Camping cabins near Bartlett, New Hampshire sit within the Mount Washington Valley, with elevations ranging from 680 to 1,000 feet above sea level. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing, while summer days reach comfortable 70-80°F ranges, making seasonal camping preparations essential. Most cabin rentals in the area provide electrical outlets but require campers to bring their own bedding, cooking utensils, and personal items.
What to do
Tubing on the Saco River: During summer months, rent tubes and enjoy the gentle current at Eastern Slope Camping Area. "The river is right there and you can splash around in it," notes Matt R., who visited specifically for Saco River activities. The campground provides convenient river access with two separate beaches.
Mountain biking trails: Access numerous trails directly from Moose Brook State Park Campground, located 30 minutes north of Bartlett. "There are also many hiking trails in the park and a ton of great mountain biking terrain in the park and accessible from the park. The local Coos Cycling Club maintains the trails and is constantly improving and creating more terrain," explains Sarah C.
Winter activities: While many campgrounds close after October, Moose Brook trails remain open year-round. "While the campground is closed in the winter, the trails are open to fat biking, snowshoeing and cross country skiing," reports Sarah C., providing options for off-season outdoor recreation near cabin rental locations.
What campers like
River access and rope swings: Saco River Camping Area provides direct river entry points popular with visitors. "The camp sits on the saco river and offer swimming, canoeing, rope swinging and fishing depending on when you there," explains Daniel S. Their shuttle service takes campers upstream for float trips that end right back at the campground.
Dog-friendly accommodations: Pet owners appreciate designated amenities at Chocorua KOA, located about 20 minutes from Bartlett. "This is an incredibly dog-friendly campground with a fun dog park, a special swimming pond just for dogs and doggie day care available. This is one of the most pet loving campgrounds we've ever camped in and our pup loved it!!" reports Erin M.
Secluded wilderness camping: For those seeking more primitive cabin experiences, the White Mountains offer backcountry options. "Sometimes if you take a little hike into the woods and look around, you find a sweet camping spot for the night," describes Sarah C. about her experience in White Mountain National Forest. These remote sites require proper Leave No Trace practices.
What you should know
Height restrictions for RVs: Some covered bridges limit access to certain campgrounds. "Covered bridge has 7.9' height restriction from the main scenic highway. We had to go out to Conway and drive back in," warns Jae H. about Covered Bridge Campground.
Wildlife considerations: Bears are active in the area, requiring proper food storage. "They circled our camper at night. It was incredible to watch. Of course we never left any food out!" reports Liz S. about her experience at Glen Ellis Family Campground. Many cabins provide secure storage options or bear boxes.
Seasonal water access: Stream water sources can dry up in late summer. "There is a small stream to pump water from but it is seasonal," notes Asher K. about backcountry options. Cabin campers should confirm water availability when booking during dry periods.
Tips for camping with families
Activity schedules: Jellystone Park Glen Ellis provides extensive children's programming. "It was Christmas in July week, and they had so many events planned for the week. Included in your stay is Mini golf, shuffle board, the Waterpark, hayrides, movie night, magicians and more," shares Iris A., highlighting the range of included activities.
Water features: Select cabins near water amenities for built-in entertainment. "We loved the river and playground! Staff were awesome," notes Stacey about her family's stay at Lost River Valley Campground. Many families appreciate the natural swimming options when temperatures rise.
Quiet hours enforcement: Be aware that staff strictly monitor noise levels after designated times. "The security people have been extremely aggressive to us... The woman got right in our face yelling at us and telling us that she wasn't leaving until the fire is out including the coals," reports Jeremy P. about his experience at Danforth Bay, highlighting the importance of following campground rules.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Many waterfront cabin and RV sites require significant leveling equipment. "The only level part of the site is away from the deck and water. My wife wanted to get the camper up close to the deck... which meant I had a lot more leveling to do. And when I say a lot, I mean my 5" drive on leveling blocks weren't enough and I had to put them on top of a 2x8 to level the camper out," explains Michael K. about his stay at Chocorua KOA.
Road width limitations: Access roads to some campgrounds can be narrow. "There is about a 1/2 mile that is mostly one lane (with a drop off on one side) and if someone is coming decisions have to be made," notes Norma S. about Covered Bridge Campground, indicating the need for careful driving when towing or in larger vehicles.
Cell service variability: Connectivity varies significantly by location. "Very spotty Verizon cell coverage and no TMobile service at all. Better coverage for both carriers near the top of the boulder loop trail," reports Jae H., providing useful information for those needing to stay connected while at their cabin.
