Best Campgrounds near Candia, NH

The Candia, New Hampshire area features multiple established campgrounds within a 15-mile radius, including Pawtuckaway State Park and Bear Brook State Park. These parks offer a range of accommodation options from traditional tent sites to RV camping with hookups, and several properties include cabin rentals. Most campgrounds in this region operate seasonally, typically from May through October, with Pawtuckaway and Bear Brook providing access to hiking trails, swimming areas, and natural landscapes characteristic of southern New Hampshire's forests and lakes.

Camping availability generally follows a predictable seasonal pattern, with most facilities closing after Columbus Day weekend and reopening in early May. Many campgrounds require advance reservations, particularly for weekend stays during the peak summer months of June through August. Most established sites provide at least basic amenities like picnic tables and fire rings, while facilities such as showers, flush toilets, and electric hookups vary by location. Several campgrounds, including Bear Brook State Park, feature family-friendly facilities with playgrounds and swimming beaches. According to one visitor, "Bear Brook State Park is great because there is probably a campsite for everyone. The sites were a little close and difficult to set up with more than one tent in our specific campsite."

Campground reviews consistently highlight the natural setting and recreational opportunities available in the region. Bear Brook State Park receives particular praise for its extensive trail system suitable for hiking and mountain biking. Campers frequently mention the park's swimming areas and spacious sites as highlights. Several campgrounds in the area feature water access, including swimming beaches and boat launches. Proximity to trails represents another common theme in visitor feedback, with many campers appreciating the ability to hike directly from their campsites. While most campgrounds provide adequate space between sites, privacy levels vary significantly across different camping areas. One camper noted, "Some sites are right on top of each other, but if you can get a site in a more secluded spot it's very nice."

Best Camping Sites Near Candia, New Hampshire (183)

    1. Pawtuckaway State Park Campground

    44 Reviews
    Raymond, NH
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 895-3031

    $29 - $140 / night

    "Driving around this past weekend I did notice that some of the sites had damp spots; site 71 was the worst with deep mud on the long approach."

    "My first time experiencing a park in the New Hampshire Park system. We went down with a group. Pawtuckaway State Park offers a variety of landscapes, with something to do and see for everyone."

    2. Bear Brook State Park Campground

    28 Reviews
    Candia, NH
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 485-9869

    $29 - $45 / night

    "Tucked away in what feels like the middle of nowhere New Hampshire is it's largest state park. Bear Brook is full of trails, ponds and a fairly large campground."

    "Site 91 is near the entrance, but large and set back from the camp road, so it offers some extra seclusion. It’s across the street from the playground."

    3. Calef Lake Camping Area

    7 Reviews
    Auburn, NH
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 483-8282

    $20 - $40 / night

    "Beautiful location in southern NH! Located Beside a lake, The water is great for swimming, and the playground is absolutely perfect for kids and adults alike."

    "They originally booked us on a site so small, our tent wouldn’t even fit so we weren’t going to be able to have a fire because our tent was so close to it."

    4. Epsom Valley Campground

    8 Reviews
    Epsom, NH
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 736-9758

    $35 - $165 / night

    "I enjoyed the hiking trails in the back and a pretty good amount of things to do near by. Being able to walk to a store and restaurant is great."

    "We only wanted to stay for one and when we arrived, the older women drove me around in the golf cart to see which site would best suit us and I just thought it was the sweetest thing!"

    5. Lazy River Family Campground

    7 Reviews
    Epsom, NH
    13 miles
    +1 (603) 798-5900

    $26 - $30 / night

    "Saturday rolled around and some noisier guests came in for the night, they were several sites away and sounded like they were having a great time, didn't bother us."

    "The family will definitely be making a few return trips, especially with the reasonable drive from the boston area to the grounds."

    6. Wakeda Campground, LLC

    16 Reviews
    Exeter, NH
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 772-5274

    $48 - $97 / night

    "We had bathrooms located near our site. They were four separate bathrooms that had a sink and toilet and were clean. They did offer showers in another area but I did not use them."

    "Our full hookup site was very close to other sites, so unfortunately we had to deal with some noise issues."

    7. Hidden Valley RV and Golf Park

    4 Reviews
    Derry, NH
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 887-3767

    8. Pine Acres Resort

    3 Reviews
    Raymond, NH
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "Swimming, fishing, hiking, climbing (near by), biking. What ever your into its here. Volleyball, softball, tent sites, cabins, RV sites..seriously all the amenities."

    9. Wellington Camping Park

    5 Reviews
    Lee, NH
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 659-5051

    $45 - $55 / night

    "Had to walk around to find signal for phone call."

    "Sites are wide I parked my truck next to camper and still had enough space for a safe fire in the pit."

    10. Circle 9 Ranch Campground

    6 Reviews
    Epsom, NH
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 736-3111
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Recent Reviews near Candia, NH

790 Reviews of 183 Candia Campgrounds


  • Marc D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 16, 2025

    Gunstock Campground

    Great Spot

    Fairly extensive camp ground associated with Gunstock ski area on central New Hampshire. We arrived without a reservation a bit after the office closed, but Elena, the manager came out to let us in and allowed us to check in. She was great. Dogs must have proof of rabies vaccine. Very nice showers. Beautiful fall colors.

  • Lin C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 10, 2025

    Spacious Skies French Pond

    Best Camp in the area

    I am enjoying this camp still, even after 6 months. Management is wonderful and attentive. They take great care of the whole camp and us campers. Fun events are scheduled on the regular!

  • Anonymous A.
    Oct. 8, 2025

    Libbys Oceanside Camp

    Mesmerizing Experience Stunning Sunsets & Sunrises right from your campsite

     Libby's Oceanfront Campground York, Maine gives campers a mesmerizing coastline scene experience' you will experience stunning sunsets and sunrises over the horizon of the Atlantic Ocean' Sitting in your chair appreciating the tranquil and serene view. You are steps away from the beach from the time you arrive to the time you departed the staff is always available and always willing to help, answer any questions and give recommendations where to go eat and shop. Very clean restrooms, clean showers, clean laundry room. We enjoyed watching the surfers right from our campsite. Nubble Light house is minutes away from the campsites you can see the lighthouse from the campsite. 

    A great place to eat breakfast were the locals go is called Ricks Blue Jay Cafe minutes away on US1 fabulous food.  Go to Granite Whale Watching at Rye, Maine, visit Beach town village in York Maine great little shops and ice cream shops.

    We highly recommended this campground we will definitely return! :-)

  • Julie A.
    Sep. 30, 2025

    Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park™ Camp Resort, Lakes Region

    Downhill since new management

    Yogi’s Jellystone Park– Milton, New Hampshire: Seasonal Camper Review I have been camping at Yogi’s Jellystone Park in Milton for five years, including the last two as a seasonal camper. Unfortunately, my recent experiences under new management have been disappointing and frustrating. Pet Fence Policy and Safety Concerns
At the start of this season, the new general manager, Amanda, instructed me to remove my pet fence, citing liability issues. Despite my having signed a waiver absolving the park of responsibility for my dog’s actions, she insisted on its removal without providing a clear explanation. I complied reluctantly, only to observe many other campsites retaining similar pet fences throughout the season, including one seasonal camper who kept theirs up all season and transient sites with fences as well. This inconsistent enforcement of rules is unfair and undermines trust. After seeing others with pet fences, I reinstated mine to protect my dog, especially after two incidents where loose dogs entered my site and charged at my dog. Amanda then threatened me with non-renewal of my seasonal contract if I did not remove the fence again, forcing me to comply once more. I wrote to corporate regarding this issue since Amanda was of no help but never heard back from corporate. Loss of Seasonal Site and Corporate Decisions
Yogi’s removed nine seasonal sites this year, including mine, with little warning. This decision affects long-term campers, some with over 20 years of history at the park. It appears motivated by corporate interests, favoring transient sites or cabins, which generate more revenue. The loss of a seasonal site after investing time, effort, and money into making it beautiful is deeply disheartening and reflects poor management priorities. Entertainment and Atmosphere
Adult entertainment offerings have drastically declined. This year’s highlight was a 30-minute Saturday night hayride, with no live bands in the pavilion throughout the entire season. Under previous management, live music was a regular and enjoyable feature. The lack of engaging activities diminishes the overall campground experience. Myself and other campers offered suggestions to management regarding entertainment for adults but they didn't take any of our suggestions. Bear Interaction
Despite the park’s theme, sightings of Yogi Bear are rare. On one occasion, a golf cart carrying excited children stopped to see Yogi Bear, but the character ignored them and drove past without interaction, which was very disappointing. Management and Staff Attitude
Amanda, the general manager, presents as unapproachable and aloof. She did not introduce herself to seasonal campers at the beginning of the season, many of whom do not even know what she looks like and the camping season ends in just a couple of weeks. Most staff members also exhibit a snobbish attitude, often failing to acknowledge campers, which creates an unwelcoming environment. Cost and Recommendation
The campground is overpriced relative to the quality of experience and level of service provided. Given the inconsistent rule enforcement, loss of seasonal sites, diminished entertainment, and poor management attitude, I cannot recommend Yogi’s Jellystone Park in Milton NH Those interested in a Yogis campground should consider other locations.

  • S
    Sep. 26, 2025

    Salisbury Beach State Reservation

    Only a 4 because of out of stater price

    Campsites are close together, but the beach is amazing. Especially in the off season.

  • Mindie C.
    Sep. 20, 2025

    Hanscom AFB FamCamp

    Great stop

    Lovely campground. Clean, good WiFi. Kind campers. Will be back


Guide to Candia

Campsites near Candia, New Hampshire typically operate within the temperate climate zone of southern New Hampshire, where summer temperatures average 75-85°F during peak camping months. The area sits at approximately 400-600 feet above sea level, with small hills and glacial features characterizing the terrain. Most campsites in this region have sandy or loamy soil that drains well after rainfall, though some lower areas may retain moisture longer.

What to do

Waterfront activities: At Pawtuckaway State Park Campground, campers can rent canoes and kayaks for exploring the lake. "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," notes camper Matt R.

Golfing options: The Hidden Valley RV and Golf Park offers a unique camping and golfing combination with 9 or 18-hole options. "The main attraction of this campground is the golf course of 9 or 18 holes. There is a pro shop, golf cart rentals, etc," explains Christy C.

Swimming beaches: Most campgrounds in the area offer swimming options, with Lazy River Family Campground providing both river swimming and a pool complex. "Beautiful pool, very popular with families; there's a kiddie pool, too," notes Jean C.

What campers like

Waterfront sites: Lake access sites at Pawtuckaway are consistently mentioned as standouts. "The sites on the water book up quickly but they're perfect for fishing and boating. Also, the view!" shares camper J L. These premium waterfront sites typically book 3-6 months in advance during summer.

Private wooded campsites: Wakeda Campground offers heavily wooded sites with natural separation. "We were overwhelmed by the beautiful massive forest. The campground was splendid with old tall, pine trees everywhere," reports Pawsfuradventure T.

River access: Several campgrounds feature river access, including Wellington Camping Park. "The tent sites are set up right on the water. They also have a special beach for your dog if you're a puppy owner like me this is one of the only campgrounds that is very pet friendly," explains Alley H.

Wildlife viewing: Many campgrounds offer opportunities to spot local wildlife. "Walking around we saw wild turkeys, bunnies, and a hummingbird," notes one Wakeda Campground visitor.

What you should know

Off-season considerations: Most campgrounds operate from May through October with reduced services early and late in the season. "In 2013 site 25 was a little challenging since it was on a downgrade and we were hit with a an unexpected 36 hour downpour and there was only one suitable spot for our tent since the terrain is very rocky," reports Ellen C. about Pawtuckaway.

Bathroom facilities vary: Quality and availability of bathrooms can differ greatly between campgrounds. "The bathhouses offer coin-operated showers; I noticed a price difference between the two of them, so went with the less expensive option!" notes Jean C. about Bear Brook State Park Campground.

COVID-19 protocols: Some campgrounds implemented lasting changes due to the pandemic. "A few modifications. The bathrooms are family style. One family at a time. Check in is at the beginning of the 3-mile road to the campground and the camp store is a walk-up window only," reports Randy R. about Bear Brook.

Noise levels: Weekend noise levels can affect some campgrounds more than others. "This campground is beautiful and in a nice location in the state park but is really crowded in the summer months with large groups of loud children," says Madison G. about Pawtuckaway.

Tips for camping with families

Playground access: For families with children, Epsom Valley Campground offers organized activities and a playground. "The WILDERNESS area is AMAZING little tent sites! They were secluded but still had full hookups. This campground truly has something for everyone," shares Molly G.

Swimming options: Multiple swimming areas suit different age groups. "We had such a fun time and our dog loves it! The only bad part is we were very far from the bathrooms and tons of mosquitoes," notes Rachel P. about Calef Lake Camping Area.

Site selection for kids: Choose sites near amenities when camping with children. "We stayed in sites 110 and our friends stayed in 109 on Big Island. Those were wonderful sites, level with great views of the lake and are situated right across from the bath/shower," recommends Ellen C.

Wildlife encounters: Many children enjoy the local wildlife interactions. "I forgot the daily visits from the ducks, like clockwork morning and dusk a family of ducks visited looking for grub," shares a Pawtuckaway camper.

Tips from RVers

Hookup availability: Electric and water hookups are available at most campgrounds, but sewer connections vary. "Our site was on a little creek. Friendly, helpful staff. Quiet nights, easy check-in," notes Sara D. about Calef Lake Camping Area.

Site access challenges: Some campgrounds have narrow access roads that can challenge larger rigs. "The water and electric were between our site and the next on one side and sewer between our site and the one on the other side. This made it difficult to place our trailer on the slanted site and reach all services," shares Carry M. about Hidden Valley RV Park.

Cell coverage: Connectivity varies significantly across the region's campgrounds. "Wi-Fi is barely usable after 8am. And phone signal is spotty at best. Had to walk around to find signal for phone call," reports Ray P. about Wellington Camping Park.

Seasonal considerations: Many sites have limited level areas for larger RVs. "Camp roads would benefit from grading, but they're navigable," notes one camper about Lazy River Family Campground.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find camping in Candia, NH?

While Candia itself has limited camping options, the surrounding area offers several excellent choices. Pawtuckaway State Park Campground is nearby with wooded sites, many offering water access. The park features swimming, hiking, kayaking, biking, fishing, and bouldering opportunities. Another option is Roots and Wings Homestead, a newer private camping spot offering a peaceful retreat in rural New Hampshire. For additional options, Calef Lake Camping Area in nearby Auburn provides drive-in access with reservable sites and standard amenities.

What amenities are available at Bear Brook State Park near Candia?

Bear Brook State Park Campground offers a variety of family-friendly amenities as New Hampshire's largest state park. The campground features hiking trails, swimming beaches, a camp store, play structures for children, and even a small baseball diamond. The park's natural setting provides a peaceful camping experience despite feeling tucked away in the wilderness. With multiple ponds throughout the property, visitors can enjoy water activities and fishing. The trail system is extensive, making it perfect for day hikers and campers looking to explore the diverse landscape.

Is there RV camping available in Candia, New Hampshire?

Yes, RV camping is available near Candia. Beach Rose RV Park offers a simple, clean environment with a perfect pool setup in a quiet location that's convenient to both beaches and the New Hampshire coastline. Another option is Woodmore Family Campground and RV Park, which provides a friendly atmosphere, clean facilities, and numerous activities. The owners are known for being helpful and welcoming. For those seeking additional RV accommodations, Hidden Valley RV and Golf Park near Derry offers big-rig-friendly sites with full hookups and the added benefit of on-site golfing.