Camping near Exeter, New Hampshire provides access to diverse landscapes spanning coastal regions to inland forests. The area experiences warm summers with average temperatures reaching 80°F from June through August, while spring and fall bring milder conditions with cooler nights. Campsites in this region typically range from waterfront locations to wooded settings with varied terrain and modest elevation changes.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: Bear Brook State Park offers extensive trail networks for cyclists of all skill levels. "Camped here two nights in 2015 en route to Maine. Located in a 10000 acre forest preserve, the campground is heavily forested and very secluded from civilization," shares Ellen C. from Bear Brook State Park Campground.
Kayaking and canoeing: Pawtuckaway State Park provides water recreation opportunities on its scenic lake. "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. from Pawtuckaway State Park Campground.
Fishing: Several local campgrounds offer fishing access in ponds and small lakes. "Small campground but we had fun here. Small lake to swim in and a small playground. They had a beach dance which was really fun," explains Rhonda B. about Calef Lake Camping Area.
What campers like
Forest surroundings: The tall pine trees provide natural shade and privacy at many campsites. "We were overwhelmed by the beautiful massive forest. The campground was splendid with old tall, pine trees everywhere," explains Pawsfuradventure T. from Wakeda Campground.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the Exeter area maintain well-kept bathroom facilities. "This is one of the cleanest, most meticulously maintained campground we have been to. So quiet and peaceful as well. Wifi service was excellent," shares Rebecca S. about Sea Coast Camping.
Proximity to beaches: The location allows for easy day trips to coastal areas. "The location is great being 10 minutes or so from Hampton beach. Lots of little farms in the area too," notes Zachary W. from Wakeda Campground.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Peak season (June-August) requires advance booking, particularly for waterfront sites. "The sites on the water book up quickly but they're perfect for fishing and boating. Also, the view!" advises J L. from Pawtuckaway State Park.
Pet restrictions: Some state parks have seasonal limitations on pets. "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," warns Erin W. about Pawtuckaway State Park Campground.
Glamping options: Luxury camping accommodations in Exeter, New Hampshire provide alternatives to traditional tenting. "Employees are very welcoming and the place is clean. Quite big but secluded spots at the same time. Nice and clean toilets and showers," explains Martin S. about Sea Coast Camping and RV Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Select campsites near recreational areas for easier supervision. "There are two playgrounds, both were nice. Water slide was fun," notes Cassie G. from Winding River Campground.
Swimming options: Multiple campgrounds offer swimming areas suitable for children. "The swimming area at the pond looked very inviting for summer time campers," mentions Ellen C. about Bear Brook State Park.
Activity planning: Weekend organized events provide entertainment for kids. "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," shares Lisa H. from Winding River Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Reserve larger sites when traveling with bigger rigs. "We stayed here for a week, our site was large with full hookups and the area was very clean, some sites in other sections are closer together," advises Betty H. about Tuxbury Pond RV Resort.
Utility considerations: Check hookup locations when selecting sites. "The water and electric were between our site and the next on one side and sewer between our site and the one on the other side. This made it difficult to place our trailer on the slanted site and reach all services," warns Carry M. about Hidden Valley RV and Golf Park.
Seasonal stays: Many campgrounds accommodate longer-term visitors. "Beautiful campground with great staff. Late back atmosphere, so easy to relax here," shares Kelly F. about Wakeda Campground, noting they "have been camping here for many years."
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