Barrington camping options span across southeastern New Hampshire, with proximity to lakes and woodlands creating varied camping environments. The region receives approximately 48 inches of annual precipitation with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F. Most campsites near Barrington are situated within pine forests or adjacent to small lakes and ponds, creating natural windbreaks and shade coverage during peak summer months.
What to do
Kayaking and canoeing: Pawtuckaway State Park offers excellent water access for paddlers. "This a a fantastic little camp for if you want to go canoeing or kayaking or boating of any kind! It's set up of three islands and a large majority of the campsites are right on the water," notes Matt R. about Pawtuckaway State Park Campground.
Swimming with lake views: Multiple swimming spots exist across camping areas near Barrington. "The sites on the water book up quickly but they're perfect for fishing and boating. Also, the view!" shares J L. from Pawtuckaway State Park.
Hiking nearby trails: The forests around camping spots near Barrington, New Hampshire provide hiking opportunities. According to Harry H., at Pawtuckaway, there are "pretty serious trail up and around some mountains, to a fire tower, ponds. There are at least three campground areas, one of which is on an island and has tent sites along the water."
Floating down rivers: Water activities beyond lakes are available. Ben J. from Salmon Falls / Lebanon KOA mentions, "We were able to book last minute and got a great tenting site, next to a running river that was great to sleep to... There's a water slide, mini golf, ropes course, river access, and much more."
What campers like
Quieter camping seasons: Many campers appreciate visiting in non-peak times. "We went in early May, when it was still a bit cold at night (in the low 40s) and not many people were around. The campground, though we had neighbors in every adjoining site, was pretty quiet," reports Kris M. from Pawtuckaway.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds near Barrington maintain good standards. At Wellington Camping Park, Harold C. notes, "Nice, quiet campground on the Lamprey River, sites are gravel and sand. Sites are wide I parked my truck next to camper and still had enough space for a safe fire in the pit... The shower/ toilet house was very clean and open for use."
Pet-friendly options: Dog owners have camping choices in the area. Alley H. shares about Wellington Camping Park: "They have a special beach for your dog if you're a puppy owner like me this is one of the only campgrounds that is very pet friendly. They also have free DVD rentals for those rainy days and some games up by the office."
Peaceful waterfront locations: The region offers tranquil water settings. Bob H. says about Ayers Lake Farm Campground: "Small and family owned and operated, this campground offers some of the greatest vistas of a small New Hampshire pond we have seen... this is a quiet, family campground which is perfect for reflection."
What you should know
Seasonal bathroom maintenance: Facility upkeep can vary with season and usage. Jean C. notes about Bear Brook State Park Campground: "It was the final weekend of the season, so that may explain the lack of attention to cleaning and upkeep of the restrooms. Several of the stalls were lacking toilet paper and, although it was nearly empty when I arrived, the bathrooms had little bits of debris scattered on floors and around sinks."
Weather preparation: Be ready for rain in this region. According to Anna C. at Pawtuckaway, even in drier seasons, storms can appear: "After a few hours of constant rain I realized the water runoff from the road above and the driveway all ended up flowing right under our tent into the lake. At least I was able to experience a water bed for the first time in my life."
Noise levels vary: Some campgrounds are quieter than others. Madison G. observed at Pawtuckaway, "This campground is beautiful and in a nice location in the state park but is really crowded in the summer months with large groups of loud children." Another camper mentioned, "Side note... campers aren't respectful of other campers and very noisy here."
Cell service limitations: Digital connectivity is inconsistent. Ray P. reports about Wellington: "Wi-Fi is barely usable after 8am. And phone signal is spotty at best. Had to walk around to find signal for phone call."
Tips for camping with families
Waterfront sites book early: For prime lake access, reserve well ahead. Ellen C. from Pawtuckaway shares, "In 2018 we stayed in sites 110 and our friends stayed in 109 on Big Island. Those were wonderful sites, level with great views of the lake and are situated right across from the bath/shower."
Entertainment options for rainy days: Plan indoor activities. Wellington camper Alley H. mentions, "They also have free DVD rentals for those rainy days and some games up by the office if you have kids its also a wonderful campground."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Look for local animals at campsites. Ellen C. from Pawtuckaway notes, "I forgot the daily visits from the ducks, like clockwork morning and dusk a family of ducks visited looking for grub... Eventually, they realized we were on to them."
Check pool and facility hours: Hours may be limited at some locations. A reviewer at Strafford - Lake Winnipesaukee South KOA mentions, "My only complaint is that the pool doesn't open until 10am and the store doesn't open until 9. Other than that, my family had a great weekend at KOA Strafford!"
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: Choose RV sites based on access and terrain. Jean C. from Bear Brook notes, "Many of the sites are separated from their neighbors by large, downed pine trees. I was in site 38 and found that the little loop to my campsite was tight to exit (I was towing a 14' teardrop, not a big trailer) and I had to be careful to swing wide at the corner."
Seasonal power reliability: RVers should be aware of occasional service interruptions. Alley H. at Wellington Camping Park reports, "Other than loosing power twice due to mother nature its been a pretty good stay."
Hookup variety: Electric and water services differ between campgrounds. Harold C. at Wakeda Campground confirms, "Great employees, clean reliable power. No issues great spread out sites." Wellington's campsites include "water turns on with ball valve, sewer has 2 inlets, electric service was sturdy and proper."
