Bear Brook State Park provides approximately 10,000 acres of forested land for camping near Bow, New Hampshire. Located within a 30-minute drive of Manchester, most campgrounds in the region remain open from May through mid-October. Winter camping isn't available at state parks, though some private campgrounds offer extended seasons.
What to do
Kayaking and fishing access: Bear Brook State Park Campground offers multiple water activities with well-maintained launches. "The sandy beach is nice but the swimming area is quite weedy," notes Tammy at Sandy Beach Campground, suggesting kayakers might prefer the clearer water.
Mountain biking trails: The trail system connects directly to camping areas. "Mountain biking is awesome here, can ride right off the campground and onto the trails! Will def be coming back," shares Kimberly R. from Bear Brook State Park.
Geocaching opportunities: At Bear Brook State Park Campground, "Numerous trails call out of exploration, around ponds and up and down hills, with geocaches to be found (if you can, download the info and maps before you get to the park to be sure you have the necessary info)," recommends Jean C.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds offer swimming in natural settings. "There are at least three campground areas, one of which is on an island and has tent sites along the water. If possible, reserve those to ensure the best spots," suggests Harry H. about Pawtuckaway State Park.
What campers like
Spacious wooded sites: Greenfield State Park Campground offers natural privacy. "The camping spots are spread out enough that you feel like you have privacy, even if you have neighbors. All spots come with a picnic table and fire pit," shares Hailey D.
Clean, regularly maintained bathrooms: Multiple campgrounds prioritize facility cleanliness. "The bathhouses are probably the best maintained of any campground I've stayed at. They're cleaned multiple time a day," notes Daniel J. about Autumn Hills Campground.
Lake and riverside sites: Water proximity is a major appeal. At Pawtuckaway State Park Campground, "The sites on the water book up quickly but they're perfect for fishing and boating. Also, the view!" says J L.
Well-stocked camp stores: Many campgrounds offer on-site shopping. "Store is best I have ever seen. Well stocked with everything you could need," reports Colleen C. about Friendly Beaver Campground.
What you should know
Tick awareness: When camping at dog friendly campgrounds near Bow, bring tick prevention. "We have only one con about the grounds, there were a ton of ticks on the edge of the site," warns Sara D. at Autumn Hills Campground.
Site variability: Terrain and privacy differ significantly between sites. "Mostly level sites sit under towering pines and vary greatly in size. Many of the sites are separated from their neighbors by large, downed pine trees," explains Jean C. about Bear Brook State Park.
Seasonal considerations: Several campgrounds change character by season. "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," reports Kris M. about Pawtuckaway.
Limited cell coverage: Connectivity varies throughout the region. "Cell phone coverage varies from 1-2 bars, not always 4G, on Verizon," notes Jean C. at Bear Brook State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Multiple pool options: Cold Springs Camp Resort offers extensive swimming facilities. "Very family centric, 7 pools which (include 2 hot tubs, a small 2x2 pool for kiddos, 1 adult only pool and 3 family pools)," explains Kara C.
Pet-specific areas: For families camping with dogs, dedicated pet zones help manage pet activity. "They have a nice stretch of sandy beach at the campground as well as canoes and kayaks for rent. The convenience store at the campground had essentially everything you would need for a good camping trip," reports Anna C. about Pawtuckaway State Park.
Playgrounds and activities: Many sites provide kid-friendly equipment. "We've been back her a few times because my girls love it. They have 3 outdoor pools(sports,toddler,regular) plus an indoor pool for rainy or chilly days. They have a few animals the kids can feed. They also have crafts, hayrides and games,playground and other events," shares Kate C. about Friendly Beaver Campground.
Educational opportunities: Some campgrounds feature learning experiences. Bear Brook State Park offers "For history, check out the antique snowmobile museum and the Civilian Conservation Corp(CCC) museum. The CCC built much of the infrastructure here and elsewhere in the country."
Tips from RVers
Site access considerations: Lazy River Family Campground provides varying levels of accessibility. "Camp roads would benefit from grading, but they're navigable," notes Jean C., important for larger rigs.
Hookup availability: Full-service sites are common but not universal. "Sites are nice and the campground is nice and clean," shares Jessica D. about Friendly Beaver Campground, where full hookups are standard at most sites.
Seasonal site options: Long-term stays have dedicated areas. "Most of the sights are long term. Camp was pretty much full, even then it was quiet," observes Harold C. about French Pond campground, noting the separation between transient and seasonal campers.
Sanitary facilities: Most dog friendly campgrounds near Bow maintain dump stations, though quality varies. "To get a shower, you have to journey over to the seasonal loop, which may be a bit of a walk depending on your campsite location. Once there, there's no guarantee a shower will work," cautions Jean C. at Lazy River.
