Camping in the Epsom, New Hampshire area offers access to both the Merrimack River watershed and the foothills of the Belknap Mountain Range. The region sits at approximately 500 feet above sea level, creating a varied terrain of rolling hills, small lakes, and pine forests. Summer temperatures typically range from 55°F at night to 85°F during peak daytime hours, with campgrounds often nestled among tall pine stands that provide natural shade for tent campers.
What to do
Kayaking and canoeing on the Suncook River: At Lazy River Family Campground, the water access provides good options for paddling. "The river was rather shallow but there is a swimming area downstream that would be deep enough for a swim," notes camper Quinn G., who stayed at the riverside sites.
Mountain biking on established trails: Bear Brook State Park Campground offers extensive trail networks suitable for biking. A camper named Eammon C. confirms: "We camped here to check out the mountain bike trails in the park and we're not disappointed on either count. The biking trails were a blast."
Archery practice for all skill levels: Bear Brook State Park features two dedicated archery ranges open to campers. As Jean C. mentions, "There are two archery ranges and wheelchair accessible docks for fishing," making it accessible for various skill levels.
Explore local hiking trails and fire towers: The region offers many day hikes, including some with observation points. Lyssa M. observed: "Epsom is great spot to do some hiking - and this was a nice place to spend the night. There is a good quick fire tower route nearby if you want to get up high."
What campers like
Privacy of wooded sites: Epsom Valley Campground offers secluded camping options. Molly G. especially appreciated "what was called the 'wilderness area'. AMAZING little tent sites! They were secluded but still had full hookups."
Clean, well-maintained facilities: Many campers comment on the upkeep of bathrooms and shower facilities. At Epsom Valley, Becky noted: "The site was perfect and it was right next to the bathrooms which were SO clean!"
River and water features: The Suncook River running alongside multiple campgrounds provides recreation opportunities. Kurt W., who stayed at Epsom Valley, appreciated that "Slow river runs by the property, big pine trees throughout," creating a peaceful camping atmosphere.
Family-friendly atmospheres: Gunstock Campground receives high marks for its amenities. Sara D. observed, "Beautiful area, not a bad size campground, quiet nights... free hot showers that are not dirty, lots of trails on edge of the grounds, lots and lots of tent sites, platform on campsite, pool and playground available."
What you should know
Campground capacity and peak season bookings: The most desirable sites fill quickly, especially waterfront options. As one visitor to Pawtuckaway State Park Campground advised, "The sites on the water book up quickly but they're perfect for fishing and boating."
Seasonal closures impact services: Many campgrounds reduce services during shoulder seasons. Randy R. noted at Bear Brook: "A few modifications. The bathrooms are family style. One family at a time. Check in is at the beginning of the 3-mile road to the campground and the camp store is a walk-up window only."
Noise considerations between sites: Proximity to roads or other campers can affect the experience. Ashley I. observed at Circle 9 Ranch Campground: "Very tight sites, hardly any tree cover (at least in the RV area). Lots of permanent campers, seemed to get quite loud in the afternoons (music blaring)."
Terrain variations between sites: Some campgrounds feature uneven ground. Sara D. mentioned about Sun River Campground: "The site we were on had plenty of elbow room and was spacious enough for our 12 person tent & bean bag toss game set up (site ground was a little uneven with minimal roots here & there)."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access near campsites: When camping with children, consider proximity to play areas. At Calef Lake Camping Area, Alyse-Beast F. found that "The playground is absolutely perfect for kids and adults alike. This is a yearly spot I take my family, and we're never disappointed!"
Water activities for different ages: Many campgrounds offer swimming areas designed for families. At Granite State Campground, Andrew P. reports that his "Boys rode around on bikes, facilities were clean, the owners have been working hard to improve this camp."
Pet-friendly trails and swimming areas: For families with dogs, availability of pet recreation matters. Bear Brook State Park is noted for being "very dog friendly for camping as well as hiking. The trails were very well marked and really conveniently close by to the campsites," according to Gabby M.
Weekend activities and events: Some campgrounds offer organized activities. At Lazy River, Kimberly B. shares that "I bring my kids here every year the first camping trip kids always ask can we go to Lazy River Campground!!"
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability varies significantly: Epsom Valley Campground stands out for its full-service sites. Kurt W. noted the campground has "electric and water at all the sites we saw plus for those that want it, sewer hookups."
Access roads can be challenging: Pay attention to campground entrance details. According to Jean C. who stayed at Bear Brook, "I noticed 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."
Site size considerations: For larger RVs, not all sites accommodate comfortably. At Gunstock Campground, Ryan F. reported it's "Very well kept and quiet grounds. The lot I was in was not wooded but still quiet."
Seasonal versus transient sites: Many campgrounds balance seasonal and short-term campers. Andrew P. observed at Granite State Campground: "The camp has some seasonal full timers and many transient sites," which affects availability and atmosphere for visitors.