Camping opportunities around Bennington, New Hampshire center primarily in the Monadnock Region, which sits at elevations between 800-1,200 feet and receives approximately 45 inches of annual rainfall. Fall camping season features average temperatures ranging from 40-65°F, while summer months stay relatively mild with daytime highs rarely exceeding 85°F. Most campgrounds in this area maintain heavily wooded sites with varying degrees of privacy and many offer pond or lake access for water recreation.
What to do
Hiking to mountain summits: Mount Monadnock, accessible from Gilson Pond Area Campground, offers multiple trail options. "The ranger at the trailhead office recommended that we hike up the White Dot Trail (2 miles) and down the White Cross Trail (2.5 miles) so that we could do the steepest route on the way up and take it easy on the way down," explains one camper who completed the trek in about 4 hours starting at 8 am.
Kayaking on secluded waterways: Pillsbury State Park Campground features multiple small ponds perfect for paddling. "Kayaking on May Pond and discovering little islands and coves was a highlight," notes one visitor. Rentals are available on-site, though many campers bring their own watercraft for exploring.
River floating: During warmer months, tube down the Ashuelot River at a leisurely pace. "We took a lazy tube ride from one side of the campground to the other. It has been quite dry in the area, so they are experiencing a drought. However, a little rain in the week got the river moving a bit," shares a visitor who enjoyed drifting around the campground.
What campers like
Exceptionally clean facilities: Cold Springs Camp Resort maintains well-kept bathhouses and pool areas. "Very clean and well maintained grounds and buildings," notes one camper. Another adds, "Beautiful, extremely clean bathrooms, reasonably priced little cafe, big camp store, very friendly staff."
Multiple swimming options: Several campgrounds offer multiple water recreation facilities. One camper describes Cold Springs as having "7 pools which include 2 hot tubs, a small 2x2 pool for kiddos, 1 adult only pool and 3 family pools." These varied options accommodate different age groups and preferences.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Moose, loons, and other wildlife sightings enhance the camping experience. "We enjoyed our time here and will be back! Close by to Miller state park (NH's oldest state park), Garwin falls (beautiful little water falls you can swim in)," reports a camper at Greenfield State Park Campground.
What you should know
Seasonality affects site availability: Most campgrounds operate from May through mid-October, with specific opening dates varying by property. "We visited very early in the season, so the main tent camping loops were blocked off for maintenance," notes one early-season camper at Greenfield State Park.
Cash requirements: Some state parks operate on cash-only systems. "Everything is cash here, no cards accepted except when reserving a site online," explains a visitor to Pillsbury State Park.
Leech warnings in natural swimming areas: While lakes and ponds offer swimming opportunities, some have unwanted inhabitants. "Swimming in the stream is safe but the lake is loaded with leeches!" warns a visitor to Pillsbury State Park.
Cell service variability: Connectivity differs significantly throughout the region. "Cell reception for Verizon isn't great," notes one camper, while others mention finding specific locations within campgrounds where service improves.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Spacious Skies Seven Maples offers family-friendly water features. "The pool is amazing for kids of all ages with water slides and a splash area. The playground is really big with plenty to do. There's also a fishing pond and short hiking/biking trails," shares one family.
Playground facilities: Multiple campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. "They have a big slide and what looks like a splash pad. We enjoyed the arcade while waiting for our laundry to finish," reports a family who stayed in a cabin at Seven Maples.
Animal attractions: Small petting zoos provide entertainment for children. "We enjoyed their small but nice petting zoo of a few goats and a horse," mentions a visitor, giving children an opportunity to interact with farm animals during their stay.
Seasonal activities: Halloween weekends in August offer unique experiences. "We went for halloween weekend in August and their haunted house was incredible for a campground!" reports one family, highlighting special events that extend beyond typical camping activities.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Autumn Hills Campground offers varied terrain for different preferences. "Situated primarily on a hillside, some of the sites are tricky to navigate with a camper, but it also minimizes the amount of neighbors you have if you are looking to have some quiet time," advises an experienced RVer.
Hook-up limitations: Water systems can be unreliable at some locations. "We arrived and were told our site wouldn't be providing enough power, could not run all my campers amenities while my 20 amp designated outlet at home runs my entire camper with no issue," shares one RVer, suggesting bringing adapters and being prepared for power limitations.
Narrow access roads: Some campgrounds present navigation challenges. "Roads are very narrow. Made it hard to back in our spot," notes one RV owner, suggesting arriving during daylight hours and requesting assistance from staff if needed, particularly for larger rigs.
