Set within White Mountain National Forest, Dolly Copp Campground sprawls across 177 sites along the Peabody River, four miles south of Gorham. The US Forest Service recently completed extensive renovations, adding water and electric hookups to many sites, paved roads, and new bathhouses with coin-operated showers. Some sites nestle among white birches and hardwoods near the water, while others occupy open meadow areas that offer less shade but more space for larger RVs.
The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis during peak season, with cars sometimes lining up at the entrance on busy weekends. Whitney W. notes the facility stays "very quiet and clean," though she warns that "black bear are prominent and will venture across picnic tables and sites." Rangers post bear warning signs throughout the grounds and enforce strict food storage rules.
Multiple hiking trails begin within or near the campground, providing direct access to Mount Washington via several routes including the auto road and cog railway. The northern Presidential Range and Carter-Moriah peaks draw serious hikers, while families often visit nearby Glen Ellis Falls and Diana's Baths. Cell service remains spotty throughout the area, with several reviewers mentioning minimal connectivity.
Road conditions through the campground can be rough, particularly during construction periods that have affected some loops in recent years. The Peabody River runs cold year-round, offering swimming opportunities for those willing to brave the temperature. Weather patterns in this notch location can shift quickly, with frequent rain and strong winds common even in summer months.
Campers seeking different terrain can explore places to camp near Randolph for additional options in the region.
Description
Overview
Located 6 miles south of Gorham, New Hampshire at the base of New England's tallest peak, the historic Dolly Copp Campground is a large facility that accommodates a range of campers and provides access to some of the most popular hikes in the White Mountains. Lush forests, spectacular mountain views and convenience to outdoor recreation and scenic driving draw visitors from all over to Dolly Copp. The surrounding White Mountain National Forest encompasses nearly 800,000 acres in New Hampshire and western Maine, and is one of the most popular forests in the country.
Recreation
The campground is a hub for hikes into the Presidential and Carter-Moriah Ranges. The Daniel Webster Scout Trail leads from the campground into the Great Gulf Wilderness on the northeast side of Mount Washington. Many more miles of trails can be accessed within a short drive. Within the facility, anglers can try their luck for brook trout in the creek and river. Families can learn more through educational programs presented on weekends in July and August. The end of the camping season may also bring great opportunities for viewing fall foliage. Learn more about recreation in the national forest.
Facilities
Dolly Copp is the largest campground within White Mountain National Forest. Sites are spacious and organized into several loops. Some sites have 30amp / 50 amp hookups. Coin operated showers, flush toilets, water spigots are located throughout the campground.
Natural Features
Dolly Copp is situated in a mixed hardwood, spruce and pine forest at the base of 6,288-ft. Mount Washington, the highest peak north of the Smoky Mountains and east of the Mississippi River. The Peabody River and Culhane Brook pass through the facility. The national forest is home to many species of northern wildlife, including moose, white-tailed deer and black bear. Almost 200 species of birds, including the rare Bicknell's Thrush, live in the White Mountains. Summer temperatures are often very pleasant; however mountain weather can change drastically, putting visitors at risk for exposure to cold, rain and snow even during summer. Campers should come prepared.
Contact Info
For facility specific information, please call (802) 289-0970.
Nearby Attractions
Numerous hiking trails, mountain biking trails and rock climbing routes are within a short drive of the campground. The nearby towns of North Conway, Jackson and Gorham provide shops, restaurants, supplies and other conveniences. In clear weather, confident campers can try the drive up the steep Mount Washington Auto Road to catch a view from the Northeast's highest peak. Guided tours are also available. The Cog Railway ascends the other side of the mountain, and is about an hour drive from Dolly Copp.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundDolly Copp Campground is located in New Hampshire
Directions
From Gorham, New Hampshire: Take State Route 16 south for 6 miles. Turn right onto Dolly Copp Road and travel 0.5 miles to the campground. From North Conway, New Hampshire: Take Highway 302 to Glen. Turn right onto State Route 16 north and follow for about 22 miles. Turn left onto Dolly Copp Road and travel 0.5 miles to the campground.
Address
WHITE MOUNTAIN
NH
Coordinates
44.3327778 N
71.2194444 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 4/4/26- VerizonNo CoverageVerified by 1 user
AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 3 usersLast on 4/4/26
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 4/4/26
- VerizonNo CoverageVerified by 1 user
- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 3 usersLast on 4/4/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Firewood Available
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Water Hookups
- 50 Amp Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly
Contact
General Info
Reservations
Drive Time
- 1 hr 35 min from Lewiston, ME
- 2 hrs 5 min from Manchester, NH
- 2 hrs 5 min from Portland, ME
- 2 hrs 32 min from Burlington, VT
