Campsites near Fitzwilliam, New Hampshire offer access to the Monadnock region's diverse terrain at elevations ranging from 600 to 1000 feet. Positioned at the southwestern corner of New Hampshire, the area experiences cooler nights even in summer months, with temperature drops of 10-15 degrees after sunset. The region contains a mix of state park campgrounds and private facilities, many operating seasonally from May through October.
What to do
Kayaking and canoeing on Ashuelot River: At Ashuelot River Campground, visitors can paddle directly from the campground. "Great riverfront location. Huge sites and a very helpful owner. What more could you want?" notes Wayne B. The river provides options for both paddling upstream or floating downstream, with wildlife viewing opportunities. "Saw a bald eagle this past weekend while paddling up past the campground," reports Michael M.
Swimming at multiple locations: Many campgrounds in the region feature swimming areas, with varying facilities. Tully Lake Recreation Area offers natural swimming from campsites. As Evey M. explains: "The lake is wide and looks great for floating when the weather is warmer. We didn't catch any fish but there's always next time."
Hiking rail trails: Several campgrounds connect to converted rail trails for hiking and biking. "You can pick up the Ashuelot Rail Trail at the campground. They have canoes and kayaks on site, plus a shuttle service for water sports or biking," mentions Carry M. about Ashuelot River Campground.
Exploring waterfalls: The region contains several waterfall areas accessible from campgrounds. At Tully Lake Recreation Area, Doane's Falls is a short walk from the campsites. "If you'd like to hike with children, there is an easy hike close to the entrance, along Doane's Falls, a series of 5 waterfalls along an ascending path through a wooded area," writes Nancy R.
What campers like
Private sites with natural separation: Lake Dennison Recreation Area offers spacious campsites with good separation. "The sites on the North side are spacious & quiet. The other side of the campground (east) has a lot of noise pollution from the nearby road which is used by logging trucks," advises Bonnie B. Site selection makes a significant difference in the camping experience.
Clean facilities: Many campers comment positively on bathroom and shower facilities in the region. "The bathrooms were clean but if I remember correctly you had to pay for showers?" notes Alex S. about Monadnock State Park. Cleanliness standards vary by location, with some state parks receiving particular praise.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple lakes and ponds in the area provide fishing options. At Swanzey Lake Camping Area, the lake is accessible for fishing though requires crossing a public road. "Nice beach, but need to cross public road to get there - short walk. Relaxing evenings along side fire pit," explains Mike B.
Lake and river activities: Water access ranks high among camper preferences. "We thoroughly enjoyed our time again and will definitely be back," shared Rae-Ann W. about tubing at Ashuelot River Campground. "Having good weather, we took a lazy tube ride from one side of the campground to the other."
What you should know
Seasonal water conditions: Droughts can affect water levels and quality at campgrounds. "It has been quite dry in the area, so they are experiencing a drought. However, a little rain in the week got the river moving a bit," notes Rae-Ann W. about Ashuelot River Campground. Some lakes may experience cyanobacteria blooms in summer months.
Varied campsite privacy levels: Site selection significantly impacts privacy. At Otter River State Forest, "With the exception of a handful of the sites at this campground (mainly, the ones on the pond that go exceptionally quickly), the sites are too small, too close together," reports Kris M. Research individual sites before booking.
Limited office hours: Some campgrounds operate with restricted office hours, particularly in shoulder seasons. "The office (which is only open until 5 PM????? Whaaaat????) is across the street from where all the campsites are located," notes Sarah B. about Swanzey Lake Camping Area.
Carry-in camping at some locations: Several campgrounds require equipment to be carried in rather than driven to sites. At Tully Lake Recreation Area, "You park at the entrance, register with Ranger. Large wooden wheelbarrows are provided to bring your gear to your camp site. (This means no noise or disturbances from cars entering your camp sites)," explains Nancy R.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and kid-friendly activities: Spacious Skies Seven Maples offers extensive children's facilities. "The pool is amazing for kids of all ages with water slides and a splash area. There's no life guard or staff monitoring the pool area so it did get a little too crazy at times for my little ones. The playground is really big with plenty to do," shares Erin M.
Basketball and field games: Several campgrounds feature sports facilities. "We loved being next to the large field and basketball court where we watched the kids play without having to worry where they disappeared to," notes Erin M. about Seven Maples Campground.
Camp store conveniences: Many facilities have on-site stores for supplies. At Lake Dennison, "Small store at office which was open every day. Game room with wi fi. Pool, playground, volleyball area," mentions John L. These amenities help when supplies run out.
Cabin options for easier family stays: For families wanting to avoid tent setup, cabin rentals provide a convenient alternative. "We stayed in the cabin with a kitchenette and bathroom. The shower worked well and it was nice not to have to walk to the restrooms, though they were close by," notes Alison S. about Seven Maples.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: Many campgrounds in the Monadnock region have uneven terrain. At Gilson Pond Area Campground, "I had a standard site (A13) with ample space for my teardrop camper and a 12x12 canopy; I could easily have pitched a large tent as well," shares Jean C. Many sites require leveling blocks.
Covered bridge restrictions: Some access roads have covered bridges with height and weight limitations. "Highly suggest reading the directions on the campgrounds website about the covered bridge you're not allowed to cross - we discovered this the hard way," warns Mallory P. about Ashuelot River Campground.
Limited large rig access: Most campgrounds in the region aren't designed for large RVs. "A few words of caution - don't bring a large RV - the sites are not meant for big rigs," advises Nancy R. about Tully Lake Recreation Area. Research maximum lengths before booking.
Power limitations: Some campgrounds have restrictions on electrical service. "Had issues with 30 amp service at site was not providing enough power, could not run all my campers amenities," notes Zachary W. about Seven Maples Campground. Check electricity specifications when booking.
