Howard Island South Campsite, Haverhill, NH

Howard Island South Campsite: An Authentic Connecticut River Experience

For New Hampshire locals who embrace the spirit of primitive camping and river-based adventure, Howard Island South Campsite offers a truly authentic overnight experience. Located on a large island within the mighty Connecticut River near Haverhill, this site is a crucial stop along the renowned Connecticut River Paddlers Trail. It provides an immediate escape from the daily hustle, inviting paddlers and campers to enjoy the natural, unspoiled beauty of the Upper Valley.

This campsite is defined by its remote accessibility—primarily reached by canoe or kayak—and its natural, low-impact facilities. Managed by the Upper Valley Land Trust (UVLT), it is maintained to ensure the delicate river ecology is preserved while offering a peaceful respite for those traveling the river. It stands out from typical commercial campgrounds by offering a true connection to the river landscape, making it a beloved spot for those who prefer to leave no trace and pitch a tent on a beautifully maintained, grassy riverbank.

Location and Accessibility

Howard Island South Campsite is located within the Connecticut River just off the New Hampshire bank, roughly two to three miles downstream of the Woodsville Bridge near Haverhill. Its location is a testament to the quiet, yet stunning, river geography of the region.

The site's physical address (approximate GPS location) is 4XC3+R3, Haverhill, NH 03774, USA. Crucially, this is an island site intended for use by canoe and kayak paddlers traveling the Connecticut River. Access is typically gained via the river, where the southern campsite is found at the southwestern corner of the island. Travelers should look for the backwater section that flows slowly around the southern edge of the island for the best landing.

Accessibility is geared toward self-sufficient individuals or groups engaged in paddling excursions. While local New Hampshire residents can easily drive to a nearby cartop boat launch in the Haverhill or North Haverhill area, the final approach and stay require non-motorized river travel. This characteristic reinforces its status as a secluded, wilderness-style camping option, making it an ideal choice for New Hampshire's most dedicated outdoor enthusiasts.

Services Offered

As a designated, primitive campsite on a paddler’s trail, the services offered at Howard Island South are focused on essential amenities to facilitate responsible, low-impact camping, adhering to 'Leave No Trace' principles.

Essential Primitive Services:

Cleared Tent Site: The area features a mowed, grassy space suitable for pitching tents, large enough to accommodate groups.
Fire Ring: A designated fire ring is provided for safe campfires.
Picnic Table: A communal or dedicated picnic table is available at the site.
Box Privy: A basic, low-impact toilet facility (box privy) is provided to ensure hygiene and respect for the natural environment, though a recent review noted it was not immediately visible or easily located.
No Water or Electricity: Campers must be fully self-sufficient, bringing all necessary drinking water and power, as no utility hookups are available.

Campsite Management and Use:

Site Steward: The site is stewarded by the Upper Valley Land Trust (UVLT), ensuring its upkeep and preservation.
First-Come, First-Served: UVLT campsites, including Howard Island South, are generally available on a first-come, first-served basis; reservations are typically not accepted for single sites.
Suggested Donation: A suggested donation, often $10 per tent per night, supports the ongoing maintenance of the site and the Connecticut River Paddlers Trail.
Stay Limit: Campers are typically asked to limit their stay to two nights per site to allow others to enjoy the resource.

Features and Highlights

The primary appeal of Howard Island South Campsite lies in its environmental features and its connection to the greater river trail system.

Environmental and Water Features:

Riverbank Access: The campsite boasts a sandy riverbank, providing a clear and pleasant landing spot for canoes and kayaks, as well as a place to relax by the water.
Island Location: Being on an island ensures exceptional solitude and a unique perspective of the surrounding New Hampshire and Vermont shorelines.
Connecticut River Paddlers Trail: Its integration into this 400-mile-plus trail makes it a key feature for long-distance paddlers exploring the entire river from source to sea.
Natural Setting: The site is characterized by open, grassy areas and a clean environment, reflecting the efforts of the steward and site adopters to maintain its pristine condition.

Group Suitability:

Large Capacity: The cleared tent area is suitable for large groups, making it an excellent gathering point for local outdoor clubs, scouts, or extended family paddling trips.

Proximity to Local Charm:

Haverhill Area: Located near Haverhill and North Haverhill, campers are a short distance (by car from a boat launch) from small New Hampshire towns, allowing for resupply or a meal before or after a paddling journey.

Contact Information

As a remote, primitive site, there is no direct office or physical phone line at the campsite itself. Inquiries are generally directed through the site steward organization.

Address: 4XC3+R3, Haverhill, NH 03774, USA (Approximate GPS Location)

Stewardship Contact (Upper Valley Land Trust): While no direct phone number is provided for the campsite, the UVLT can be reached for stewardship and trail information.

Conclusion: Why This Place is Suitable for New Hampshire Locals

For New Hampshire locals, especially those in the Upper Valley and those who own a canoe or kayak, Howard Island South Campsite is more than just a place to stay—it's an integral piece of the region's heritage and outdoor recreation network. It is ideally suited for local adventurers who prioritize a primitive, low-cost, and genuinely remote experience.

Unlike crowded roadside campgrounds, the island site offers true solitude. Its accessibility via the Connecticut River makes it a destination reserved for those actively engaging with the natural landscape, whether for a challenging multi-day paddle or a peaceful weekend getaway. The fact that the site is maintained by the Upper Valley Land Trust, a dedicated regional conservation organization, means that by utilizing and respecting the site, locals are directly supporting the preservation of New Hampshire's priceless river corridors. The well-kept grassy tent area and clean environment highlight the care put into this resource. For residents seeking to detach from technology and immerse themselves in the quiet beauty of the Granite State’s waterways, Howard Island South Campsite provides the perfect, unspoiled haven. It embodies the adventurous spirit of New Hampshire camping.