Cabin camping near Fitzwilliam, New Hampshire offers options within a 30-mile radius across southern New Hampshire, northern Massachusetts, and eastern Vermont. The region sits at approximately 1,000 feet elevation with terrain characterized by granite outcroppings, mixed hardwood forests, and numerous small lakes and ponds. Camping season typically runs from mid-April through mid-October, with fall foliage viewing peaking in early October when nighttime temperatures can drop below 40°F.
What to do
Water activities on the Ashuelot River: Visitors staying at Ashuelot River Campground can enjoy paddling experiences right from the campground. "Great riverfront location. Huge sites and a very helpful owner. What more could you want?" notes Wayne B. The river offers multiple recreation options as Michael M. explains: "Beautiful river to float down or paddle up. Saw a bald eagle this past weekend while paddling up past the campground."
Rail trail access: Several cabin locations connect to regional bike paths. "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," shares Carry M. about Ashuelot River Campground. The trail system extends through multiple towns with mostly flat terrain suitable for casual cyclists.
Swimming and beach access: Pearl Hill State Park Campground features pond swimming with designated beach areas. "There is a beach side of the pond with picnic tables and grills. And there's also a nice little area on the opposite side of the pond with a small entry area to the pond that we bring the dogs to," notes Ali B. The swimming areas typically open Memorial Day weekend and close after Labor Day.
What campers like
Site privacy levels: Otter River State Forest offers varying degrees of seclusion depending on site selection. Jamal C. reports, "The camp ground is clean nice with lots of trails for hiking and biking." For those seeking more separation, Jean C. advises: "The sites that are near the small pond are generally larger and have better space for pitching a tent."
Clean facilities: Many cabin locations maintain well-kept restrooms and shower areas. At Spacious Skies Minute Man, Mary F. found that "Womens bathroom is clean and large." Brittany V. adds that Spacious Skies Minute Man offers "Heated pool, laundry, Wi-Fi that works, cable, 50 amp FHU. Roads are a little interesting to navigate."
Field activities: Recreation areas beyond just hiking trails provide family entertainment. Ali B. notes that Pearl Hill has "a nice big open field too with a few lawn games set up." At Otter River State Forest, Matt R. simply states: "I loved this little campground, it was relaxing, beautiful, and had enough to keep us busy!"
What you should know
Site selection matters: At many locations, cabin and tent sites vary significantly in quality. At Otter River State Forest, Rachel P. advises: "Sites were a bit small. The hiking trails in and around the camp trail were nice, but not overly remarkable." Jean C. offers specific guidance: "I liked site 3 for a bit more privacy; it's also one of the 3 sites designated for an RV."
Wildlife encounters: Kampfires in Vermont has documented bear activity in the camping area. Ralph L. reports a surprising discovery: "Shortly after arrival, a pile of fresh bear scat was right there! They did say there was wildlife in the area!" Bears are most active during early morning and evening hours from May through October.
Seasonal variations: Most cabins in the region close by mid-October. Molly B. notes that at Spacious Skies Minute Man, "If you stay for 6 days, the 7th is free." Fall foliage viewers should book well in advance for September and October weekends when cabins fill quickly throughout the region.
Tips for camping with families
Pool options: Friendly Beaver Campground offers multiple swimming facilities for different weather conditions. Kate C. explains: "They have 3 outdoor pools (sports, toddler, regular) plus an indoor pool for rainy or chilly days. They have a few animals the kids can feed." The variety of pool options keeps children entertained regardless of weather.
Playground accessibility: Several campgrounds feature updated play equipment. Kate C. continues about Friendly Beaver: "They also have crafts, hayrides and games, playground and other events." Julia B. adds, "This campground was amazing. We went for a weekend and they let us stay later on Sunday since it rained all weekend."
Animal interactions: Small petting areas delight younger campers at multiple locations. Brandon C. notes about Friendly Beaver: "We enjoyed their small but nice petting zoo of a few goats and a horse." Most animal feeding activities occur during morning hours between 9-11am.
Tips from RVers
Road access challenges: Some cabin areas have limited access for larger vehicles. Camie S. warns about Ashuelot River Campground: "Don't come in off of rt 10, there's a low covered, one lane bridge that you can't tow thru. Some of the turns aren't so friendly either." Always follow campground-provided directions rather than GPS navigation.
Hook-up variations: Full-service sites offer different amenity levels between locations. John C. explains about Ashuelot River: "Sites in the woods have water and 50 amp service, no sewer. Most of the open sites have 30/50 amp service with full hook-ups." Reservations should specify exact hook-up requirements when booking.
Site leveling requirements: Jim C. found at Spacious Skies Minute Man: "Good level site water and electric (full hook ups also available) electric box a little far from parking site had to use an extension cord." Many RVers recommend bringing extension cords of at least 25 feet to ensure connections reach service points.
