Cabin rental options near Durham, New Hampshire range from rustic to modern accommodations at state parks and private campgrounds. Most cabins in the area are available from May through October, though some properties offer year-round options. Sites tend to book quickly, especially waterfront locations and those with enhanced amenities.
What to do
Water activities at Pawtuckaway State Park: Visitors can rent canoes and kayaks to explore the lake at Pawtuckaway State Park Campground, located 30 minutes from Durham. "This a a fantastic little camp for if you want to go canoeing or kayaking or boating of any kind! It's set up of three islands and a large majority of the campsites are right on the water," notes Matt R.
Beach access at local lakes: Cabin stays often include swimming areas with sandy beaches. "The beach was clean. The small store is well stocked. You can rent kayaks here. Lots of small people powered boats on the lake," explains Susan B. about Pawtuckaway State Park.
Mountain biking at Bear Brook: Located 40 minutes from Durham, Bear Brook State Park Campground offers extensive trail systems. "We camped here to check out the mountain bike trails in the park and we're not disappointed on either count. The campground is nice and spacious, well kept and the staff is friendly. The biking trails were a blast," shares Eammon C.
Hiking options with varied terrain: Many cabins provide direct trail access. "Excellent hiking, beach, wildlife-filled wetlands, girding, geology, forests, and water to enjoy. Pretty serious trail up and around some mountains, to a fire tower, ponds," writes Harry H. about the trails at Pawtuckaway.
What campers like
Waterfront cabins for fishing access: At Barrington Shores Campground, cabins near the water are popular with anglers. "Few transient sites but beautiful spots.119 on water by the beach and fishing spot. Would definitely come back," mentions Eric H.
Clean facilities and grounds: Campers consistently note the well-maintained bathrooms and showers at cabins near Durham. "The bathrooms were clean. The walk to the beach was along a public parking lot. The beach was clean. The small store is well stocked," shares a reviewer at Pawtuckaway State Park.
Natural surroundings with wildlife viewing: Cabins often provide opportunities to observe local wildlife. "I forgot the daily visits from the ducks, like clockwork morning and dusk a family of ducks visited looking for grub," writes Ellen C. about her cabin stay at Pawtuckaway State Park.
Family-oriented activities: Wakeda Campground offers organized events for families staying in cabins. "Late back atmosphere, so easy to relax here," notes Kelly F., while another camper mentions the family-friendly environment.
What you should know
Seasonal availability and weather considerations: Most cabin rentals operate from May through October, with limited off-season options. "We went in early May, when it was still a bit cold at night (in the low 40s) and not many people were around," explains Kris M. about Pawtuckaway State Park.
Bathroom and shower access: Some cabins include private facilities while others require using communal bathhouses. "Bath/shower was well kept, with four bathroom stalls and the one huge shower, I imagine that the wait times in the summer months might be a hassle but in the off season it was hardly used," notes Ellen C.
Booking requirements and peak times: Old Stage Campground in Dover fills quickly during summer. "Stayed on our 1st trip in Aliner. Went back 2 more times," mentions Bobcat B., indicating the popularity of returning to favorite cabin sites.
Bug considerations: Wooded cabin areas can have significant insect activity. "Very buggy, but it's outside, what do you expect?" notes one camper at Salmon Falls campground, which offers cabin rentals about 20 minutes from Durham.
Tips for camping with families
Book cabins with proximity to activities: Choose sites near playgrounds or beaches for convenience with children. "What a beautiful location! If you plan ahead and get a water front site it's amazing... but all the sites are roomy and lovely to camp at!" advises Erin W. about Pawtuckaway State Park.
Check for family events and programming: Beaver Dam Campground in nearby Berwick, Maine offers organized activities. "Beautiful and very well maintained. The staff is awesome. There are SO many amazing activities for the whole family. Would absolutely recommend!" shares Joseph I.
Consider noise levels when selecting cabin location: Some areas are quieter than others. "This campground is beautiful and in a nice location in the state park but is really crowded in the summer months with large groups of loud children," warns Madison G. about certain sections of Pawtuckaway.
Pack supplies based on cabin amenities: Inventory what's provided before arrival. "The campsite behind ours got totally flooded and the peoples stuff was soaked!" warns one camper, highlighting the importance of weather preparation even with cabin accommodations.
Tips from RVers
Accessibility to cabin sites: Ayers Lake Farm Campground and Cottages offers cabin options with varying accessibility. "Ayers lake campground in New Hampshire is a well kept secret. Small and family owned and operated, this campground offers some of the greatest vistas of a small New Hampshire pond we have seen," shares Bob H.
Parking considerations: Many cabin sites have limited parking space. "The sites were a little close and difficult to set up with more than one tent in our specific campsite," notes a camper about Bear Brook, which also applies to parking at cabin sites.
Power and utility access: Check if cabins include electrical outlets or if you need to bring portable options. "Sites are level and roomy. The bathroom was clean," mentions Susan B., highlighting the importance of site layout even when staying in cabins.
