, from secluded tent sites that allow you to truly rough it, to comfortable cabins and yurts, means there’s an option for every type of camper, whether you’re a seasoned outdoorsperson or introducing your family to the joys of camping. The "clean sites" and "respectful other campers" consistently mentioned in reviews highlight a community spirit that resonates with New Hampshire’s values. Plus, the welcoming attitude towards dogs means your furry family members can join in the adventure, exploring the numerous pet-friendly trails. While the firewood might be a little pricier, the quality and convenience, along with the overall exceptional setting, make it a minor consideration for the unparalleled experience offered. Crawford Notch Campground is more than just a place to stay; it’s a chance for New Hampshire locals to reconnect with the natural splendor of their home state, create lasting family memories, and enjoy a truly refreshing escape into the wilderness.

Crawford Notch Campground

1138 US-302, Hart's Location, NH 03812, USA