Camping cabins near Canterbury, New Hampshire offer comfortable accommodations in the Lakes Region where elevations range from 500-700 feet above sea level. Located between the White Mountains and the Merrimack Valley, Canterbury experiences distinct seasons with warm summers averaging 80°F and cool autumn nights dropping into the 40s. Winter camping options remain available at select locations, with four-season cabins providing shelter during New Hampshire's snowy months.
What to do
Swimming access: Bear Brook State Park Campground provides multiple swimming options with a dedicated beach at Catamount Pond. "The swimming area at the pond looked very inviting for summer time campers," notes Ellen C., who enjoyed the park's 10,000-acre forest preserve.
Mountain biking: Trails at Bear Brook State Park Campground connect directly to campsites. "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," shares Eammon C.
Kayaking and fishing: Pawtuckaway State Park Campground offers water-based activities with wheelchair accessible fishing docks. "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," recommends Harry H.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Many campers appreciate secluded cabin locations away from neighboring sites. "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," writes Gabby M. about Bear Brook State Park Campground.
Year-round camping options: Meredith Woods Four Season Camping provides winter cabin accommodations with maintained access. "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," reports Mara S.
Family bathroom facilities: Some campgrounds offer family-style bathrooms during peak season. "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," notes Randy R. about Bear Brook State Park during COVID protocols.
What you should know
Site variations: Cabin locations vary significantly across campgrounds with waterfront options booking quickly. "The sites on the water book up quickly but they're perfect for fishing and boating. Also, the view!" explains J L. about Pawtuckaway State Park Campground.
Cell service coverage: Connectivity varies by location and carrier. "The campground is easy to get to, only about half an hour from Manchester. For cell service: ATT seems to have pretty decent coverage but not Verizon," reports Utshob A. about Bear Brook State Park Campground.
Campground ownership changes: Several properties have undergone management transitions. "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. FireWood supply 'iffy' so brought some locally sourced food," shares John L. about Clearwater Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Consider indoor recreation: Clearwater Campground offers indoor pool access shared with Meredith Woods. "The indoor pool on the other side of the road at the sister campground Meredith Woods was splendid. I love the idea of being able to go swimming even if the weather is a bit crummy," notes Brandon C.
Check playground accessibility: Evaluate playground equipment suitability for your children's ages. "The staff was extremely kind. The site was clean and efficient. Indoor pool was a plus in cold/rainy days. Family with kids the only down, wish the playground was bigger, and height smaller. Not a structure for small children," advises Dennis O. about Meredith Woods.
Plan for wet weather: New Hampshire weather can change quickly, requiring indoor options. "We enjoyed our stay. The first site we got was way too small for our tent and they accommodated us and gave us a choice of two others to pick from. A lot of seasonal people but friendly. Playground is on the beach," shares Nicole about Sandy Beach Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Prepare leveling blocks for uneven terrain. "Lot was not level. Lot was roomy," notes Eric H. about Clearwater Campground. Many cabin areas share access roads with RV sites that may have similar terrain issues.
Tight access roads: Some campgrounds have narrow entrance roads requiring careful navigation. "I had to be careful to swing wide at the corner. This site backed onto an open field with a backstop for baseball/softball," reports Jean C. about camping at Bear Brook State Park Campground.
Campground facilities: Gunstock Campground offers extensive amenities for larger groups. "Very well kept and quiet grounds. The lot I was in was not wooded but still quiet. Check in was quick and friendly. All other guests were friendly as well. I'll be back for sure," shares Ryan F.