White Mountain National Forest
800,000 acres of hiking, scenic drives, and fall foliage — and Riverside is your gateway.
White Mountain National Forest encompasses over 800,000 acres across New Hampshire and western Maine, attracting approximately 7 million visitors annually. From Riverside Camping & RV Resort, you're within minutes of trailheads, scenic overlooks, and some of the most dramatic mountain scenery in the eastern United States.
Hiking from Riverside
Lancaster's location in the northern White Mountains provides access to trails ranging from easy riverside walks to challenging above-treeline traverses. Popular options include:
- Weeks State Park (Mt. Prospect): 6 miles from Riverside. Moderate 1.5-mile hike to a fire tower with 360° panoramic views. Family-friendly.
- Presidential Range: 30 miles south. The most iconic hiking in the Northeast, including Mount Washington (6,288 ft). Expert-level above-treeline conditions.
- Kilkenny Ridge Trail: Access from nearby Gorham. A less-crowded alternative to the Presidentials with excellent views.
- Pondicherry Wildlife Refuge: 10 miles from Riverside. Easy, flat trails through wetlands with excellent birding.
Scenic Drives
- Kancamagus Highway: One of America's most scenic drives, especially during fall foliage. About 45 miles south of Riverside.
- Route 2 (Shelburne to Gorham): Stunning mountain views along the Androscoggin River. 20 minutes east.
- Mount Washington Auto Road: Drive to the summit of the highest peak in the Northeast. 30 miles south.
Fall Foliage
The White Mountains are one of the premier fall foliage destinations in North America. Peak foliage in the Lancaster area typically occurs from late September through mid-October. The views from Riverside — framed by the Presidential Range and Kilkenny Range — are spectacular during this period.