Dolly Copp Campground

- Dolly Copp Campground Rd, Gorham, NH 03581

For New Hampshire residents seeking the quintessential White Mountain National Forest camping experience without sacrificing essential comforts, Dolly Copp Campground stands as the region's top choice. As the largest campground within the WMNF, it offers an expansive, yet remarkably private, basecamp nestled in a beautiful mixed hardwood and evergreen forest. Located at the base of New England's tallest peak, 6,288-foot Mount Washington, this historic facility is a true hub for local outdoor enthusiasts, providing easy access to world-class hiking, fishing, and scenic drives.

Dolly Copp is far from a small, rustic operation. It accommodates a wide range of campers, from those in large RVs needing electric hookups to those seeking a secluded experience in a wooded tent-only loop. This versatility makes it a favorite annual getaway spot for local families and serious hikers alike. The campground is well-organized into several spacious loops, such as the popular 'Brook loop,' where sites are described by visitors as "spacious and level," providing enough room to feel truly separated from neighbors. The peaceful atmosphere, combined with the convenience of clean, large facilities, ensures a stay that is both immersive in nature and refreshingly comfortable.

However, local users should be aware of a few classic WMNF realities. While the location offers outstanding proximity to attractions like the privately-operated Mount Washington Auto Road, cell service within the campground is famously non-existent, requiring some planning ahead—especially regarding campsite reservations and check-in times. The general rule for a great stay at Dolly Copp is preparation meets unparalleled access to the majestic New Hampshire wilderness.

Dolly Copp Campground is strategically located approximately six miles south of Gorham, New Hampshire, along Dolly Copp Campground Road, just a short turn-off from NH Route 16. This placement is not only scenic but provides direct, practical access to the crown jewels of the White Mountains.

Proximity Highlights:

• At the Base of Mount Washington: The campground is ideally situated at the foot of Mount Washington, granting quick and easy access to the mountain’s attractions, including the Mount Washington Auto Road and trailheads for routes like the Daniel Webster Scout Trail.
• Hiking Hub: Dolly Copp is considered a prime launching point, or "hub," for serious hikes into the Presidential and Carter-Moriah Ranges. The Daniel Webster Scout Trail, in particular, leads directly from the campground into the Great Gulf Wilderness.
• Town Convenience: The nearby towns of Gorham (about 6 miles north) and Jackson and North Conway (to the south) offer essential amenities, including grocery stores, gas stations, shops, and restaurants, making resupply runs quick and simple for multi-day trips.
• Scenic Drives: Being on Route 16 places campers near some of New Hampshire's most famous scenic driving routes, perfect for enjoying the breathtaking fall foliage or mountain vistas.

The accessibility is a major selling point for local users. Whether arriving in a large RV or a small passenger vehicle for a tent site, the drive-in access is simple, though caution should be exercised when navigating the large loop system to locate a specific site upon arrival. Due to the lack of cell service, a printed map or confirmed site number is essential.

As the largest campground in the White Mountain National Forest, Dolly Copp offers a comprehensive range of amenities, making it one of the most comfortable camping options in the region, particularly for RV and trailer owners.

• Electric Hookups: Unlike many rustic National Forest sites, Dolly Copp features sites with both 30-amp and 50-amp electrical hookups, a significant draw for RV and trailer users.
• Flush Toilets and Water: Clean, modern facilities include flush toilets and numerous water spigots located throughout the various campground loops, greatly enhancing comfort compared to vault-only facilities.
• Coin-Operated Showers: A bathhouse is available with coin-operated showers. While a minor inconvenience (quarters are necessary), this service is highly valued by hikers and long-stay visitors.
• Dump Station: A convenient dump station is available for use, which is free for registered campers, making it easy to manage waste from RVs and trailers.
• Fire Pits and Picnic Tables: Every one of the roughly 170+ spacious sites is equipped with a picnic table and a sturdy fire ring with a fold-over grill, ideal for cooking and communal gathering.
• Trash Collection: Trash collection and a recycling center are provided, helping campers maintain a clean campsite and adhere to Leave No Trace principles.
• Camp Host and Ranger Presence: Camp hosts are generally present in designated sites to assist visitors, manage the facilities, and provide local information.
• Educational Programs: During the summer months (typically July and August), the campground often hosts educational programs on weekends, offering families a chance to learn more about the local natural history and wildlife.

Dolly Copp is celebrated by New Hampshire outdoor enthusiasts for its expansive environment and unparalleled access to the heart of the White Mountains.

• Spacious and Private Sites: The campground’s size and layout, organized into multiple loops like the 'Brook Loop,' ensure that sites are well-spaced and often provide a sense of seclusion, allowing campers to truly "not hear or see your neighbors."
• Direct Trail Access: The Daniel Webster Scout Trail provides direct, boots-on-the-ground access to the Great Gulf Wilderness area, eliminating the need to drive for some of the best hiking in the state.
• River Access: The Peabody River and Culhane Brook pass through the facility, offering beautiful waterside views and opportunities for fishing (brook trout are often caught here) and enjoying the scenic mountain streams.
• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: Situated in a lush forested area at the base of the mountains, the campground is a home for northern wildlife, including moose, white-tailed deer, and black bears. Campers are reminded to practice bear-aware food storage at all times.
• Historic CCC Site: The nearby Dolly Copp Picnic Pavilion, originally built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in 1936, highlights the historical significance of this area, offering a sense of connection to New Hampshire's past.
• Ideal for RVs and Tents: The flexible site types, including fully wooded tent-only sites and large, level spots that can accommodate RVs up to 45 feet, ensure all types of New Hampshire campers can find a comfortable stay.

For all inquiries regarding reservations, site details, or operational questions, local users should use the following information for the White Mountain National Forest Supervisor's Office, which manages the facility.

Address: Dolly Copp Campground Rd, Gorham, NH 03581, USA

Information Phone: (603) 536-6100 (White Mountain National Forest Supervisor's Office)

Mobile Phone: +1 603-536-6100

Note: Due to a lack of cell service on site, it is best to contact the Forest Service ahead of time for important information or reservation confirmations.

Dolly Copp Campground represents an unparalleled camping value for New Hampshire residents. Its identity as the largest, most feature-rich campground in the White Mountain National Forest makes it perfectly suited for local families and seasoned outdoor adventurers. For those who frequently visit the White Mountains, Dolly Copp provides a reliable, spacious, and conveniently located home base.

The availability of key amenities—flush toilets, coin-operated showers, and electric hookups—removes many of the typical barriers of wilderness camping, making it accessible and enjoyable for a wider range of people, from those new to camping to those with large RV setups. At the same time, the deep, wooded sites, especially in loops like 'Brook,' offer the authentic solitude that experienced locals crave.

Its proximity to the Presidential Range, a quick drive to the Mount Washington Auto Road, and the availability of hiking trailheads right from the campground solidify its reputation as the premier launchpad for exploring New Hampshire’s highest peaks. While the lack of cell service requires a small logistical adjustment, the payoff is a peaceful, quiet night under the stars, away from the distractions of the modern world. Dolly Copp is, quite simply, the essential New Hampshire campground for comfort, space, and adventure.

Dolly Copp Campground

Dolly Copp Campground Rd, Gorham, NH 03581, USA