White Mountain National Forest
Overview
White Mountain National Forest spans approximately 800,000 acres across New Hampshire and western Maine, encompassing some of New England's highest peaks and over 1,200 miles of trails including 100+ miles of the Appalachian Trail. The forest is currently open year-round with winter conditions now in effect. Key alerts include: abnormally dry conditions persist; fire restrictions implemented September 22, 2025 due to drought prohibit fires outside designated metal fire rings at developed sites; Hayes Copp Ski Trail is closed for timber harvest operations through November 24, 2025; Sawyer River Road in Bartlett remains closed due to storm damage; and seasonal road closures are active for winter. Multiple Forest Supervisor's Orders remain in effect including wilderness restrictions, food storage requirements, alpine zone camping prohibitions, and various trail-specific regulations. The forest offers 21+ developed campgrounds, extensive hiking from easy walks to above-treeline challenges, and popular scenic drives including the Kancamagus Highway. Visitor passes or permits may be required for certain areas. Contact: (603) 536-6100.
Top Campgrounds
- Big Rock
- Blackberry Crossing Campground
- Camp Penacook Shelter
- Campton Campground
- Covered Bridge
- Crocker Pond
- Dolly Copp Picnic Pavilion
- Eliza Brook Shelter
- Ethan Pond Shelter
- Flat Mtn Pond Shelter
- Fourth Iron Tent Site
- Hermit Lake Complex
- Jigger Johnson
- Jim Liberty Cabin
- Mt Cabot Cabin
- Nauman Tent Site
- Ore Hill Tent Site
- Osceola Vista Campground
- Passaconaway Campground
- Radeke Cabin
- Rocky Branch Shelter #1
- Russell-colbath Barn
- Sawyer Pond Shelter & Tent Platforms
- Smarts Mountain Campsite
- Trapper John Shelter
- Tripoli Campground
- Waterville Campground
- White Ledge Campground
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