Camping sites near Epsom, New Hampshire range from state parks with lakefront views to family-oriented resorts with multiple swimming areas. Located in Merrimack County at an elevation of 462 feet, this region experiences warm summers with average temperatures of 80°F and cool, crisp fall nights. Winter camping options are limited, with few year-round facilities maintaining operations during the snowy season when temperatures regularly drop below freezing.
What to do
Kayaking on Pawtuckaway Lake: Visitors to Pawtuckaway State Park Campground can enjoy paddling on the lake with rentals available. "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.
Hiking trail network: Bear Brook State Park offers extensive hiking opportunities with well-marked paths. "The trails were very well marked and really conveniently close by to the campsites," says Gabby M. about Bear Brook State Park Campground. The park encompasses over 10,000 acres of forest preserve with multiple interconnected trails.
Swimming in multiple pools: For those seeking water activities beyond natural lakes, some campgrounds offer swimming facilities. "There are numerous pools and hot tubs, activities and the people that work there are just the nicest!" reports Sheila C. about Cold Springs Camp Resort, which features seven different pools including dedicated children's areas.
What campers like
Private waterfront sites: Many campers prioritize locations with direct water access. "The sites on the water book up quickly but they're perfect for fishing and boating. Also, the view!" explains J L. about Pawtuckaway State Park. Waterfront sites typically require reservations 2-3 months in advance during summer months.
Clean facilities: Campground bathroom cleanliness rates highly in reviews. "The bathhouses are probably the best maintained of any campground I've stayed at. They're cleaned multiple time a day," mentions Daniel J. about Autumn Hills Campground. Several campgrounds offer coin-operated showers and some include laundry facilities.
Family activities: Organized events enhance the glamping experience close to Epsom, New Hampshire. "The campground is family friendly and has a lot to offer. Our camping group consisted of children from the ages of 8-17 yrs old. No one was bored," shares J B. about Salmon Falls / Lebanon KOA, which offers scheduled activities throughout the season.
What you should know
Site sizes vary dramatically: Some campgrounds have tight spacing between sites. "Sites are very small, and extremely close together. My 28 foot travel trailer barely fit into the site, and our friends in the tent sites were basically on top of each other," warns Taylor H. about Autumn Hills Campground.
Reservation timing matters: Peak season requires advance planning. "We stayed here twice, once in September 2013 and then again in September 2018 and it is one of my favorites," shares Ellen C. about Pawtuckaway State Park, noting that off-season visits offer more availability and privacy.
Pet policies differ: Not all campgrounds welcome dogs during all seasons. "Tried to plan ahead this year and get a prime site to learn they don't allow dogs anywhere in the campground during summer months. I would of hoped for one loop but NH state parks are anti-dog I guess," notes Erin W. about seasonal restrictions at some parks.
Tips for camping with families
Consider upscale glamping options: For families new to outdoor experiences, Great Meadow Campground offers comfortable accommodations. "They have bathhouses with toilets, showers and laundry facilities. An in-ground pool with a great shallow area for the littles," reports Kiarra M., highlighting family-friendly amenities.
Check playground locations: Some campgrounds position playgrounds near specific sites. "It's across the street from the playground. Site 93 is near the entrance, but large and set back from the camp road, so it offers some extra seclusion," Jean C. notes about Bear Brook State Park, providing useful information for families with young children.
Book beach-adjacent sites: Water access improves the experience for many families. "The small store is well stocked. You can rent kayaks here. Lots of small people powered boats on the lake," mentions Susan B. about Pawtuckaway State Park, where the beach area provides supervised swimming.
Tips from RVers
Access considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging roads or entrances. "I found that the little loop to my campsite was tight to exit (I was towing a 14' teardrop, not a big trailer) and I had to be careful to swing wide at the corner," cautions Jean C. about navigating Bear Brook State Park.
Hookup availability: Most campgrounds offer electric and water, but services vary. "Electric (30 and 50amp), water, satellite and cable hookups as well as tank dump hookups at each site," explains Kiarra M. about the amenities at Great Meadow Campground, which remains open year-round with winter rates of $400/month plus electricity.
Site selection for large rigs: Research specific site numbers before booking. "Small but well organized campground. TT members will find all the comforts of home. Mostly a 5th wheelers park but you can see a 34 foot class A here and there so don't fret, there is room," advises Robert M. about Sandy Beach Campground.
