Recreational vehicle camping around Edward MacDowell Lake provides access to New Hampshire's southwestern woodlands at elevations between 800-1000 feet. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer highs averaging 80°F and winter lows often below freezing. Cell service across the region varies significantly with stronger signals typically available in campgrounds closer to Route 202 corridor rather than more remote locations.
What to do
Hiking trails: Jamaica State Park Campground offers multiple paths including a trail to Hamilton Falls. "We hiked the west river trail (which leads right out of the campground) to Hamilton falls which is a gravel closed road that follows the west river upstream 2 miles to Hamilton falls trail which then leads up hill for another mile to the falls," explains one camper.
Fishing opportunities: Seven Maples Campground provides a dedicated fishing pond on-site. "Great family oriented campground with fishing pond and great fishing spots nearby," notes a visitor. Field and Stream RV Park offers sites "right next to the water" making it convenient for anglers.
Water activities: Woodmore Family Campground and RV Park features lake access with kayak rentals. "It's clean they offer a lot of stuff to do right on a lake in the bottom of the beautiful mountain in New Hampshire," explains a camper. Some campgrounds offer dedicated swimming areas with varying facilities.
Mini golf and sports: Seven Maples Campground has basketball courts and large play fields. "We loved being next to the large field and basketball court where we watched the kids play without having to worry where they disappeared to," mentions one family. Hidden Valley RV Park includes a 9-hole golf course on the property.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Woodmore Family Campground maintains clean amenities. "Everything was clean, staff was friendly and attentive. Pool was clean, they have a great wiffleball park," shares a visitor. Bathroom cleanliness consistently appears in positive reviews across multiple campgrounds.
Seasonal activities: Jamaica State Park Campground offers unique spring experiences. "In the Spring the water is released behind Ball Dam, creating a white water adventure," notes one reviewer. Fall foliage viewing becomes a primary attraction in October when camping demand increases.
Playground facilities: Multiple campgrounds feature dedicated play areas for children. "The playground is really big with plenty to do. There's also a fishing pond and short hiking/biking trails," explains a family who stayed at Seven Maples. Campgrounds with water features often integrate splash pads or small slides.
Weekend gatherings: Campgrounds accommodate both quiet weekday stays and busier weekend environments. "Very quiet during the week, weekend is Party Time when the gang pulls in on Friday Night," reports a visitor at Woodmore Family Campground, highlighting the different camping experiences available throughout the week.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Advance bookings become essential during peak seasons, especially for prime waterfront sites. "We managed to get a prime leanto site right on the river. We were only there for an overnight but we will be back," shares a Jamaica State Park visitor.
Electrical concerns: Camp Coldbrook Golf & RV Resorts has reported electrical system issues. "The electrical system has claimed countless rv components and 2 total losses. Instead of fixing it, they simply run generators for years," warns one camper. Always use surge protectors when connecting to campground power.
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds in the region operate between May and October. Silver Lakes Park Campground runs "mid May to Columbus Day" while Field and Stream operates "year round; higher rates Oct 15-May 1" for winter camping enthusiasts.
Site spacing: Woodmore Family Campground offers varied site arrangements. "Sites are a little closer than I usually find. Neighbors are very considerate on site privacy," notes a camper. Request corner or end sites for more space when available.
Tips for camping with families
Water features: Silver Lakes Park Campground provides easy access to swimming areas. "This is a very clean, quiet, gated campground, with easy beach access for the kids (and launching space for pontoon or bass boats)," reports a visitor. Campgrounds with gradual water entry points work best for families with small children.
Activity options: Seven Maples offers numerous recreational facilities. "The pool is amazing for kids of all ages with water slides and a splash area. There's no life guard or staff monitoring the pool area so it did get a little too crazy at times for my little ones," cautions a parent, suggesting morning swims for younger children.
Safety considerations: Jamaica State Park requires caution around water features. "People have lost their lives at these falls so be extra cautious with children around the falls," warns a visitor about Hamilton Falls. Always verify supervision requirements at water features before planning activities.
Weekend crowds: Family-friendly campgrounds see significant population increases Friday through Sunday. A Woodmore Family camper notes: "Stayed for over a week off season, mid September. Very quiet during the week, weekend is Party Time when the gang pulls in on Friday Night. Very loud until after 10:00 on Friday/Saturday."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Sandy Beach Campground offers various RV site options. "Small but well organized campground. TT members will find all the comforts of home. Staff is pleasant and helpful," reports an RV camper. Corner sites generally provide more space and privacy.
Power requirements: Many campgrounds offer varied electrical connections. "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," notes a Seven Maples visitor, suggesting bringing power adapters.
Seasonal camper ratio: Some properties maintain a high percentage of permanent seasonal campers. "50 percent or more is seasonal camp sites," explains a Woodmore Family camper, which can affect availability for travelers seeking short-term stays.
Dump station access: Field and Stream RV Park provides sanitary dump stations but lacks shower facilities. "No tenting" mentions one reviewer, indicating this location caters specifically to self-contained RVs rather than tent campers seeking shared amenities.
