Tent camping around Edward MacDowell Lake offers numerous options within a 25-mile radius of Peterborough, New Hampshire. The region features predominantly mixed hardwood forests with elevations ranging from 700 to 1,000 feet, creating cool summer nights even when daytime temperatures reach the 80s. Most campgrounds in this area don't permit swimming directly in Edward MacDowell Lake, but nearby water bodies provide alternatives for cooling off during summer camping trips.
What to do
Paddle the waterways: At Tully Lake Recreation Area, campers can rent canoes, kayaks and paddleboards to explore the lake's islands. "We take our canoe and spend the whole day at the lake. You can find lots of private areas to swim, pick blueberries and relax," notes Ben P.
Explore hiking trails: The 4-mile loop around Tully Lake offers moderate terrain suitable for most hikers. "From the main entrance, collect a cart, load your gear, and following the appropriate divergent path from the parking lot or bath house (they are color coded)," advises Jean C. about accessing both campsites and trails.
Disc golf near the dam: For those seeking recreational activities beyond water sports, the disc golf course near Tully Dam provides an alternative outdoor activity. Multiple reviewers note the course sees regular use throughout summer months with minimal waiting times.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Lost Boys Hideout in New Hampshire, the camping setup emphasizes seclusion. "Nice new tents provided at Sleepy Hollow site. Improvements to the firepit, area all mulched, even some games and water are provided!" shares Steve K.
No vehicle traffic: Many campers appreciate the car-free camping environment. At Barton Cove Campground, "You check in at the office, grab a key to unlock the gate, drive to the campground, unlock gate, drive through gate, lock gate, unload your stuff, drive to gate, unlock gate, drive through gate, lock gate, return key, drive back to campground, walk to your site," explains Brie B.
Waterfront options: Several campgrounds offer sites with water views or direct water access. "We stayed at site 1, which was HUGE and extremely private. Sites closer to the water that we saw were less private, but still very peaceful and spread out," reports a camper about their experience.
What you should know
Site selection matters: At Federated Womens Club State Forest, "Some of the sites are definitely walk-in, with a narrow trail leading from the road. It's possible to park at other sites; I'm guessing the gate at the beginning of the road toward the campground is open when the campground is open," explains Jean C.
Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds in the region have minimal to no cellular coverage. "Cell phone coverage is faint to nonexistent on Verizon. You may want to download offline maps before you head out here," advises a reviewer about camping near the Quabbin Reservoir area.
Reservation timing: Popular sites book quickly, especially for summer weekends. "The sites fill up weeks out (and can completely fill the day registration opens, which is date-dependent each year...Booking for Memorial Day meant I booked in April), so you have to be on your game," warns one experienced camper.
Tips for camping with families
Distance to facilities: When tent camping with children at Maple Ridge Farm, consider site location relative to bathrooms. "Toilet and shower were very clean. Very lush campground, plenty of space and privacy between sites. They'll drive you in an ATV up to some of the sites that are further away from the parking lot," reports Les R.
Busy holiday weekends: School vacation periods bring more crowds and noise. "We went memorial day weekend few years ago, busy holiday of young teens partying. Park staff tried their best, but other campers definitely took away from our stay," notes Lauren A. about her experience during a holiday weekend.
Pack light for walk-in sites: "The sites here are great, if you aren't bringing too much with you (or are staying long enough you don't mind the multiple treks to and from the car for various stretches)," advises a reviewer about managing gear with children at walk-in tent sites.
Tips from RVers
Tent-focused campgrounds: Most camping options near Edward MacDowell Lake cater specifically to tent campers with limited RV accommodations. "This is a 'Carry In' campground. You park at the entrance, register with Ranger. Large wooden wheelbarrows are provided to bring your gear to your camp site," explains Nancy R. about Tully Lake Campground.
Limited hookup availability: RV campers seeking water and electric connections will find few options within 15 miles of Edward MacDowell Lake. Those requiring hookups typically need to travel to campgrounds further from the lake, closer to Route 101 or Interstate 91.
Site accessibility: Many access roads to tent campgrounds in this region aren't suitable for large vehicles. "If so, high clearance vehicle is definitely preferred," notes a camper about one of the forest access roads, indicating the challenges for larger RVs trying to navigate the smaller camping areas.
