Camping near Danbury, New Hampshire offers diverse options along the Baker River watershed where elevations range from 800 to 1,200 feet. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping months. Most campgrounds operate seasonally from May through mid-October with limited winter accessibility.
What to do
River recreation: Navigate the Baker River with equipment often available at Baker River Campground. The river provides excellent opportunities for fishing, swimming and tubing. "The site we had was an open grassy area though we tucked the tent off to the side. On the other side of the roped banking was a beautiful view of the river... There is also a beach with great fishing," notes one camper.
Climbing access: Stay near Rumney Rocks climbing area which features over 800 established sport routes on schist cliffs. "Nice private campground. Bathrooms were clean and recently remodeled. Host is extremely nice and welcoming. We have stayed here on multiple occasions when in the Rumney area for climbing and biking," reports a regular climber who visits the area.
Local exploration: Visit nearby covered bridges within a 20-minute drive from most camping areas. "It's in a great location being near the main roads but far enough away that it seems remote," mentions a visitor at Plymouth Sands Camping Area. The campground is situated along a sandy section of the Baker River with volleyball nets and beach access points.
What campers like
Private beach access: Direct river frontage at several campgrounds provides guests with swimming opportunities. "Me and my family stayed right on the river, site 10. It was very shaded, clean, private walkway to the river... We ended tubing down the river one day," reports a visitor.
Spacious sites: Larger-than-average campsites provide privacy between groups. "The sites are decently spacious and have various configurations for utilities. There is a nice beach on the river with a rope swing and ability to swim," notes a visitor at Loon Lake Campground & Function Hall.
Family activities: Organized events and games available at select locations. "Between the beach, the mini golf, playground, and an entire shed of recreation items available to use this place is amazing! Activities are scheduled throughout the season," shares an enthusiastic camper.
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds close by mid-October. The camping season typically runs from Memorial Day weekend through Columbus Day, with limited shoulder season availability depending on weather conditions.
Road noise: Some riverside sites experience traffic sounds from nearby routes. "There was a bit of road noise overnight," mentions a tent camper at Baker Rocks. However, the same reviewer noted that "The tent sites are within the wooded area around the property and felt very secluded."
Bathroom facilities vary widely: Some locations feature modern facilities while others offer more rustic options. "Bathrooms are clean. Hosts sponsor activities that are fun for all, like a balloon launch, cook outs, etc," shares a visitor at Quechee State Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Select sites with play areas for children to enjoy during downtime. "They have a playground area for kids, horseshoe area and a net for volleyball next to the bathroom/showers," explains a family camper at Baker River Campground.
Animal encounters: Some properties feature small farms with domesticated animals. A visitor at Crows Nest reports, "Clean and fun campground," making it suitable for families looking for activities beyond typical outdoor recreation.
Swimming safety: Check water depths before allowing children in rivers. "We were there while the water was fairly low, so it was great for kids," notes a family camper describing the conditions at Plymouth Sands. River levels can change throughout the season based on rainfall and dam releases.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookups: Many glamping options near Danbury, New Hampshire offer partial services only. "Site Location: Conveniently near the road going out and to the beach. Amenities: Electrical and water hookup, a well-placed fire pit, and a bathroom/shower house right across from my site," describes an RVer at Baker River Campground.
Hilly terrain challenges: Some campgrounds require careful navigation with larger vehicles. A visitor at Moose Hillock Camping Resort advises, "If you have never been before, book a sight as close as possible to the pool and office, because the further you get, the higher the altitude. We chose bottom of the hill sites so we lucked out."
Site reservations: Book well in advance for holiday weekends. "We stayed for one night and got a river spot last minute on a holiday weekend," shares a camper, though this experience is unusual during peak season when most riverfront sites are reserved months ahead.
