Tent campsites near Farmington, New Hampshire range from established walk-in sites to remote pond-side platforms accessible only by hiking trails. The region sits at elevations between 500-1,500 feet with spring temperatures averaging 45-65°F and summer temperatures typically reaching 75-85°F. Fall camping brings temperatures ranging from 35-65°F with increased chance of precipitation, making weather-appropriate gear essential for backcountry camping experiences.
What to do
Hiking to remote ponds: Sawyer Pond offers a beginner-friendly 1.5-mile trail from the trailhead off NH Highway 302. "The hike from the parking lot to the campsite was 1.5 miles and pretty easy. It is mostly flat with a few minor hills (I saw children and elderly folks easily using this trail)," notes Hunter P. about Sawyer Pond.
Ice fishing in winter: The White Mountain region offers winter camping options for cold-weather adventurers. Jean C. mentions about Sawyer Pond: "This is open year round and each season offers something different. It's a nice snowshoe hike in winter. I've ice-fished on the pond."
Paddling exploration: Several campsites offer water access for kayaking and canoeing. At Squam Lakes Association, maintained campsites include boat-in options that provide unique perspectives of the surrounding landscape. Jen S. notes: "We really enjoyed our stay here... Beautiful trails, excellent kayaking, quiet and serene."
Visit Old Orchard Beach: Campsites near the Maine border provide beach access opportunities. A reviewer at Sun Outdoors Saco Old Orchard Beach mentions: "This campground is four miles from Old Orchard Beach which is a trip. It is a throw-back from your childhood when carnival rides and funnel cakes made you so happy."
What campers like
Secluded platform sites: Tent campers appreciate the platform setups at several backcountry locations. At Sawyer Pond, Hunter notes: "The camping area had 6 sites, 2 toilets, and 1 lean-to. There is a platform to pitch a tent (or 2) on and a fire pit with a grill attachment at each campsite."
Night sky viewing: Remote camping areas offer exceptional stargazing opportunities away from light pollution. Erin H. at Sawyer Pond shares: "The pond is gorgeous and the stars were AMAZING. You do have to forage for firewood, which can be rough, but there's a fire pit right in front of the lean to. I've never seen stars like I did here, all around the pond."
Convenient base camps: Many tent sites near Farmington serve as excellent launch points for regional exploration. Justin P. says about Paugus Brook Farm: "The location is a great place to either explore the immediate area (Mount Chocorua and Chocorua Lake) or head further north to Conway and North Conway)."
Level field camping: Some camping areas offer spacious open field sites. Justin P. about Paugus Brook Farm notes: "The camping area is a field in the back with fairly level ground and lots of space, and is a very short walk from the designated parking area."
What you should know
Campground popularity: Popular tent sites fill quickly, especially on weekends. At Sawyer Pond, Sarah C. advises: "Due to the site's popularity, plan accordingly. Have a back-up plan for an alternate camping location. We witnessed several parties, many with young children, arriving late to find that all the sites were occupied."
Fire regulations: Fire policies vary significantly between campgrounds. At Paugus Brook Farm, a reviewer notes that "fires aren't permitted due to area fire restrictions," while at Sun Outdoors Saco Old Orchard Beach, Nancy W. mentions that "sites have picnic tables and fire pits."
Limited firewood: Even at sites permitting fires, gathering sufficient wood can be challenging. Hunter P. notes about Sawyer Pond: "One thing to note: there was very little available firewood near the campsites."
Toilet facilities: Composting toilets are common at more remote sites. Shari G. mentions that at Squam Lakes Association there is "a composting toilet in each camping area, but no picnic table or drinking water. Come prepared with your own water...or a filter."
Tips for camping with families
Choose short hiking options: For families with younger children, select sites with minimal approach distances. Sarah C. recommends Sawyer Pond: "This is a great beginner backpacking trip, great even for kids! The site has one shelter and 6 campsites available on the bank of Sawyer Pond."
Consider campgrounds with activities: Some established campgrounds offer structured recreation options. Samantha N. from Salmon Falls River RV Resort shares: "If you have young kids this place is so fun! Multiple pools, a water slide, high ropes, a jump pad, mini golf and more!!! My niece had so much fun!"
Look for clean facilities: When camping with children, bathroom cleanliness becomes especially important. Erin M. notes about Sun Outdoors Saco Old Orchard Beach: "We really enjoyed our stay here. The staff was friendly, the bathrooms and grounds were very clean, activities were fun, the playground/pool was nice."
Arrive early for prime sites: With limited spots at popular tent sites near Farmington, timing matters for family camping. Sarah C. recommends: "Do yourself a favor and arrive early!" when visiting backcountry campgrounds like Sawyer Pond.
Tips from RVers
Consider cabin options: When tent camping isn't ideal, several campgrounds offer cabin alternatives. Rachel P. shares about her experience at Huttopia Southern Maine: "My sister and I arrived late Friday evening and were promptly greeted by a bubbly employee who happily lead us to our 'kabin.' K16 was a single room cabin that could comfortably sleep 4, furnished with a full-sized bed and a bunk bed."
Know your electrical needs: Different campgrounds offer varying levels of hookups and power options. Aaron G. notes about Salmon Falls River RV Resort: "Campsites are level and site is fairly easy to maneuver with bigger rigs."
Check location convenience: When selecting a base camp near Farmington, consider proximity to attractions. Ben P. recommends: "This KOA is close to Old Orchard Beach, the city of Portland, and towns of Kennebunkport, Ogunquit, Wells and Kittery Outlets."
