About Big Rock
Overview Big Rock Campground has 28 individual wooded sites, each with a picnic table, tent pad and turnout for parking. Eight sites share a common parking area, while most other sites have suitable parking space available for small trailers and motorhomes. Water, electrical and sewage connections are not provided. Campsites are available on a first-come, first serve basis and reservations. Recreation A variety of recreational opportunities exsist nearby which include; swimming, fishing, hiking, picnicking, sight-seeing and pleasure driving. Facilities Vault toilets. Natural Features The name “Big Rock” was dervied from a large prominent rock which is visable shortly after entering the campground. Big Rock campground is a developed recreation area administered by the USDA Forest Service. A fee is charged for the use of this area and is collected through a self-service pay system. The campgrounds are conveniently located near Interstate 93 in the heart of the White Mountain National Forest on the scenic Kancamagus Highway. Contact Info For facility specific information, please call (802) 289-0970. Nearby Attractions 1. East Branch Pemigewasset River 2. Upper Lady’s Bath 3. Kancamagus Highway 4. Otter Rocks 5. Greely Ponds Scenic Area 6. Franconia Falls 7. Black Pond 8. The Flume 9. Indian Head 10. The Basin 11. Franconia Notch 12. Cannon Mountain Tram 13. Lost River Road 14. Kinsman Notch
How to Get There
The campground is conveniently located off Exit 32 (the scenic Kancamagus Highway) from Interstate 93.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to Big Rock
Heading to Big Rock? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Big Rock?
No central reservation system listed for Big Rock. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/239417) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Big Rock?
The campground is conveniently located off Exit 32 (the scenic Kancamagus Highway) from Interstate 93.
How do I contact Big Rock?
You can reach the park at phone: WMNF (603) 536-6100 or email: whitemountaincampgrounds@goexplorus.com.
References & Official Resources
