Cabins near Exeter, New Hampshire offer a mix of rustic and modern accommodations throughout the Merrimack River Valley region. Located approximately 14 miles inland from the Atlantic Ocean at an elevation of 125 feet, Exeter experiences typical New England seasonal weather patterns with warm summers and cold winters. The transitional spring and fall seasons provide optimal cabin camping conditions with daytime temperatures averaging 55-75°F during the May-October camping season.
What to do
Waterfront activities: Sites at Pawtuckaway State Park Campground include direct lake access for fishing and small watercraft. "The sites on the water book up quickly but they're perfect for fishing and boating. Also, the view!" notes one visitor. Multiple campgrounds maintain rental options for canoes and kayaks.
Mountain biking trails: Bear Brook State Park Campground maintains an extensive network of trails ideal for mountain biking. "We camped here to check out the mountain bike trails in the park and we're not disappointed on either count. The campground is nice and spacious, well kept and the staff is friendly. The biking trails were a blast," shares one visitor who utilized the direct trail access from the campground.
Local day trips: Most cabin accommodations near Exeter provide convenient access to coastal destinations. "The location is great being 10 minutes or so from Hampton beach. Lots of little farms in the area too," explains a visitor who stayed at one of the cabin options at Wakeda Campground.
What campers like
Private waterfront sites: Many visitors prefer lakefront cabins for their views and recreational access. "If you plan ahead and get a water front site it's amazing... but all the sites are roomy and lovely to camp at! Kayaking, swimming area and hiking were all 5 stars!" reports one camper at Pawtuckaway State Park.
Family-friendly pools: Wakeda Campground receives positive feedback for its amenities beyond cabin accommodations. "We had such a fun time and our dog loves it! The only bad part is we were very far from the bathrooms and tons of mosquitoes. We definitely will be coming back in the near future!" mentions a weekend visitor to the campground.
Forested settings: Several cabin properties maintain natural forest surroundings. "We were overwhelmed by the beautiful massive forest. The campground was splendid with old tall, pine trees everywhere," describes a visitor to Wakeda. The combination of forest settings with water access creates diverse recreational opportunities at most cabin properties.
What you should know
Site selection factors: Cabin and tent sites vary significantly in size, privacy and features. "Definitely do your research on the different site numbers because some sites are much more private and scenic than others," advises a visitor to Pawtuckaway. For cabin rentals specifically, location relative to amenities matters significantly.
Seasonal availability limitations: Old Stage Campground and most cabin facilities operate on a limited seasonal schedule. "May 7 - Opening day. Great time," notes one early-season visitor. Most cabin operations close by early October, with peak season running June through August.
Shower facilities vary: Bathroom and shower access differs between locations. "The bathhouses offer coin-operated showers; I noticed a price difference between the two of them, so went with the less expensive option!" shares a Bear Brook camper. Some cabin properties include private bathrooms while others utilize shared facilities.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Tuxbury Pond RV Campground maintains recreational swimming options. "Beautiful campground, clean facilities, decently priced. The pool, playground, bathrooms, and basketball court were all open and well maintained. We really enjoyed our stay!" reports a family with children who visited the campground.
Playground facilities: Multiple locations maintain playgrounds for younger visitors. "We had a great time here camping with our kids and grandkids. River is not much to look at but the pool was great and there were great events like foam parties, DJ at the pool, pancake breakfast and live music to name a few," shares a grandparent who visited Winding River Campground.
Family programming: Many locations run scheduled activities for children. "Adult bingo every Friday, DJ for kids every Saturday," notes a visitor to Exeter Elms Campground regarding their regular weekend programming schedule. Scheduling cabin stays around these planned events can enhance family experiences.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: RV sites near cabins sometimes present leveling challenges. "Sites weren't bad, clean campground, pool & canoe rentals, family activities offered, short drive to the beaches. Primitive camping, waterfront sites & cabins available," reports a visitor to Exeter Elms who noted the site conditions.
Check-in timing: Arrive during office hours to ensure smooth cabin check-in. "Late check-in (7:45 p.m.) was a bit tricky — an envelope with a key card and map were placed in a mailbox for us due to store/office closing @ 6 but no mention of this in the confirmation email," cautions a Tuxbury Pond visitor. Most locations close offices by early evening.
Power reliability: Cabin campers with electronic needs should verify electrical service. "Great employees, clean reliable power. No issues great spread out sites," notes a visitor to Wakeda Campground who appreciated the consistent electrical service during their stay.
