Camping options near Boscawen, New Hampshire range from rural pond-side sites to more developed mountain facilities within a 30-mile radius. The camping season in this central New Hampshire region typically extends from early May through mid-October, with nighttime temperatures dropping to the low 40s in spring and fall. Most campgrounds offer a mix of wooded and water-adjacent sites with varying levels of privacy and amenities.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: Bear Brook State Park Campground features extensive trail systems specifically designed for mountain biking enthusiasts. "We camped here to check out the mountain bike trails in the park and we're not disappointed on either count. The campground is nice and spacious, well kept and the staff is friendly. The biking trails were a blast," notes Eammon C. Some trails allow horses while others are designated for biking only.
Tubing on the Suncook River: Lazy River Family Campground offers on-site river tubing with shuttle service back to camp. "Whether you're floating down the river (with return transport provided), swimming in the well maintained pool (or chasing your toddler back and forth in the kids pool), enjoying the large wooden playground and field, or sitting back with a drink at your site, there is never a moment of worry or stress," reports Dan M.
Canoe exploration: Multiple campgrounds offer water access with canoe opportunities. At Epsom Valley Campground, campers can use complimentary canoes on the adjacent river. "Our campsite was nice and level, right next to a river (with free canoe use!) and even had hammock trees," mentions Molly G.
Aerial adventures: For families seeking more structured activities, Gunstock Campground offers an aerial obstacle course, mountain coaster, and zipline options directly from the camping area. "It has pretty spacious sites, they have an aerial obstacle course and a mountain coaster, places to swim, music festivals, hiking, etc," explains Kasey H.
What campers like
Waterfront access: Many campgrounds feature direct water access, with Pawtuckaway State Park Campground offering some of the most sought-after waterfront sites. "The sites on the water book up quickly but they're perfect for fishing and boating. Also, the view!" reports J L. These prime locations require reservations well in advance.
Privacy between sites: While site spacing varies widely across campgrounds, Bear Brook State Park Campground offers natural separation. "Located in a 10000 acre forest preserve, the campground is heavily forested and very secluded from civilization. We stayed on site 22, which was spacious and private from the other sites on either side," shares Ellen C.
Reliable facilities: Campers consistently note the cleanliness of facilities as important. At Gunstock Campground, reviews mention "free hot showers that are not dirty" and that the "campground is gated so you have to make sure you keep your key card with you whenever leaving in order to get back in," according to Sara D. and Melissa B. respectively.
Winter camping options: Unlike most regional campgrounds that close after Columbus Day, Granite State Campground offers extended season camping. "New bath houses, New hook-ups on many sites. Close drive to Lake Winnisquam and Winnipesaukee, Close drive to Gunstock Mountain," notes Andrew P.
What you should know
Mosquito season intensity varies: While mosquitoes are common throughout the region, timing affects intensity. Mid-July through August typically sees the highest concentrations, with early season (May) and late season (September-October) offering relief.
Cell coverage patterns: Coverage varies significantly by carrier and terrain. At Sandy Beach Campground, signal strength remains strong due to its proximity to more developed areas, while Bear Brook has spotty service: "For cell service: ATT seems to have pretty decent coverage but not Verizon," reports Utshob A.
Reservation systems vary: Some campgrounds like Pawtuckaway State Park use centralized online booking systems, while others require direct contact. One camper noted frustration with Sandy Beach Campground: "My problem is you need to call into this campsite every time you find something you might want to book just to see if the sites are open or not."
Road noise considerations: Several campgrounds near highways experience some traffic noise. At Lazy River Family Campground, "the sites along the river, while waterfront and nice, do suffer from road noise coming from NH28. Obviously not the campgrounds fault by any means," explains Quinn G.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access options: Multiple campgrounds offer swimming beaches with varying amenities. At Spacious Skies French Pond, one camper shared: "I had a view of the beautiful pond, which is really a lake, and wished I had more time to rent a kayak." Some beaches have dedicated kid zones.
Playground quality: Playgrounds vary significantly between campgrounds. Bear Brook offers multiple play areas, with one camper noting: "I've used both playgrounds both at the campground and at the Catamount Pond beach." Meanwhile, at Lazy River, the "playground is on the beach."
Shower facilities with kids: Family-style bathrooms are available at some locations. "A few modifications. The bathrooms are family style. One family at a time," notes Randy R. about Bear Brook during pandemic operations, though this format continues at several campgrounds.
Halloween camping: Seasonal themed weekends provide unique family experiences. At Keyser Pond Campground, "Halloween themed weekend was so incredibly fun. The seasonal sights go all out!" according to Kelley H.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Many sites throughout the region require leveling blocks. At Pawtuckaway State Park Campground, "sites are generally large and level, many with water access," while at Keyser Pond Campground, "sites not fully level but leveling blocks took care of it," reports Laura M.
Access challenges: Tight turns and narrow roads can present challenges at some campgrounds. At Bear Brook, "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," warns Jean C.
Hook-up reliability: Water and electrical hookups can be inconsistent at some locations. One camper at Lazy River reported, "Electric didn't come right on so my husband called the office and he came right down and fixed it. He apologized as it was there first weekend for the season."
Seasonal site considerations: Several campgrounds host a high percentage of seasonal residents, which affects atmosphere. At Sandy Beach Campground, "The campground is very friendly... a lot of seasonal folks," notes Tammy, while another camper at Keyser Pond observed "It seems like the majority of the sites are seasonals."
