Tent camping near Dover, New Hampshire ranges from rustic woodland sites to facilities with modern amenities within an hour's drive. The region experiences average summer temperatures of 70-85°F during peak camping season from May through September, with spring and fall temperatures often dipping into the 40s at night. Winter camping options are limited, with only a few year-round facilities operating in the area.
What to do
Kayaking at Squam Lake: Visitors can explore multiple waterways within 45 minutes of Dover. At Squam Lakes Association, campers have access to "excellent kayaking, quiet and serene" environments perfect for paddling adventures.
Beach swimming access: Many campgrounds offer swimming opportunities within short distances. The beach near Cape Ann Camp Site is "big, beautiful and low tide was unexpected as you could walk for ever," making it ideal for families wanting water activities.
Local hiking trails: Trails range from beginner-friendly to moderately challenging across multiple camping areas. At Camp Nihan Education Center, campers appreciate that "the camp is also adjacent to Breakheart Reservation, which had a great shallow pond with life guard on duty as well as bike trails and a range of different hikes."
Wildlife observation: Several campgrounds feature natural habitats where wildlife sightings are common. One camper at Cape Ann Camp Site noted "spectacular views and wild turkeys, deer, etc." during their stay.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Many tent campers prefer the secluded areas available at certain campgrounds. At Lost Boys Hideout, campers appreciate the "simplicity at its best" approach with improvements including "nice new tents provided at Sleepy Hollow site... the firepit, area all mulched, even some games and water are provided!"
Convenient bathhouse locations: The placement of facilities matters to many campers. One reviewer noted that at Military Park New Boston Air Force Station, the campground offers a "great outdoor place" with "nice scenery with fresh air."
Family-friendly activities: Multiple campgrounds offer structured recreation for children. At Salmon Falls River RV Resort, one camper shared they have "2 pools 2 hot tubes, a giant water slide that is even fun for the adults!!! Campsites are level and site is fairly easy to maneuver with bigger rigs. Have great activities daily for the kids."
Shuttle service to beaches: Some campgrounds provide transportation to nearby beaches, eliminating parking concerns. A camper at Sun Outdoors Saco Old Orchard Beach mentioned "In the summer there is a shuttle that takes you to the beach which is convenient."
What you should know
Site selection varies seasonally: Weekday camping typically offers more privacy than weekends, especially during summer months. At Cape Ann Camp Site, one visitor advised the campground is "clean but very rustic. Facilities are on the old side. Great beach access and friendly staff."
Shower facilities differ widely: Some campgrounds charge for shower use while others include it. A camper at Sun Outdoors Saco mentioned "The bathrooms were the cleanest I've seen camping" while another noted at Cape Ann that "showers require payment with quarters."
Reservation timing matters: Popular sites fill quickly, especially for summer weekends. At Squam Lakes Association, campers note that "the sites are pricey and fill up quickly when reservations open for the year on Feb 15."
Road conditions vary: Some campgrounds have challenging access roads. One camper warned about Viewland Campground: "The road to get to Viewland Campground is very steep. The campground loop is a one-way loop that is not easily marked."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly recreation: Choose campgrounds with dedicated children's activities. At Huttopia Southern Maine, the "grounds are manicured and aimed to be family friendly" according to a recent visitor.
Proximity to attractions: Select sites near multiple family destinations. Camp Nihan Education Center offers "the perfect blend of rugged and convenient for small kid camping" with "a recently renovated bathroom and shower facility makes clean ups easy."
Safety considerations: Look for campgrounds with well-marked boundaries and supervision areas. One family noted that Military Park New Boston Air Force Station provides "great outdoor place with fresh air and freedom sunshine!"
Heat management options: Summer camping can get warm, so water access matters. At Salmon Falls River, families appreciate that there's "a giant water slide that is even fun for the adults" and "multiple pools" to keep cool during hot days.
Tips from RVers
Site levelness: Many RV campers prioritize level sites to avoid setup issues. At Salmon Falls River RV Resort, campers note "campsites are level and site is fairly easy to maneuver with bigger rigs."
Hookup availability: Water, electric and sewer connections vary significantly between campgrounds. Cape Ann Camp Site has "water, sewer, and electric hookups" but "no wifi" according to a reviewer.
Size restrictions: Some campgrounds can't accommodate larger RVs due to road conditions or site limitations. One camper at Sun Outdoors Saco explained that while the campground "sits among tall pine trees which offer nice shade" it also "accommodates the largest of RV's."
Seasonal operation dates: Most campgrounds near Dover operate from May through mid-October. Cape Ann Camp Site's season runs "May 15 - Oct 15" while Sun Outdoors Saco operates "May 1 to October 15."
