Pawtuckaway State Park and Bear Brook State Park provide popular camping options near Barrington, New Hampshire, located within 20-25 miles of this southern New Hampshire town. Barrington's elevation ranges from 200 to 600 feet above sea level, with summer temperatures typically reaching the mid-80s and winter temperatures often dropping below freezing. The region features multiple ponds and lakes, creating opportunities for water-based recreation alongside traditional camping options including unique yurt accommodations.
What to do
Kayaking and canoeing: Pawtuckaway State Park offers excellent water access with numerous lakefront sites. "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.
Mountain biking: Bear Brook State Park features extensive trail systems popular with cyclists. "Mountain biking is awesome here, can ride right off the campground and onto the trails!" reports Kimberly R. about Bear Brook State Park Campground.
Beach swimming: Several campgrounds near Barrington offer swimming beaches with designated areas. "The beach was clean. The small store is well stocked. You can rent kayaks here. Lots of small people powered boats on the lake," shares Susan B. about Pawtuckaway State Park.
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Lakefront camping spots tend to book quickly but provide direct water access. "The sites on the water book up quickly but they're perfect for fishing and boating. Also, the view!" explains J L. about Pawtuckaway State Park.
Wildlife viewing: The forests and wetlands around Barrington host diverse wildlife. "Walking around we saw wild turkeys, bunnies, and a hummingbird," reports Pawsfuradventure T. about Wakeda Campground.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept bathrooms and shower facilities. "The bathrooms are modern and spotless. Owners on site are wonderful. The pond is tranquil and our site was right on the pond," shares Pat about Beaver Dam Campground.
What you should know
Site selection matters: Campsite quality and privacy varies widely within each campground. "Definitely do your research on the different site numbers because some sites are much more private and scenic than others," advises Anna C. about Pawtuckaway State Park.
Seasonal considerations: Some campgrounds implement seasonal restrictions. "Tried to plan ahead this year and get a prime site to learn they don't allow dogs anywhere in the campground during summer months," reports Erin W. about Pawtuckaway State Park.
Yurt camping options: For those seeking yurt camping near Barrington, New Hampshire, the Lebanon, Maine area offers several options. "This Campground is family friendly and has a lot to offer. Our camping group consisted of children from the ages of 8-17 yrs old. No one was bored," notes J B. about Salmon Falls / Lebanon KOA.
Tips for camping with families
Water parks and pools: Several campgrounds feature extensive water recreation. "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!" shares Samantha N. about Salmon Falls River RV Resort.
Playground access: Consider campsite proximity to play areas. "It's across the street from the playground. I'd avoid site 93 because it is so close to the playground and the fire ring placement makes it seem like families enjoying the playground will be tempted to walk through your site," warns Jean C. about Bear Brook State Park.
Camping store amenities: On-site stores provide convenience for forgotten items. "The convenience store at the campground had essentially everything you would need for a good camping trip," explains Anna C. about Pawtuckaway State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Some campgrounds offer spacious sites while others are more compact. "Half of the park is seasonal campers (which is a lot more cramped and more junked up) and the other half is for transients. The two sides are separated by a tree line where the tent sites are located," notes Nancy W. about Sea Coast Camping and RV Resort.
Hookup quality: Water and electrical services vary between campgrounds. "Some of the best clear, clean, drinking water at high pressure we have come across. Great access to beaches, numerous eateries and shopping minutes away," reports Chuck H. about Sea Coast Camping and RV Resort.
Turning radius: Access roads and site entrances can be challenging for larger rigs. "The roads in the park are fairly narrow and we had to drive over the grass across from our site in order to back in," explains Nancy W. about Sea Coast Camping and RV Resort.
