Cabin camping near Bow, New Hampshire provides rustic to modern overnight accommodations across several campgrounds within a 30-mile radius. The region features rolling hills with elevations between 400-800 feet and is characterized by mixed hardwood forests and small lakes. Fall temperatures can drop into the 30s overnight, making cabins particularly appealing during shoulder seasons when tent camping becomes less comfortable.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: Bear Brook State Park Campground offers extensive mountain biking opportunities within a 10,000-acre forest preserve. "The biking trails were a blast. We'll definitely be back again," notes one visitor. The trails can be accessed directly from the campground, allowing riders to start their adventures without driving to trailheads.
Kayaking and canoeing: Pawtuckaway State Park Campground features multiple water access points 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," explains a camper. The park rents canoes and kayaks for those without their own equipment.
Swimming options: Multiple pools are available at Cold Springs Camp Resort, offering different swimming experiences. "They have 3 outdoor pools and 1 indoor pool. Lots of activities for the kids and the bathrooms were pretty clean for a campground," states a visitor. The indoor pool provides swimming options during rainy days when outdoor activities are limited.
What campers like
Private waterfront sites: Many campers appreciate the lakeside cabin locations at Pawtuckaway State Park Campground. "The sites on the water book up quickly but they're perfect for fishing and boating. Also, the view!" reports one camper. These premium sites often require reservations months in advance, particularly for summer weekends.
Clean facilities: Sanitation standards receive high marks at Spacious Skies Seven Maples. "Very clean restrooms no matter what time of day they were always clean and look newer. Pool area was very nice, kids spent hours there," mentions a visitor. The campground maintains multiple bathhouses throughout the property.
Seasonal activities: Many campgrounds offer themed weekends, particularly in autumn. A Friendly Beaver Campground visitor notes: "We went for halloween weekend in August and their haunted house was incredible for a campground!" These special events typically include decorating contests, costume parades, and trick-or-treating opportunities.
What you should know
Cabin availability varies seasonally: Most cabin inventory across the region disappears during peak periods. "We came here after we struck out at Saddleback (about 40 miles east of here, because they were full), and were much happier here than we would have been at Saddleback," explains one Keyser Pond Campground visitor. Bookings should be made 3-6 months ahead for summer weekends.
WiFi and connectivity: Cell service and internet access vary significantly by location. One Bear Brook State Park visitor reports: "Cell phone coverage varies from 1-2 bars, not always 4G, on Verizon." Some campgrounds offer paid WiFi, but signal strength often diminishes at sites furthest from main buildings.
Noise levels: Some cabin areas experience significant ambient noise. "The tent sites are wicked small, packed together and so close to the highway you don't get an ounce of quiet," notes a Keyser Pond Campground reviewer. Requesting cabins away from main roads and recreation areas can help secure quieter accommodations.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation features: Sandy Beach Campground offers multiple water activities for children. "The sandy beach is nice but the swimming area is quite weedy. Our biggest issue though was the over-abundance of gypsy moth worms," explains a visitor. Parents should pack water shoes for children to navigate shoreline conditions.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature playground equipment near cabin clusters. "I was so impressed by how well the grounds were kept and how clean the bathrooms were. The tent sites were large which was great as we had two tents at ours," shares a visitor at Bear Brook State Park Campground. The proximity allows parents to monitor children from cabin porches.
Kid-friendly amenities: Pool facilities specifically designed for children exist at multiple locations. "Great campground for kids newer pool, with slides," states a Seven Maples visitor. Many facilities separate shallow water areas from deeper swimming sections.
Tips from RVers
Site selection challenges: Finding appropriate cabin and RV sites requires research. "The campground is very friendly... a lot of seasonal folks. We had a nice corner site which fit our 34' rig just fine," reports a Sandy Beach Campground visitor. Calling ahead to discuss specific rig dimensions can prevent arrival complications.
Power considerations: Some older cabins have limited electrical capacity. A Seven Maples camper notes: "Had issues with 30 amp service at site was not providing enough power, could not run all my campers amenities." Guests with substantial power requirements should inquire about electrical service details before booking.
Off-season advantages: Visiting during shoulder seasons provides more availability and privacy. "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," explains a Pawtuckaway visitor. Spring and fall weekends often offer easier booking for cabins that sell out during summer.
