Campers exploring Etna, New Hampshire can experience diverse outdoor experiences within a 25-mile radius. This region sits at the intersection of Vermont's Green Mountains and New Hampshire's White Mountains, creating varied terrain ranging from 600 to 2,500 feet in elevation. Area campgrounds typically maintain operating seasons from mid-May through mid-October, with nighttime temperatures dropping to the 40s even during summer months.
What to do
River access activities: At Plymouth Sands Camping Area, visitors can enjoy water recreation along the Baker River. "The river is very clean and a nice spot to hang out in the sun and splash around (not very deep most of the year)," notes Tyler A. Many campers appreciate the swimming and tubing opportunities, particularly during summer months.
Hiking trail options: Trails ranging from beginner to advanced difficulty levels surround camping areas throughout the region. "We stayed at site 15 in the lower campground for a few nights and it was level and spacious but pretty close to neighbors compared to other sites. Then we moved to lean to ELM in the upper campground and it was a nice private site," explains Katy Z. from Gifford Woods State Park Campground. The park offers direct access to multiple hiking routes.
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds provide direct water access for anglers. "The site had a large tent platform they could fit multiple tents, a brand new picnic table, a fire ring (with a free bundle of firewood), two chairs by the fire ring, and even a few strings of solar lights around the camp area," reports Justin P. about his fishing trip staying at Baker Rocks. Though he "only caught a few minnows when fishing," the area offers multiple water access points.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: The campgrounds near Etna offer varying degrees of privacy and natural separation. "The sites are large, private, and wooded, and there are clean restrooms with hot showers. The highlight is the hiking, both in the park and just outside of it," explains Tara S. about Gifford Woods State Park Campground. Wooded buffers and thoughtful site placement enhance the camping experience.
Clean facilities: Bathroom and shower facilities rank high in camper priorities. "The bathrooms are immaculate with coin (quarters)operated showers. There are plenty of fresh water spigots and a spacious dump site if needed," notes Chris A. when reviewing his stay at Quechee State Park Campground. Well-maintained restrooms consistently appear in positive reviews.
Direct river access: Properties situated along waterways provide sought-after recreational options. "The campsites are private and spacious, the property is large and beautiful, close to the river. The owners are so kind and accommodating," writes April W. about Baker Rocks. Water access for swimming, fishing, or simply relaxing ranks high in camper preferences.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds in the region have minimal connectivity. "We didn't have much cell service at the campground, which didn't bother us," reports Shiloh about Pine Haven. Campers should download maps and information in advance if relying on mobile devices.
Road noise considerations: Some campgrounds sit close to roadways, creating ambient traffic noise. "Road noise isn't super loud, but it's constant," mentions a reviewer identified as B about Quechee State Park. Sites further from main roads typically offer quieter conditions.
Seasonal variations: Weather fluctuates significantly in this region. "We hit this campground for one over night as we past through. Good spot with easy access to the Gorge. Bathroom were clean and the grounds were quite at night," explains Douglas L. about his fall visit to Quechee State Park Campground. Spring visits often encounter mud, while fall brings cooler temperatures.
Tips for camping with families
Pool amenities: For families seeking water recreation beyond natural bodies, Moose Hillock Camping Resort offers exceptional options. "The pool really is as awesome as it looks. The playground is amazing," notes Jessica W. The pool with slides provides entertainment regardless of natural water conditions.
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds maintain dedicated children's play areas. "There are sites for campers, tents, and a handful of lean tos. It's a short hike down to Quechee Gorge, where you can cool off in the shallow water. Rangers also run fun programs for children- my children churned butter and made popcorn over the campfire one night," shares Jen B. about Quechee State Park.
Scheduled activities: Campground-organized events provide family entertainment. "There is a nice field for kids to play in, and clean washrooms. The campsites are all wooded. Some are private, while others are a little crowded together. The park is dog-friendly, which we always appreciate," writes Tara S. about her experience at Quechee State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: Terrain throughout the region tends toward uneven ground. "If you stay in the back it's quieter. The bathroom is very clean. They offer showers that cost you a few quarters. There are no hookups but they do have a dump station if you are in a RV," advises Jan B. about Quechee-Pine Valley KOA.
Hookup availability: Services vary significantly between properties. "The park is a large park that is terraced since it is in a pretty hilly area. There is the range of sites from pull-thrus, pull-ins and back-in sites and can accommodate RVs of any size. Some sites are full hookup while others are not and that is reflected in the cost," explains Nancy W. regarding Quechee-Pine Valley KOA.
Yurt camping options: For RVers seeking alternative accommodations or friends without rigs, yurt camping near Etna, New Hampshire provides solid options. "Our family of 4 visited Baker Rocks during a very rainy week and still had an amazing time. We stayed 2 nights in the double bell tent with two clean full size beds and a 3rd night in the yurt both were spacious and wonderful, among tall trees and pines," shares April W. Yurts offer a comfortable middle ground between tent camping and cabin rentals.
