Camping, fishing, and moose sightings

Time to shake off the soot of the city and get back to nature by exploring the great outdoors here in the heart of the White Mountains. Pack your fishing gear and try your luck at snagging trout in the Pemigewasset River, explore glacial caves and miles of hiking trails, take in an old-time roadside attraction, and toss back some local brews in this scenic village that sprang up around a lumber yard and sawmill in the early 1900s.

STAY

Been dying to hear birds chirp as dawn breaks? Pitch a tent at Country Bumpkins Campground and Cottages (218 Route 3, 603-745-8837, $22-$29, www.countrybumpkins.com), which also offers RV hookups and cabins ($64.95-$109.95) if you don’t feel like roughing it. The cozy bunk houses at Pemi Cabins (460 Route 3, 603-745-8323, $59-$105, www.pemicabins.com) are pet-friendly and offer all the comforts of home. For a more luxurious stay, kick back in the jacuzzi while taking in views of the river and mountains at the Indian Head Resort (664 Route 3, 800-343-8000, rooms $149-$199, cabins $119-$149, www.indianheadresort.com).