Northern Waters Base Camp, Errol, NH

Introduction / Overview: Experience the True North of New Hampshire at Northern Waters Base Camp

For those of us who call New Hampshire home, the call of the wild is a powerful one, and few places embody the rugged, pristine beauty of our state quite like the Great North Woods. Deep within this northern expanse, you will find Northern Waters Base Camp, a premier destination that serves as the perfect launch point for your next wilderness adventure. Operated by the trusted Northern Waters Outfitters, this isn't just a place to pitch a tent; it’s an authentic, car-accessible riverside retreat right in the heart of Errol, NH.

Nestled directly alongside the powerful Androscoggin River, the Base Camp has been a fixture for decades, offering locals and visitors alike a genuine taste of Northern New Hampshire camping. It specializes in a more rustic, primitive style of camping, making it ideal for the seasoned Granite Stater looking to disconnect and immerse themselves in nature without sacrificing the convenience of nearby town amenities. The camp is an integral part of the larger outfitting service, meaning your stay here provides immediate, effortless access to some of the best whitewater, paddling, and wildlife viewing opportunities in the region, particularly around the Umbagog Lake National Wildlife Refuge area. With a long-standing history of providing quality outdoor experiences, Northern Waters Base Camp is your trusted local partner for exploring the most beautiful and untamed corner of New Hampshire.

The philosophy here is simple: provide a comfortable, clean, and engaging base from which you can explore the magnificent surroundings. Whether your passion is running the Class II whitewater rapids that flow right past the site, embarking on an extended canoe trip along the Northern Forest Canoe Trail, or simply enjoying the quiet of a campfire under the vast northern stars, the Base Camp is meticulously set up to support your activities. It's a high-use spot, celebrated for its friendly staff and unbeatable location—a true community hub for the New Hampshire outdoor enthusiast.

Location and Accessibility: Downtown Errol, On the Androscoggin River

One of the Base Camp’s most compelling features is its strategic location. Northern Waters Base Camp is uniquely situated right in downtown Errol, New Hampshire. Errol sits at the crossroads of Route 16 and Route 26, serving as the gateway to the vast recreational areas of the Great North Woods, including the nearby Umbagog Lake and Dixville Notch. This central positioning means the camp is arguably the most car-accessible camping option managed by Northern Waters Outfitters, offering a blend of immediate wilderness access and practical convenience.

The exact address, which corresponds to the main outfitter’s office and the campground entrance, is 29 Upton Rd, Errol, NH 03579, USA. Being in town means that essential supplies, local restaurants, and even a large local sporting goods store are all within easy walking distance. This accessibility is a major benefit for campers who want to minimize travel time for resupply or a quick meal.

Crucially, the campground is set right along the Androscoggin River, positioned strategically between the local dam and the bridge, adjacent to the Androscoggin Rapids. This direct waterfront location is not just scenic; it’s functional, providing immediate put-in or take-out points for paddling and tubing adventures. While it may experience heavy foot traffic from those participating in river trips, the riverside setting, proximity to a public boat launch, and car-accessible sites make it an incredibly convenient base for exploring the wild waterways that characterize this part of New Hampshire. Getting here is straightforward, and once you arrive, you’re just steps away from both the wilderness and basic town comforts.

Services Offered: More Than Just a Campsite

The service offerings at Northern Waters Base Camp go beyond standard camping, leveraging the facilities and expertise of Northern Waters Outfitters to provide a comprehensive adventure package.

Primitive Camping Sites: The camp offers twelve primitive tent sites, each designed to provide a rustic camping experience.
Small RV/Camper Accommodation: Small campers and RVs are welcome at the base camp, accommodating guests who prefer a bit more shelter.
Fire Pits and Picnic Tables: Every campsite is equipped with a fire ring and a picnic table for cooking and social gatherings.
Firewood Sales: Both hard and soft wood bundles are available for purchase right at the Base Camp office.
Outhouse Facilities: Outhouses are available and in close proximity to the campsites, maintaining the primitive nature of the camp.
Water Activity Rentals: As the headquarters for Northern Waters Outfitters, the site offers rentals for canoes, kayaks, tandem kayaks, and rafts.
Tubing Included for Campers: Depending on availability, inner tubes are often provided free of charge to registered campers for river floats.
River Shuttle Service: Available to transport paddlers to various put-in locations, including those on the Magalloway River and Lake Umbagog.
Guided Tours: Professional guides are available for whitewater rafting, canoeing, and other local outings.
Alternative Accommodations: A cabin tent and a tipi are occasionally available for rental, offering a unique shelter experience.
Pet-Friendly Policy: The base camp welcomes all pets, allowing you to bring your furry friends along for the adventure.
Discounts: The outfitter offers special rates for veterans, guides, AT hikers, and NFCT paddlers.

Features / Highlights: The Local Edge

Northern Waters Base Camp is celebrated by the local adventure community for several key highlights that make it stand out among North Country options.

Riverside Frontage on Androscoggin Rapids: The camp is situated right next to the exciting Class II whitewater section of the Androscoggin, offering front-row views and immediate access for rafting and paddling.
Downtown Errol Convenience: Unlike many remote New Hampshire campgrounds, the Base Camp is walking distance from local amenities, including restaurants, stores, and L.L. Cote for last-minute gear and groceries.
Gateway to Umbagog Lake Wildlife: The location is a primary access point for trips into the Umbagog Lake National Wildlife Refuge, renowned for its exceptional wildlife viewing, including moose, bald eagles, and loons.
Northern Forest Canoe Trail Access: This is a convenient and supportive stop for paddlers completing sections of the legendary NFCT.
One-Stop Adventure Shop: The site operates as the outfitter's headquarters, meaning all your gear, rental, shuttle, and guiding needs are met in one location.
Season-Round Operation: Unlike many seasonal campgrounds, Northern Waters Outfitters is noted for offering campsites year-round, accommodating winter enthusiasts such as snowmobilers, though amenities are reduced in the off-season.
Community and Staff: Visitors consistently praise the extremely friendly and helpful staff who are experts on the local waterways and trails.

Contact Information

For reservations, inquiries, or to book your next river trip, you can reach the outfitter and the Base Camp using the following details:

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

Phone: (603) 482-3817

Conclusion: Why This Place is Suitable for Locals

For New Hampshire residents, Northern Waters Base Camp offers a perfect blend of authentic North Country wilderness and practical accessibility, making it an ideal choice for a weekend escape or a full-blown adventure base. We know that finding a reliable, friendly, and truly local outfitter is key to an authentic experience, and Northern Waters provides exactly that, with a history of serving the region for nearly fifty years.

The camp's proximity to downtown Errol minimizes the logistical headaches often associated with deep-woods trips, while its location directly on the Androscoggin River puts you immediately in the action. Whether you are an experienced whitewater enthusiast looking to run the rapids multiple times a day or a family seeking a peaceful canoe paddle on Lake Umbagog, the Base Camp’s dual role as a campground and a full-service outfitter is invaluable. It’s a space where you can park your car, pitch your tent, grab a free tube, and transition seamlessly into the North Woods way of life. By choosing Northern Waters Base Camp, you are supporting a local business that acts as a true steward of New Hampshire's most rugged and rewarding outdoor spaces, ensuring that the wild heart of the Granite State remains accessible for all of us. It is the trusted local hub for your next adventure in the spectacular Great North Woods.