Tent camping near Fitzwilliam, New Hampshire offers rustic experiences in the Monadnock region at elevations between 800-1,100 feet. The area experiences distinct seasonal changes with warm summer days often dropping to cool nights, requiring campers to pack additional layers even in July and August. Winter camping options are limited, with most sites closing after October.
What to do
Paddling opportunities: At Tully Lake Recreation Area in Royalston, MA, campers can explore the lake's islands and coves. "We take our canoe and spend the whole day at the lake. You can find lots of private areas to swim, pick blueberries and relax," notes Ben P.
Waterfall hiking: Located within a 15-20 minute drive from most Fitzwilliam camping areas, Doane's Falls offers multiple cascades accessible via short trails. "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," explains Nancy R.
Quabbin Reservoir views: The hiking trails near Federated Womens Club State Forest provide lookouts over the reservoir. "If you continue past site 15, you'll head through Gate 36 out toward Soapstone Hill which offers a great view of Quabbin Reservoir and sunsets," reports Jean C.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers value the secluded nature of tent sites. "We stayed at site 1, which was HUGE and extremely private. Sites closer to the water that we saw were less private, but still very peaceful and spread out," writes Megan G. about her stay at Tully Lake.
Absence of vehicles: The walk-in nature of campgrounds near Fitzwilliam creates a quieter environment. "No cars at all at the campsites, which was great for peace of mind as our toddler roamed around. It also made for a super quiet stay," notes another Tully Lake camper.
Natural swimming spots: Without designated swimming beaches, campers at Barton Cove Campground find their own water access. "You can't swim (unless you rent a canoe/kayak and swim while you're out on the water) and sites are fenced in due to how steep it is to the water which was a downside but views between the trees are nice," explains Brie B.
What you should know
Hauling gear considerations: Many tent sites require transporting equipment from parking areas. "The sites near the water or on bluffs are further away, and though they provide carts the trails can make hauling them tough. Keeping gear to a minimum is a good idea," advises a Tully Lake visitor.
Campground reservation timing: Popular sites fill quickly during peak season. "The sites fill up weeks out (and can completely fill the day registration opens, which is date-dependent each year...Booking for Memorial Day meant I booked in April), so you have to be on your game," explains Kris M.
Limited services: Some campgrounds have minimal facilities. At Federated Womens Club State Forest, "Bring your own water. There is a composting toilet located near the group site in the field," notes Jean C., who also mentions "Cell phone coverage is faint to nonexistent on Verizon. You may want to download offline maps before you head out here."
Tips for camping with families
Distance to bathrooms: Consider site location in relation to facilities. At Zoar Outdoor, families appreciate the maintained amenities, but as Dominick V. notes, "Amenities are well maintained. Could use a refresh but overall great experience." Some campers at other sites reported, "Our site was fairly far from services, long run with small kids in the middle of the night."
Activity-centered camping: Choose campgrounds with built-in entertainment options. "The campground is connected to an adventure/outing company that provides white water rafting, tubing and other water activities on a nearby river," explains Seth K. about Zoar Outdoor.
Proximity to supplies: Most campgrounds near Fitzwilliam have limited or no on-site stores. "If you've forgotten any gear or need groceries, there's a Walmart just a 15 minute drive away, open until 12 midnight," mentions a camper at Tully Lake.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most campgrounds in the Fitzwilliam area primarily accommodate tent camping with few dedicated RV sites. At Maple Ridge Farm, "They have a common room that has games and eggs for sale. Toilet and shower were very clean. Very lush campground, plenty of space and privacy between sites," notes Les R., though accessibility for larger vehicles is limited.
Advance planning required: RV campers should call ahead to confirm space availability and access restrictions. Many roads to tent camping areas near Fitzwilliam have gates, low clearance points, or narrow passages that limit larger vehicle access.
Hookup availability: Most tent-focused campgrounds in the region offer no hookups. When available, they're typically centrally located rather than at individual sites, requiring RVers to plan accordingly for water and power needs.
