Gilson Pond Campground

For those of us living in the Granite State, the silhouette of Mount Monadnock is a familiar and cherished landmark. Standing as the centerpiece of southwestern New Hampshire, this mountain is legendary for its views and its history. While many visitors arrive for a quick day hike, local outdoor enthusiasts know that the best way to truly experience the region is by spending a night at Gilson Pond Campground. Located within Monadnock State Park in Jaffrey, this campground represents the first significant expansion of the New Hampshire State Park system in over 40 years. It offers a peaceful, wooded alternative to the busier park headquarters, providing a sanctuary where the call of the loon and the whisper of the wind through the pines replace the sounds of the city.

Gilson Pond Campground is specifically designed for those who appreciate a quieter, more intimate camping experience. With only 35 drive-in sites and 5 remote hike-to locations, the campground avoids the crowded feel of larger commercial parks. It serves as an ideal basecamp for New Hampshire families and hikers who want to "beat the rush" at the trailhead. Instead of navigating the weekend traffic at the main park entrance, campers here can wake up, enjoy a cup of coffee by the pond, and step directly onto the trails that lead to one of the most climbed mountains in the world. It is a place where the tradition of the New Hampshire "small getaway weekend" is alive and well, offering a clean, safe, and professional environment for campers of all skill levels.

Location and accessibility are major advantages for New Hampshire residents. The campground is situated at 585 Dublin Road in Jaffrey, NH 03452, just two miles down the road from the main Monadnock State Park Headquarters. For locals driving in from the Monadnock Region or the Manchester/Nashua area, the park is easily reached via Route 101 and Route 124. Upon arrival, visitors are greeted by a well-organized facility featuring a wheelchair-accessible entrance and a paved parking lot near the office. While the mountain itself is rugged, the campground facilities have been thoughtfully updated to ensure accessibility, with ADA-compliant restrooms and showers located in the central bathhouse. This makes it a welcoming spot for families with diverse needs who still want to enjoy a deep-woods experience.

The services offered at Gilson Pond Campground are tailored to provide a comfortable stay without detracting from the natural beauty of the forest. The campground office serves as a hub of information, staffed by knowledgeable rangers who are experts on local trail conditions and weather. For those traveling with gear, the onsite services ensure you have the essentials for a successful trip. These services include:

• 35 thoughtfully spaced campsites designed for tents, pop-ups, and smaller RVs (up to approximately 25–30 feet).
• Four specific sites (A5, A6, A8, and A9) equipped with 30-amp electrical power for those requiring a bit more utility.
• A well-maintained bathhouse featuring modern flush toilets and coin-operated hot showers that are cleaned daily.
• A fully stocked camp store providing firewood, ice, maps, and essential camping supplies (though perishable groceries should be packed in).
• On-site parking at each drive-in site, with additional parking available for hikers and remote site visitors.
• Professional maintenance and ranger patrols that ensure the grounds remain quiet and respectful for all guests.
• A convenient check-in process at the toll booth or office, where local staff can provide tips for the best sunrise views.

The features and highlights of Gilson Pond go beyond the standard campground amenities. The area is named for the pristine pond that serves as a mirror for the mountain's summit, offering one of the most photographic views in the state. For families, the presence of a modern playground provides a safe place for kids to burn off energy while parents prepare meals at the nearby picnic tables. Key highlights of the campground include:

• Direct access to the Birchtoft Trail, which connects to the Pumpelly and Red Spot trails for a longer, more secluded route to the 3,165-foot summit.
• Five remote hike-to sites (R1 through R5) that offer maximum privacy for those looking to "get away from it all" without leaving the park system.
• Kid-friendly hikes, such as the Gilson Pond Loop, which offers an easy one-mile walk around the water with ample opportunities for birdwatching and nature study.
• Large, level campsites equipped with heavy-duty fire rings and sturdy picnic tables for the ultimate New Hampshire cookout experience.
• A peaceful atmosphere that is specifically designated as a dog-friendly area, allowing your four-legged companions to join the family on the campsite (though pets are not permitted on the mountain trails themselves).
• Educational programs like "Night Watchers," which often take place during the peak season to teach campers about local wildlife.

For those looking to book a stay, the contact information is straightforward. Gilson Pond Campground is located at 585 Dublin Road, Jaffrey, NH 03452. Reservations are highly recommended and can be made through the New Hampshire State Parks website or via the ReserveAmerica system at 1-877-647-2757. For specific questions about the campground or trail conditions, you can contact the park directly at (603) 532-2416. The campground typically operates from mid-May through Columbus Day, offering the best of the spring bloom, summer breeze, and vibrant autumn foliage.

What is worth choosing Gilson Pond for your next adventure? For the local New Hampshire resident, it is the combination of heritage and quality. It is worth choosing because it provides a "base camp" experience that allows you to be on the mountain before the day-use crowds even reach the park gates. It is worth choosing for the cleanliness of the facilities—often cited as some of the best in the state park system—and the professional, friendly staff who clearly take pride in their work. Most importantly, it is worth choosing for the quiet. While other parks might be filled with the hum of generators or the noise of highway traffic, Gilson Pond remains a place where you can sit by the water at twilight and feel the true spirit of the Monadnock Region. Whether you are a solo hiker seeking a remote platform or a family introducing your children to their first New Hampshire peak, this campground offers an authentic and high-quality experience that is uniquely our own.

By choosing a New Hampshire State Park campground, you are also directly supporting the conservation and operation of the lands we love. Gilson Pond Campground is a shining example of how our state can provide modern, accessible amenities while protecting the wild character of our mountains. For anyone in the 603 area code looking for a weekend that feels like a true vacation, this Jaffrey gem is ready to welcome you to the woods.