Tent camping sites near Amherst, New Hampshire span across a region with varied terrain from river valleys to small mountains. Elevations range from around 230 feet to 1,200 feet above sea level, creating diverse camping experiences within a relatively small area. Summer temperatures typically reach 75-85°F during the day, dropping to 55-65°F at night, while spring and fall camping requires preparation for nighttime temperatures that can dip into the 40s.
What to do
Paddling and water activities: Tully Lake Recreation Area offers water-based adventures for tent campers. "We take our canoe and spend the whole day at the lake. You can find lots of private areas to swim, pick blueberries and relax," shares Ben P. from Tully Lake Recreation Area.
Hiking opportunities: Multiple trail systems exist within 15-30 minutes of most campgrounds. "If you'd like to hike with children, there is an easy hike close to the entrance, along Doane's Falls, a series of 5 waterfalls along an ascending path through a wooded area," notes Jean C., who hiked "the 4-mile loop around Tully Lake" during their visit.
Outdoor games: Several campgrounds provide recreation beyond water activities. "Volleyball and horseshoes are near the entrance," mentions Jean C. about Tully Lake Recreation Area. The family-friendly atmosphere at many sites ensures various options for keeping active during your stay.
What campers like
Privacy and space: Many tent sites feature natural separation from neighboring campsites. At Cape Ann Camp Site, Dan notes, "The camp ground is full of beautiful boulders and fire pits. We were tent camping and were very happy with our site." Cristina P. adds, "We had a nice perfectly level site in a beautiful wooded area."
Wildlife sightings: The natural surroundings provide opportunities for wildlife viewing. At Cape Ann Camp Site, John S. mentions "spectacular views and wild turkeys, deer, etc." These encounters add to the camping experience without being intrusive.
Helpful staff: Campground personnel receive consistent praise from visitors. LaJaun C. states that at Cape Ann Camp Site, "The staff is awesome. Very helpful." Rebecca S. agrees, mentioning "friendly staff" as a highlight of their stay, while Della S. notes "the owners are very helpful. Call and they will help you find a spot if you have questions."
What you should know
Tent pad locations: At several campgrounds, expect to walk your gear in from parking areas. At Tully Lake Recreation Area, Miguel B. explains: "If you are a car camper this is going to be more rustic as there is no driving up to the sites, but there is a main parking area and a few sites 50-100 yards aways from it."
Bathroom facilities: Restroom access varies significantly between locations. Della S. notes Cape Ann has "clean bathrooms and pay showers (5 cents)," while Tully Lake provides "one central restroom with showers (bring your quarters) and a place to wash dishes."
Cell service limitations: Limited connectivity is common at the best tent camping near Amherst, New Hampshire. Jean C. advises: "Cell coverage is pretty close to absent or poor in most of the area, so download any maps you might want (driving, trail, geocaching) before you arrive."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Some campgrounds specifically cater to younger campers. At Salmon Falls River RV Resort, Samantha N. reports: "If you have young kids this place is so fun! Multiple pools, a water slide, high ropes, a jump pad, mini golf and more!!! My niece had so much fun!"
Site selection for families: When camping with children, bathroom proximity matters. Lauren A. from Tully Lake notes: "Our site was fairly far from services, long run with small kids in the middle of the night." Consider this when booking sites with younger children.
Environmental education: Several campgrounds offer learning opportunities. At Camp Nihan Education Center, Michael V. found: "The group site is super close to parking and yet the terrain is rugged enough that it always felt like we were really in the woods... The camp is also adjacent to Breakheart Reservation, which had a great shallow pond with life guard on duty as well as bike trails and a range of different hikes."
Tips from RVers
Site capacity limitations: For RVers seeking tent camping near Amherst, New Hampshire, size restrictions exist at most campgrounds. LaJaun C. notes that at Cape Ann Camp Site, "All size RVs and tents are welcome. They have water, sewer, and electric hookups." However, these facilities aren't universal across all campgrounds.
Seasonal considerations: Most RV-friendly campgrounds in the region operate seasonally. Cape Ann Camp Site runs from "May 15 - Oct 15," according to their listing information, while other campgrounds have similar seasonal limitations.
Accessibility challenges: Tent camping at RV sites often presents terrain challenges. Aaron G. notes that at Salmon Falls River RV Resort, "Campsites are level and site is fairly easy to maneuver with bigger rigs," but many tent-focused campgrounds like Lost Boys Hideout require walk-in access with limited vehicle accessibility.
