Edward MacDowell Lake campsites sit within a forested region of southern New Hampshire where elevation ranges from 700-900 feet above sea level, creating cooler evening temperatures even in summer months. The camping season typically runs from May through October with most facilities closing before the first frost. Weekend occupancy rates often reach 90% during July and August, making advance reservations essential for prime locations.
What to do
Hiking beyond Monadnock: There are numerous trails accessible from camping areas that don't require tackling the famous mountain. At Greenfield State Park Campground, visitors can explore the frog pond area. "Frog pond is fun to explore," notes Ali B. The park also connects to other hiking opportunities, as Matt R. points out: "Close by to Miller state park (NHs oldest state park), Garwin falls (beautiful little water falls you can swim in)."
Kayaking and paddling: Several Edward MacDowell Lake campsites offer water access for non-motorized boats. At Oxbow Campground, "They have 3 separate ponds-one for fishing, one for boating & the larger one is for swimming," according to Sara D. Free paddle boats are also available at Oxbow. Near Spacious Skies Seven Maples, Richard W. notes: "We were right on the pond, so the kids could fish whenever. Lots of hiking trails (the dogs loved it). Can't wait to come back next year and explore the lake along the hike."
Biking and road trips: The region offers both on-site biking opportunities and access to scenic drives. The Ashuelot Rail Trail can be accessed directly from some campgrounds. Michael M. from Ashuelot River Campground describes: "Beautiful river to float down or paddle up. Saw a bald eagle this past weekend while paddling up past the campground." Local attractions are within short drives, as Alison S. mentions: "Highly suggest checking out Tenney Farm nearby for fresh produce and treats."
What campers like
Quiet atmosphere: Many campers highlight the peaceful environment at certain campgrounds. Jean C. describes Gilson Pond Area Campground — Monadnock State Park as "one of the quietest and most peaceful campgrounds I've ever stayed at." The wooded settings contribute to this tranquility, with sites often separated by natural barriers. At Lake Dennison, Rachael K. noted: "Sites 1 through 5 on the first loop are pretty quiet and peaceful. We stayed at site 4 and we think that it was one of the best sites in the campground."
Clean facilities: Campground cleanliness is frequently praised in reviews. At The Pine Campground, Ian H. reports: "Most of the daily/weekly sites back up to a stream, which is nice. You can hear the water running, especially at night." Oxbow Campground maintains "clean & up-to-date bathrooms with hot showers," according to Sara D. Jess G. notes that at Gilson Pond, "The bathrooms are immaculate. The showers take coins but the facilities are some of the best I've seen while camping on State Park grounds."
Waterfront sites: Many campgrounds offer sites adjacent to water features. At Lake Dennison Recreation Area Campground, Juliet P. comments: "It is so convenient to camp right on the lake. We can drop our paddle boards in any time and explore the lake." Gabe N. adds: "We camped on the north shore; sites were big and offered immediate access to and view of the lake." At Ashuelot River Campground, sites located along the river are particularly popular for direct water access.
What you should know
Cell service variability: Connectivity differs significantly between campgrounds and even between sites within the same facility. At Lake Dennison, Gabe N. reports: "Cell service was fine with AT&T." However, at Otter River State Forest, Jamal C. notes: "Verizon cell service was pretty good," suggesting carrier differences impact service. Plan accordingly if you require consistent connectivity.
Site privacy considerations: Site selection significantly impacts privacy levels. Rachael K. cautions about Lake Dennison: "The sites with higher numbers by the lake are all on top of each other with little to no trees or shrubs between sites, and you can't really decipher where one site ends and the next begins." At Greenfield State Park, Erin R. notes: "Very large campground with lots of woods to block you from other campers."
Weather impacts: The area experiences significant seasonal changes that affect camping conditions. At Greenfield State Park Campground, Hailey D. mentions: "When we went (July 2025) the water was closed due to Cyanobacteria Blooms, hence the 1 star deduction. We are grateful that they are honest about it, but it is disappointing to not be able to swim at the campers beach." Emma N. adds: "Just don't forget to bring some bug-spray for those New Hampshire mosquitos!"
Tips for camping with families
Pool facilities: Several campgrounds offer swimming pools that are particularly appealing for families with children. At Spacious Skies Seven Maples, Alison S. notes: "Our son liked the playground and it was unfortunately too cold for the pool but it looked fun! It has a big slide and what looks like a splash pad." The campground also features "a recreational hall with a pool table & video games," according to Sara D.
Playground access: Many campgrounds maintain dedicated play areas for children. Kate C. reports that Friendly Beaver Campground has "3 outdoor pools (sports, toddler, regular) plus an indoor pool for rainy or chilly days. They have a few animals the kids can feed. They also have crafts, hayrides and games, playground and other events." At Oxbow Campground, Kelly W. says: "The fishing pond was perfect. I will be returning soon. I highly recommend this place if you have a family."
Site selection for families: Choose sites strategically based on your family's needs. Joe D. from The Pine Campground explains: "Our site was across from the playground, and backed up to a stream. Playground was a bit older but it was maintained well, and the kids had fun." At Lake Dennison, Bonnie B. advises: "This is a gorgeous campground with clean facilities and responsive rangers. The sites on the North side are spacious & quiet. The other side of the campground (east) has a lot of noise pollution from the nearby road."
Tips from RVers
Site sizes and accessibility: RV site dimensions vary significantly between campgrounds. At Ashuelot River Campground, John O. reports: "The sites we good sized (had water and 30amp) and the campground was very clean and well kept." Wayne B. adds: "Huge sites and a very helpful owner." John L. notes that "Hook ups are in great condition for power, water, sewer."
Electrical capacity issues: Some campgrounds may have limitations with power delivery. Zachary W. reports from Seven Maples: "Had issues with 30 amp service at site was not providing enough power, could not run all my campers amenities While my 20 amp designated outlet at home runs my entire camper with no issue." Check with campground management about electrical capacity before arrival.
Navigation challenges: Some campgrounds have access limitations for larger rigs. At Ashuelot River Campground, John L. advises: "Follow the website directions to get here as there are covered bridges in the area with low Clearance and low weight limits." At Gilson Pond Campground, Jean C. cautions: "When choosing a site, note that the tent only sites often have small parking areas with 1-2 platforms and are not suitable for an RV/trailer. Only 7 sites are suitable for a trailer/RV, 4 of them with electric hookups."
