Clarksville, New Hampshire sits at approximately 1,700 feet elevation in northern Coos County, where winter temperatures often drop below -30°F and summer days rarely exceed 80°F. The area's remote wilderness connects to an extensive network of ATV trails spanning over 1,000 miles across the North Country, with camping options that remain open from Memorial Day through mid-October. Several campgrounds offer traditional sites alongside cabin and yurt camping near Clarksville's forested landscape.
What to do
Fly fishing spots: The Connecticut River and surrounding waterways offer premier angling opportunities. Mollidgewock State Park Campground provides direct river access. "Caught about a dozen small rainbows anchored at the head of the rapids. No showers or flush toilets which is how I like it. Lake Umagog is a short hop away," notes camper Gre C.
Wildlife viewing: Search for moose along Route 16 near Errol, particularly at dawn or dusk. "Rte 16, along where Mollidgewock is located, is one of the most prominent places for spotting moose in NH. As long as you keep your distance, it's amazing to see these breathtaking animals," shares Rachel P.
Kayaking: Many waterways throughout the region support paddling for various skill levels. Cupsuptic Lake Park & Campground offers boat rentals directly from their facilities. "We have also rented boats directly from the campground. The owners are wonderful people who are always helpful," says Mim J.
Winter recreation: Access extensive snowmobile trails when snow conditions permit. Coleman State Park Campground provides winter camping options. "ATV traffic can be a little annoying, but otherwise quiet. Not close to shopping," reports Josh F., highlighting the trade-offs of this remote location.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer well-spaced sites despite wilderness settings. "We stayed at site 17 which was nicely tucked into the trees. I was amazed to see the cabins that were in the woods behind us, they were very cute," mentions Miccal M. about Coleman State Park Campground.
Clean facilities: Despite remote locations, campgrounds maintain good standards. "Very clean facilities. Friendly staff. I only explored sites 1-21, but all of those sites without hook ups are pretty private. Sites with hook ups are more open," notes Jillian about Lake Francis State Park Campground.
Affordable pricing: State park campgrounds offer reasonable rates compared to private options. "It is a New Hampshire state campground so the prices are low and the place is very well-kept. They even have a sink with hot running water where you can wash your dishes at the main house," Lisa P. explains about Lake Francis.
Natural soundscapes: Loons and other wildlife create memorable auditory experiences. At Maidstone State Park, "The lake had to be the most pure and pristine lake in Vermont, the park, trails, lake and community all make this and rememberable trip that'll always have you wanting to come back for more!" says Kyle B.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds have minimal or no connectivity. At Maidstone State Park, "No cellular with either Verizon or AT&T but there is limited WiFi at check in building," reports Ted D.
Remote location requirements: Most campgrounds are far from supplies. "Make sure you are well provisioned before arriving, there are no supplies nearby," Kevin W. warns about Aziscoos Valley Camping Area.
Seasonal considerations: Northern New Hampshire experiences early frosts and late springs. "I was here in October and it was COLD, so be prepared for all kinds of weather," Jean C. mentions about Mollidgewock State Park Campground.
Yurt camping options: For those seeking alternative accommodations between tents and cabins, yurt camping near Clarksville, New Hampshire provides semi-permanent structures. Notch View Inn & Campground offers yurts among their accommodation types.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Many campgrounds feature kid-friendly swimming and boating options. "The river is clean with a solid though slightly rocky bottom and a moderate current that is suited for wading if that is your thing and excellent for tubing," explains ERNIE Y. about Aziscoos Valley Camping Area.
Educational programs: Some campgrounds offer nature activities. "My daughter had gotten more candy out of them then she know what to do with answering the daily trivia question right," shares Jessica C. about Lake Francis State Park Campground staff interactions.
Campground layouts: Consider site locations when traveling with children. At Moose Brook State Park Campground, "Perfect for family camping! Fishing, swimming, river walks, biking and movie nights!" notes J L.
Weather preparedness: Pack for variable conditions year-round. "Some sites have new shelters, which are nice when you camp and it's calling for rain," explains Jessica C. about Lake Francis State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site configurations: Many campgrounds have limited space for larger rigs. "The sites and facilities are well maintained and quite clean. The owners and staff are quite nice and really do a great job managing the campground. There are nice shaded sites along the river as well as a number of sites in a wide open field," Sarah C. describes at Aziscoos Valley Camping Area.
Hookup availability: Limited full-service sites exist in the region. "We booked a no-hookup site by the river for a week long stay with our travel trailer. The grounds were extremely well kept and the showers and main restrooms were the cleanest I have seen," reports ERNIE Y.
Alternative accommodations: When not RVing, consider specialized yurt camping in Clarksville, New Hampshire area for comfort in wilderness settings. Lakeside Camping offers options but cautions: "If you have a small camper great if you have anything over 30 feet find somewhere else," advises Ronald C.
Seasonal access: Many roads leading to campgrounds may be difficult for larger vehicles in shoulder seasons. "You need to check in at the cabins a little down the road but sites can be reserved online easily," notes Miccal M. about Coleman State Park Campground.
