"We've moved on and now find ourselves at Dolly Copp campground in the White Mountain National Forest. A huge Forest Service campground with 177 sites - right now, I bet that only a dozen are occupied."
Dolly Copp Campground, near Gorham, NH: Site 23, this site has water nearby, no dump station available, 177 sites, 1,266' elevation. June 11th - 15th.
Overall Experience:
IMP Face Trail
Friday, we hiked the Imp trail near our campground. The looped 6.3-mile trail has about 1,900 ft gain in elevation. About a third of the way into the hike was Imp Face, which offered great Presidential Range views. Lots of up and then lots of down on a very rocky trail.
Touring Around Mt Washington
Hiking Mt Madison
Local Flavor – Area Businesses We Enjoyed & Recommend.
• MOAT Mountain Smoke House & Brewing Company Conway, NH
Dolly Copp Campground: A Natural Oasis in the White Mountains
Located just five miles outside of Gorham, New Hampshire, the Dolly Copp Campground sits within the stunning Presidential Mountain Range, offering campers a truly breathtaking natural setting.
A Rich History Rooted in the Land
The history of Dolly Copp Campground dates back to the early 20th century when it was established as a recreational area for the White Mountain National Forest. The campground was named after Dolly Copp, a local pioneer woman who homesteaded the land in the 1800s. Over the years, Dolly Copp Campground has grown to become one of the largest campgrounds in the National Forest System, attracting thousands of visitors each year.
Proximity to Natural Wonders
One of the key features that draws campers to Dolly Copp is its proximity to some of the region's most iconic natural landmarks:
- Mount Washington: The campground sits in the shadow of the majestic Mount Washington, the highest peak in the Northeastern United States.
- Great Gulf Wilderness: Nearby, visitors can explore the Great Gulf Wilderness, a vast expanse of pristine forest and alpine terrain.
A Haven for Outdoor Enthusiasts
In addition to its stunning natural setting, Dolly Copp Campground offers a wide range of amenities and activities for visitors to enjoy:
- Over 250 individual campsites
- Group camping areas
- Picnic sites
- Network of hiking trails
- On-site visitor center providing information and resources about the surrounding area
Overcoming Challenges and Looking Ahead
Despite its popularity, Dolly Copp Campground has faced its fair share of challenges in recent years. In 2021, the campground was forced to close for a multi-year construction project as the Forest Service worked to upgrade the site's infrastructure and facilities. However, with the project now in its final stages, the campground is poised to reopen and welcome a new generation of outdoor enthusiasts.
As the Dolly Copp Campground prepares to welcome visitors once again, it's clear that this iconic destination will continue to hold a special place in the hearts of those who seek to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the White Mountains. Whether you're a seasoned camper or a first-time visitor, the Dolly Copp Campground is a must-visit destination that promises to leave a lasting impression.
