Pemi River Campground

- 2458 US-3, Thornton, NH 03285

Pemi River Campground: The Heart of White Mountain Adventure on the Pemigewasset

For those of us who live in New Hampshire, the Pemigewasset River—affectionately known as "The Pemi"—is synonymous with summer. It's where we go to cool down, cast a line, and truly unwind. Nestled on 24 unspoiled acres along this iconic waterway in Thornton, the Pemi River Campground has established itself as a premier destination for both residents and visitors seeking an authentic White Mountain experience.

Open seasonally from May 1st through Columbus Day, this campground offers a fantastic blend of convenience and nature. It serves as the ideal home base, placing you within an easy drive of every major White Mountain attraction, from hiking the Franconia Ridge to visiting the Lakes Region. Whether you arrive in a spacious RV, a family tent, or prefer the rustic comfort of a cabin, the Pemi River Campground is designed to cater to all styles of camping, promising clean facilities, a friendly atmosphere, and, most importantly, direct access to the refreshing river.

Location and Accessibility

One of the greatest advantages for New Hampshire locals planning a quick weekend escape is the campground's superior accessibility. The Pemi River Campground is located right on a major state route, making it incredibly easy to reach while still providing a genuine riverside escape.

Address: 2458 US-3, Thornton, NH 03285, USA

• Strategically located right off I-93 at Exit 29, the campground is a short drive from major population centers in the state and beyond, making it a stress-free starting point for a vacation.
• The facility is situated directly along US Route 3 (Daniel Webster Highway), offering clear signage and a straightforward approach for all vehicle types, including large RVs.
• Its central position places it within 10 to 20 minutes of major regional hubs like Plymouth and Lincoln, where campers can find supplies, local restaurants, and additional amenities.
• The location is often described as a perfect launchpad for exploration, being less than an hour's drive from the furthest points of the White Mountain National Forest.

While a few sites are closer to the highway, the majority of the wooded and riverfront areas still provide the desirable privacy and natural setting New Hampshire campers expect.

Services Offered

Pemi River Campground offers a comprehensive suite of services and amenities designed to ensure a comfortable and fun stay for all guests, from families with children to seasoned RV travelers.

Site and Utility Services:

• Diverse Campsite Options: Offers primitive tent sites, wooded sites with water and electric (W/E) hookups, and large pull-through or back-in sites with full hookups (W/E/S) for RVs and trailers. Seasonal sites are also available.
• Deluxe Camper Cabins: Provides comfortable, one-room rustic cabins with a queen bed and bunk beds for those who prefer a roof overhead, with the bathhouse conveniently located nearby.
• Immaculate Restrooms and Showers: Modern, clean bathhouses with flush toilets and complimentary hot showers are maintained and checked hourly for cleanliness.
• Camp Store: A fully stocked on-site office and store offers ice, firewood, snacks, beverages, paper goods, toiletries, and most camping necessities.
• Utilities: Propane refilling station is available (open to the public), along with a sanitary dump station for RV users.

Recreation and River Services:

• On-Site River Trips: Rentals of tubes, kayaks, and canoes are available. This popular feature includes a convenient shuttle service that brings you upriver for a leisurely float or paddle back to the campground’s sandy beach. Note: River trips, particularly tubing, are subject to safe river conditions (water table) and may be suspended at times, so it is best to call ahead for current status.
• Beautiful Sandy Beach: A private, riverfront sandy beach offers a great place for sunbathing, swimming, and fishing.
• Recreation Area: Complimentary access to volleyball, frisbee, and horseshoe pits. A dedicated playground is available for younger children.

Features and Highlights

The Pemi River Campground is highly regarded for specific features that enhance the camping experience and make it a standout choice for local New Hampshire families.

Top Camper-Focused Features:

• Direct River Access and Activity: The most significant highlight is the immediate access to the Pemigewasset River. Campers can walk from their site straight to the river for a swim or launch their tube or kayak. The inclusion of a no-wait shuttle service for rentals simplifies the river experience, ensuring a relaxing day on the water where you finish right back at your campsite.
• Exceptional Cleanliness: Multiple reviews consistently highlight the staff’s commitment to maintaining spotless facilities. Clean bathrooms and showers are a major benefit, greatly improving the comfort of any camping trip.
• Pet-Friendly Environment: Well-behaved pets are welcome at most sites (excluding cabins), catering to the many New Hampshire locals who travel with their dogs. Clear guidelines, including leashes and registration, ensure a positive environment for all guests.
• Friendly and Helpful Atmosphere: The staff is frequently praised for being friendly and helpful, contributing to the welcoming, community-oriented ambiance that makes camping so enjoyable.
• Central White Mountain Base: For residents looking to tick off more 4,000-footers, explore attractions like the Flume Gorge, or take a ride on the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway, the campground’s proximity to these destinations is unparalleled.

Contact Information

Pemi River Campground

Address: 2458 US-3, Thornton, NH 03285, USA

Phone (Reservations and Current Conditions): (603) 726-7015

Note on Contact: Due to the campground's operation style, particularly concerning river conditions and limited staffing in the office, prospective campers are highly advised to be persistent with phone calls and to check the campground's official website or social media for the most current information, especially regarding river trip availability, as low water levels can cause cancellations.

Conclusion: Why This Place is Suitable for New Hampshire Locals

The Pemi River Campground is ideally suited for New Hampshire locals who value convenience, comprehensive amenities, and direct access to the state's best natural asset: its rivers and mountains. As residents, we appreciate the straight talk and the ability to get outdoors without unnecessary complications.

For a family from Manchester or Concord, the easy access off I-93 means less time driving and more time relaxing by the campfire or swimming in the Pemi. For the experienced outdoor enthusiast, it provides a full-service, reliable base camp to launch into the rugged trails of the White Mountain National Forest, knowing a hot shower and a clean bed (or bunk) await their return. The unique feature of on-site river rentals and shuttle service allows local families to enjoy a quintessential New Hampshire summer activity—tubing the Pemi—without the hassle of arranging off-site transportation. By offering a clean, family-friendly, and well-located option with a full spectrum of amenities, Pemi River Campground empowers New Hampshire residents to maximize their leisure time, connect with the nature they cherish, and create cherished summer memories right in their own beautiful backyard. It truly stands as a central gathering point for local adventure.

Pemi River Campground

2458 US-3, Thornton, NH 03285, USA