Farmington, New Hampshire camping options extend beyond the immediate town boundaries, with campgrounds spread across southern New Hampshire and into neighboring Maine. The region sits at approximately 500 feet above sea level with a seasonal climate that brings humid summers averaging 80°F and cool fall nights dropping to 40°F. Most campgrounds close by mid-October as winter approaches, though late-season camping offers exceptional foliage viewing opportunities.
What to do
Pond activities at Sandy Beach: At Sandy Beach Campground, water recreation forms the centerpiece of camping experiences. "Sandy beach by the water has plenty of room to relax out in the sun as well as launch areas to set out in a paddle boat, canoe or row boat, all available on site," notes Robert M. Boat rentals are available directly from the campground for day use.
Beach excursions from campgrounds: Shuttle services run from several campgrounds to coastal beaches during summer months. "There is a shuttle that takes you to the beach which is convenient. During the shoulder season dogs are allowed on the beach but not the summer," explains Nancy W. when describing transportation options. Beach access trolleys typically run hourly between 9am-5pm during peak season.
Mining-themed water recreation: Cole's Mine RV Resort features an elaborate mining theme throughout its facilities. "This place is well payed out and very well taken care of. The pool is heated and has an amazing water slide and themed," notes Andrew G. The mining theme extends to the playground areas where children can pan for treasures during scheduled activities.
What campers like
Clean facilities and amenities: Campers consistently mention facility cleanliness as a key factor in their satisfaction. "The bathhouse and pool were both very clean, and for as many RV's that were there - that was amazing!" writes Kirsten J. about Turtle Kraal RV Park. Most campgrounds feature daily bathroom cleaning schedules, with showers typically available between 7am-10pm.
Family-friendly atmospheres: Campsites in the region cater specifically to families with children. "Super fun pool and a small campground so not many people crowding the pool. Many nice fishing spots and lots of play areas and outdoor recreation," reports Samantha N. about her experience at Cole's Mine RV Resort and Campground. Organized activities commonly include outdoor movies, crafts, and seasonal events.
Wooded sites with fall foliage: The region offers spectacular fall colors, making autumn a popular camping season. "We came in in October, the foliage is beautiful on the 'wooded' sites. There are new sites with gravel and no trees as well, we had our choice," shares Kasey M. from her stay at Thousand Trails Moody Beach. Fall camping requires advance reservations, particularly for weekends in late September through mid-October.
What you should know
Seasonal closures affect availability: Most campgrounds near Farmington operate from May through mid-October. "Silver Lake Park Campground and Cabins was an incredibly well maintained campground off Jamestown Road in Belmont NH. Brent and Dee Phillips have owned this campground for 3 seasons - and their love for this place shows!" notes Kirsten J. about Silver Lakes Park Campground, which operates from mid-May through Columbus Day.
Weekend noise levels vary significantly: Many campgrounds have different atmospheres between weekdays and weekends. "We took our first trip in our RV to Moody Beach to see how the Leprechaun handled and setup. We had a wonderful time and great experience with our first trip with our dogs. It was only the second open weekend and a few things were still being setup," shares Deborah about her early-season experience at Thousand Trails Moody Beach.
Pet policies differ between properties: While most campgrounds welcome pets, restrictions apply at certain properties. "This is a very clean, quiet, gated campground, with easy beach access for the kids. Pets are asked to stay home," notes a reviewer about Silver Lakes Park Campground's no-pets policy. Other campgrounds typically require leashes no longer than 6 feet and prohibit pets at pool areas or playgrounds.
Tips for camping with families
Rentable water equipment for kids: Multiple campgrounds offer kayak and canoe rentals for family water activities. "There is a playground, rentable kayaks and canoes, a basketball goal, frisbee golf, corn hole, horseshoes, yard darts etc.," mentions a reviewer about amenities at Silver Lakes Park Campground. Rentals typically run $10-25 per hour depending on equipment type.
Playgrounds and recreation areas: Family-focused amenities are standard at most campgrounds in the region. "Worth every penny. We have stayed a weekend and visited family during their stay. This place is perfect for small families or parents of younger kids. 2 amazing playgrounds, clean facilities and one amazing pool," writes Laura C. about her experience at Cole's Mine RV Resort and Campground.
Entertainment schedules: Scheduled activities enhance family camping experiences, particularly on weekends. "Outdoor movies were fun," notes Jill P. about her stay at Wild Acres Sun RV Resort. Most campgrounds post weekly activity schedules at registration offices or on campground maps provided at check-in.
Tips from RVers
Site layout considerations: RV sites at some campgrounds feature unconventional orientations that affect privacy and usability. "We don't like the campsites being sideways or parallel to the road, it feels strange," notes one camper about Thousand Trails Moody Beach. Many campgrounds offer both back-in and pull-through sites, with premium locations typically costing $5-15 more per night.
Arrival timing awareness: Check-in procedures vary between campgrounds, with some having limited office hours. "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," reports Sara D. about her experience at Tuxbury Pond RV Campground. Most campgrounds require arrival before 8pm unless special arrangements are made.
GPS navigation issues: Standard GPS directions sometimes lead to incorrect campground entrances. "A little tip about GPS: if you're using Apple Maps, it will likely take you to a turn that is not the campground entrance, there's even a hand-written sign on someone's lawn that has directions to the entrance," warns Sara D. about navigation challenges when RV camping near Farmington, New Hampshire.
