Camping options near Charlestown, New Hampshire range across three states within a 50-mile radius. The region features elevations from 400-2,000 feet with dense forest cover and several water bodies including the Connecticut River along Charlestown's western boundary. Most campgrounds in this tri-state area operate seasonally from May through mid-October due to New England's cold winters, with average summer temperatures between 70-85°F.
What to do
Swimming at quarries and falls: Jamaica State Park Campground offers access to swimming spots including nearby Hamilton Falls. "There is plenty of trails in the area and you can go to the waterfall/rock slides and take a dip in the pools," notes Jackie G., though caution is advised as "people have lost their lives at these falls" according to Chris D.
Fishing and boating: Sandy Beach Campground in Contoocook features a lake with boat access. "Sandy beach by the water has plenty of room to relax out in the sun as well as launch areas to set out in a paddle boat, canoe or row boat, all available on site," according to Robert M.
Hiking trails: Several campgrounds offer trail access, with Jamaica State Park featuring the West River Trail. "Great hiking or biking along the West River!" reports Chris S., while another visitor mentions the "flat trail and a waterfall near by."
Shopping excursions: Dorset RV Park provides access to Manchester shopping areas. "Great location near a fantastic quarry, country store, and Manchester shopping," writes Rachelle S., with another reviewer noting "Manchester is home to Orvis and there is an interesting fly fishing museum next door."
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Many campers prioritize sites near water. At Jamaica State Park, "We managed to get a prime leanto site right on the river," writes M.A.D. P., who adds "The prime lean-to sites on the water are beautiful and spacious."
Natural isolation: Tree Farm Campground in Springfield offers more secluded camping. "Spacious, wooded sites, super clean...friendly, helpful owners and gorgeous setting!" reports Amanda M., while Elizabeth M. notes "Wooded and trees between sites."
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention bathhouse quality. One reviewer at Tree Farm Campground shared, "The campground is clean and quiet, with sites that are spacious and private," while another noted it had "well-maintained grounds and some cute activities for the younger kids."
Recreation amenities: On-site activities are important to many campers. At Woodmore Family Campground, "they have a great wiffleball park" according to Salvatore P., while Silver Lakes Park Campground offers "a playground, rentable kayaks and canoes, a basketball goal, frisbee golf, corn hole, horseshoes, yard darts etc."
What you should know
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies widely between rv parks near Charlestown, New Hampshire. At Jamaica State Park, a camper noted "no cell service" as part of the experience, considering it "a perfect spot to just unwind from the real world."
Seasonal restrictions: Most campgrounds close by late October. Tree Farm Campground operates "May 10th to Oct 19th" while Sandy Beach Campground runs "May 5 - Oct 10," affecting late-season camping plans.
Reservation requirements: Popular waterfront sites fill quickly. One visitor to Jamaica State Park advised, "Book your site early to get a lean-to or a site near the river...it's stunning in the morning with the mountain mist rolling through!!"
Site privacy variations: Campsite spacing differs significantly between rv parks in the Charlestown area. At Crow's Nest Campground, a camper observed, "The river sites are pretty close together with little privacy," though they noted "Sites 66 & 55 seemed to be the most private."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming areas for children: Several campgrounds offer kid-friendly water access. Crow's Nest Campground features "a nice little swimming area on the river for kids," while Woodmore Family Campground is "right on a lake in the bottom of the beautiful mountain."
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds provide play equipment. Fransheska A. noted Jamaica State Park has a "Fun playground and nature area for kids," making it a "Very family friendly place with beautiful hikes to Hamilton falls."
Safety considerations: Waterfall areas require supervision. At Jamaica State Park, one visitor warned, "People have lost their lives at these falls so be extra cautious with children around the falls," referencing Hamilton Falls, a popular but potentially dangerous attraction.
Proximity to attractions: Chapman Acres offers unique experiences for families. "A hidden path nearby brings you to a canopy covered swing that overlooks the pond. Another path leads you to the canoe access," reports Kathleen W., highlighting the kid-friendly exploration options.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Gravel sites often need adjustment. At Dorset RV Park, RVers noted some sites "definitely were not" level, advising to request specific areas if this is a concern.
Maneuverability challenges: Large rigs face tight turns at some campgrounds. One RVer at Dorset RV Park warned about "Tree placement and a pretty sharp 110+ degree turn makes it challenging to maneuver" for loop sites 8-12, cautioning "I don't think campground staff is familiar with their own campground and that larger rigs are likely to have issue in this loop."
Site sizing inconsistencies: Actual site dimensions sometimes differ from descriptions. One RVer at Dorset RV Park shared, "Initially offered site 1 but wanted to be out of the way. After being on site, my 35' rig wouldn't have fit at all," highlighting the importance of confirming space requirements.
Seasonal site options: Riverbrook RV & Camping Resort accommodates longer stays. "My wife and I spent the month of July at Riverbrook and we couldn't have been happier," reports Corby M., noting "the wifi worked great...especially when compared to other campgrounds we've been to."
