Surrounded by the White Mountains and Lakes Region, glamping near Bristol offers both forest and water-based experiences with seasonal availability typically running from May through October. Winter camping is limited to select locations with the proper facilities. Temperatures range from 70-85°F in summer to below freezing in winter, with early summer and fall being the most comfortable camping seasons.
What to do
River activities: At Baker River Campground, visitors can enjoy swimming and tubing along the scenic waterway. "We ended tubing down the river one day. The staff was very nice. Close to a beautiful hiking spot and some stores, restaurants and gas stations," reports one camper who stayed at site 10.
Rock climbing: Rumney is a prime destination for climbers staying in the area. "Nice private campground. Bathrooms were clean and recently remodeled. Host is extremely nice and welcoming. We have stayed here on multiple occasions when in the Rumney area for climbing and biking," notes a visitor at Baker River Campground.
Winter recreation: Meredith Woods Four Season Camping Area offers year-round accessibility with winter-specific amenities. "Snow ploughing happens regularly and reliably. Indoor pool and hot tub are amazing on a snowy frigid winter day. Utility sink for dishes available in heated bathhouse," explains a winter visitor.
Hiking trails: Multiple camping areas provide access to mountain trails. "5 - 4000 foot mountains to hike," mentions a camper at Waterville Campground, highlighting the numerous elevation options within driving distance of Bristol.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Moose Hillock Camping Resort receives praise for spacious campsites. "It is absolutely GORGEOUS up here. Stunning. The sites are private and wooded, the grounds are beautiful, the natural pond is a great morning excursion. It's one of the prettiest campgrounds I've ever seen," one reviewer shared.
Beach and swimming areas: Access to natural water features rates highly among campers. "The river is about thigh deep and you can easily walk in it/swim at portions," reports a visitor at Pine Haven, where many sites feature riverfront access.
Heated pool options: Several campgrounds offer swimming pools for when weather conditions aren't ideal for lake or river swimming. "The pool really is as awesome as it looks," states a Moose Hillock visitor, referring to their distinctive pool with water slides.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and showers are frequently mentioned in positive reviews. "Bathroom facilities were always clean. Staff was friendly and accommodating. Had a pool on site, but never got the chance to try it out," notes a visitor at Meredith Woods.
What you should know
Seasonal ownership changes: Some campgrounds undergo management transitions that affect the visitor experience. "Now called HUNTERS RUN Rv Park. Good spot, lots of seasonal campers, new corporate owners and it's named Hunter's Run RV Park. Combined with another campground across the street," reports a recent Meredith Woods visitor.
Bear activity: Wildlife encounters require proper food storage and awareness. A camper at Waterville Campground shared: "The first day I got there at around 5:30 I was sitting in my hammock reading when a black bear cub strolled through my campsite. We scared the poop out of each other."
Site spacing varies: Proximity to other campers differs substantially between campgrounds. "Sites are so close together that it is uncomfortable. Despite this, we had to park and haul our gear basically right through other people's campground to get to our site," warns a Baker River visitor.
Water quality concerns: Some campgrounds have issues with water systems. "The water is very brown/rusty. We didn't feel comfortable drinking it," notes a Waterville Campground visitor, suggesting campers bring their own drinking water.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. "They have a playground area for kids, horseshoe area and a net for volleyball next to the bathroom/showers," mentions a Baker River visitor, describing amenities beyond water recreation.
Activity options: White Lake State Park Campground provides multiple recreation choices. "You can rent canoes, hike around the lake, and the kids could safely ride their bikes around the campground. There is a campground store by the beach," notes a regular family visitor.
Site selection for bathroom proximity: For families with young children, bathroom location matters. "I had a site next to the bathroom, which was very helpful and I felt confident letting my children go to the bathroom alone," shares a White Lake State Park visitor.
Kid-friendly water areas: Shallow swimming areas provide safer options for families. "The lake is clear, the swimming area is shallow for quite a distance so you can feel comfortable with kids," reports another White Lake State Park camper.
Tips from RVers
Winter RV considerations: Full-service winter camping requires special attention. "We stayed for a winter weekend, they have a few transient sites that can accommodate RV's year round. There are a ton of full time seasonal RV's as many people use this campground as a base for snow machining," notes a Meredith Woods visitor.
Generator restrictions: Campgrounds enforce varying rules on generator use. "Only issue is u can only run generator 4 hours a day," mentions an RV camper at Baker River Campground, indicating the need to plan power usage accordingly.
Hillside navigation: Terrain can impact RV positioning and access. "The hilly terrain is insaneeee! If you have never been before, book a sight as close as possible to the pool and office, because the further you get, the higher the altitude," advises a Moose Hillock visitor with a family.
Seasonal site availability: Long-term options exist at several campgrounds near Bristol. "This is an amazing campground to be a Seasonal Camper! The seasonals are friendly. The campground is beautiful & well maintained," reports a visitor at Harbor Hill Camping Area.
