Tent campsites near Contoocook, New Hampshire sit within the Merrimack River watershed at elevations ranging from 400 to 900 feet. The region's mixed hardwood forests provide moderate shade for camping areas, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 50°F at night to 80°F during day. Most campgrounds in the area experience seasonal mosquito activity from May through September, requiring appropriate repellents.
What to do
Paddle the waterways: Tully Lake Recreation Area offers boat rentals for exploring its numerous islands. "We take our canoe and spend the whole day at the lake. You can find lots of private areas to swim, pick blueberries and relax," notes reviewer Ben P. of Tully Lake Recreation Area.
Hike the local trails: Several campgrounds connect to established trail networks. "The area offers water sports of all kinds, amazing views, spectacular hiking and backpacking in the White Mountains and some cute little villages along the local highways," writes Shari G. about Squam Lakes Association camping areas.
Climb Mount Cardigan: This moderate summit hike offers substantial rewards. "Great spot to spend the night before a climb of Mt. Cardigan! The climb is challenging but shouldn't take too long. Great fire tower views at the top too!" according to Madison G. who camped at Cardigan Campsites.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many tent campsites provide substantial separation. "We stayed at site 1, which was HUGE and extremely private. Sites closer to the water that we saw were less private, but still very peaceful and spread out," says Megan G. about Tully Lake Recreation Area.
Simple, rustic settings: The more primitive options appeal to those seeking minimal development. "Simplicity at its best," notes Steve K. about Lost Boys Hideout, highlighting the straightforward camping experience many seek in this region.
No vehicle traffic at campsites: Walk-in sites create a different camping environment. "No cars at all at the campsites, which was great for peace of mind as our toddler roamed around. It also made for a super quiet stay," reports a Tully Lake camper.
What you should know
Gear transport considerations: Walk-in sites require planning for equipment movement. "The campsites are spacious and though there is not a bad site, some are better suited for certain purposes like group camping... Keeping gear to a minimum is a good idea," advises Miguel B. about tent camping at Tully Lake.
Reservation timing: Popular sites fill extremely quickly. "The sites fill up weeks out (and can completely fill the day registration opens, which is date-dependent each year...Booking for Memorial Day meant I booked in April), so you have to be on your game," warns Kris M. from Tully Lake.
Limited cell service: Most primitive camping areas have minimal connectivity. "Cell coverage is pretty close to absent or poor in most of the area, so download any maps you might want (driving, trail, geocaching) before you arrive," recommends Jean C. from their Tully Lake experience.
Tips for camping with families
Consider site distance from facilities: For camping with small children, bathroom proximity matters. "Our site was fairly far from services, long run with small kids in the middle of the night," shares Lauren A. about her Tully Lake stay.
Look for family-oriented activities: Some campgrounds offer structured programs. "Baker Rocks had a host of different camping options onsite including tent platforms, yurts, and cabins... Along another bend of the river were two chairs for taking in the scenery," notes Justin P. about their experience at Baker Rocks.
Bring wildlife identification guides: The region offers substantial nature observation opportunities. "Wildlife viewing opportunities are common throughout the region, though seasonal insects, particularly mosquitoes during summer months, require preparation with appropriate repellents."
Tips for RVers
Limited RV options near Contoocook: Most primitive tent campgrounds don't accommodate RVs. "If you have young kids this place is so fun! Multiple pools, a water slide, high ropes, a jump pad, mini golf and more!!!" says Samantha N. about Salmon Falls River RV Resort, one of the few RV-friendly options within driving distance.
Consider seasonal camper communities: Some campgrounds cater more to long-term stays than weekend visitors. "We passed many campers that had been on this property permanently, several of which had porches attached or additional rooms built on the side," observed Kirsten J. when visiting Viewland Campground.
Research road access limitations: Not all campgrounds have suitable access for larger rigs. "The road to get to Viewland Campground is very steep. The campground loop is a one-way loop that is not easily marked. The road was very narrow and we were very close to some RVs," explains one reviewer about challenges navigating larger vehicles.
