Northern Waters Base Camp

For those of us in New Hampshire who truly cherish authentic outdoor experiences, finding a campground that offers both a genuine connection to nature and convenient access to adventure is key. That’s where Northern Waters Base Camp comes in. Located in the heart of Errol, NH, right on the banks of the mighty Androscoggin River, this campground provides a down-to-earth, primitive camping experience that has been a favorite for nearly fifty years. It's more than just a place to pitch a tent; it's a gateway to the stunning Great North Woods, offering unparalleled access to paddling, fishing, and exploring.

Northern Waters Base Camp serves as an ideal launchpad for all your outdoor pursuits. Whether you're an experienced kayaker, a casual canoeist, or simply looking for a quiet spot to enjoy the riverside, this base camp caters to those who appreciate a less-developed, more immersive natural setting. It’s a no-frills, high-adventure kind of place, perfectly suited for New Hampshire residents eager to embrace the wild beauty that defines our state.

You'll find Northern Waters Base Camp conveniently situated at 29 Upton Rd, Errol, NH 03579, USA. This prime location places it right in downtown Errol, New Hampshire, yet it still offers that coveted riverside tranquility. Specifically, the campground is nestled right next to the Androscoggin Rapids, perfectly positioned between the local dam and the bridge – making it easily identifiable and accessible.

Errol itself is a small but vibrant town in the Great North Woods, known as the headwaters of the Androscoggin River and not far from the Canadian border. For New Hampshire locals, reaching Northern Waters Base Camp is a scenic drive through the picturesque northern part of the state. While it offers a sense of escape, it's not so remote that it becomes a logistical challenge. Its location right in town means that while you're enjoying a primitive camping experience, you're never too far from essential services or local charm. This combination of accessibility and genuine wilderness proximity makes Northern Waters Base Camp an ideal spot for spontaneous weekend trips or longer, planned adventures for residents throughout New Hampshire.

• Primitive Tent Sites: Northern Waters Base Camp offers twelve primitive tent sites, providing a back-to-basics camping experience. These sites are perfect for those who enjoy the simple pleasures of outdoor living.

• Small Camper and RV Welcome: While primarily focused on tent camping, small campers and RVs are welcome at the base camp, offering a convenient option for those traveling with vehicles.

• Riverside Cabin (Limited Availability): In addition to tent sites, there is at least one rustic riverside cabin available, providing a cozy alternative for those who prefer a more sheltered stay. This cabin comes equipped with a cooking stove with an oven, basic kitchen essentials, and is often heated in winter.

• Outhouse Facilities: Campers have access to outhouse facilities, which are noted to be heated in winter for added comfort.

• Drinking Water Provided: Potable drinking water is available on-site, a crucial amenity for primitive camping.

• Seasonal Shower: A seasonal shower is available in a separate location, allowing campers to refresh after a day of activities.

• Firewood Available: Firewood can be purchased on-site, making it easy to enjoy a campfire during your stay.

• Free Tubes for Campers: Depending on availability, campers may receive free tubes, perfect for floating on the nearby Androscoggin River.

• Paddling Equipment Rentals: As Northern Waters Outfitters, the site specializes in canoe and kayak rentals, making it an ideal base for exploring the local waterways. They offer both flatwater canoes and kayaks, as well as tandem kayaks.

• Shuttle Services: Northern Waters offers canoe shuttle services to various boat launches in the area, facilitating diverse paddling trip options on the Androscoggin River and nearby Lake Umbagog.

• Paddling Instruction: The outfitter provides opportunities to learn kayaking, catering to both beginners and those looking to refine their skills.

• Wi-Fi & Limited Cell Service: The cabin at least is noted to have Wi-Fi and limited cell service, which can be a comfort for those needing to stay connected or for emergencies, even in a rustic setting.

• Prime Riverside Location: A standout feature is the campground's direct proximity to the Androscoggin River, offering immediate access for paddling, fishing, and enjoying the sounds of the rapids. Being right "between the dam and bridge" provides a unique and easily identifiable setting.

• Gateway to the Great North Woods: Northern Waters Base Camp serves as an excellent starting point for exploring the broader Great North Woods region. Its location in Errol, near the headwaters of the Androscoggin River and not far from the Canadian border, opens up a vast wilderness area for hiking, wildlife viewing, and other outdoor adventures.

• Focus on Paddling Adventures: With Northern Waters Outfitters on site, the base camp is a hub for canoeing and kayaking. They offer rental equipment and can facilitate single and multi-day canoe or kayak trips on the easily accessible series of rivers and lakes in the area. This makes it a top choice for water sports enthusiasts.

• True Wilderness Access: While conveniently located in town, the outfitter emphasizes "true wilderness access" from the base camp, encouraging more scenic and wildlife-filled trips to the north, particularly towards Lake Umbagog and its headwaters.

• Rustic Charm with Essential Comforts: The primitive tent sites offer a genuine rustic camping feel, while the availability of a cabin with amenities like a cooking stove, basic kitchen essentials, and even Wi-Fi (in the cabin) strikes a balance, providing essential comforts without sacrificing the outdoor experience.

• Experienced and Knowledgeable Staff: Northern Waters has been operating for nearly fifty years, building a reputation for being helpful, knowledgeable, and flexible in assisting visitors with their adventures. This long-standing expertise ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience for campers and paddlers alike.

• Flexible Trip Options: The ability to easily shuttle boats to various launches and explore different sections of the river and nearby lakes means campers have a high degree of flexibility in planning their daily or multi-day excursions. From easy "out and back" paddles to more extensive trips, the options are varied.

While Northern Waters Base Camp does not publicly advertise specific, ongoing promotions in the same way larger chains might, its pricing model and established presence as a local outfitter often imply a focus on value and community.

Information suggests that camping at Northern Waters Base Camp is priced competitively, making it an affordable option for locals looking for a genuine outdoor experience without breaking the bank. For example, camping at the Northern Waters Basecamp site is listed at $15.00 per night. Additionally, they offer a non-profit camp group price of $10.00 per person/per night, which can be a significant saving for larger organized groups.

It is always recommended to directly contact Northern Waters Outfitters or visit their official website (beoutside.com) for the most current pricing, any seasonal specials, or group rates that might be available. As a locally-focused business, they may offer unadvertised deals or flexibility for repeat customers or community groups.

Planning your next adventure to the Great North Woods? Here's how you can get in touch with Northern Waters Base Camp:

• Address: Northern Waters Outfitters, 29 Upton Rd, Errol, NH 03579, USA

• Phone: (603) 482-3817

The team at Northern Waters Outfitters is well-versed in the local area and outdoor activities. Don't hesitate to call them with any questions regarding campsite availability, cabin bookings, canoe or kayak rentals, shuttle services, or advice on planning your paddling trips. Their expertise will be invaluable in ensuring you have a memorable and safe experience.

For us New Hampshire residents, finding a camping spot that truly embodies the spirit of our state—rugged, beautiful, and welcoming to adventure—is a treasure. Northern Waters Base Camp in Errol perfectly fits this description, making it an ideal choice for locals seeking an authentic outdoor experience. It’s not about luxury or glamping; it’s about reconnecting with nature in a straightforward, accessible way, right in our own backyard.

Its prime location on the Androscoggin River serves as an incredible natural playground, offering unparalleled opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing that are central to the New Hampshire outdoor lifestyle. The ability to rent equipment and arrange shuttle services directly from the base camp makes planning a paddling trip exceptionally easy, eliminating many of the logistical hurdles that can often deter a spontaneous adventure.

What truly makes Northern Waters Base Camp suitable for locals is its genuine, no-frills approach to camping. The primitive tent sites encourage a back-to-basics mindset, allowing us to truly unplug and appreciate the sounds of the river and the quiet of the North Woods. The option for small campers and RVs, along with the rustic cabin, ensures there’s a comfortable fit for various preferences, all while maintaining that authentic outdoor feel. With nearly five decades of experience, Northern Waters Outfitters has become a trusted name for outdoor enthusiasts in the region. Their local knowledge and dedication to helping visitors make the most of their time in the wilderness are invaluable. For an accessible, genuine, and adventure-filled escape into the heart of New Hampshire’s Great North Woods, Northern Waters Base Camp is undoubtedly a top choice for any local.

Northern Waters Base Camp

Northern Waters Outfitters, 29 Upton Rd, Errol, NH 03579, USA