Franklin, New Hampshire RV parks and campgrounds operate seasonally, typically from May through October, with most closing before the first significant snowfall. Located in Merrimack County with an elevation of 350-400 feet above sea level, the region experiences cool summer nights averaging 55°F and moderate daytime temperatures around 80°F in peak season. Weather conditions change rapidly in this area, requiring campers to pack layers regardless of season.
What to do
Lake activities at Sandy Beach Campground: The campground includes a sandy beach on the water with space for sunbathing and multiple boat launch areas. "Small but well organized campground. TT members will find all th e comforts of home. Staff is pleasant and helpful... 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. in his Sandy Beach Campground review.
Golf at Hidden Valley RV Park: This 1300-acre property features a 9 or 18-hole golf course with cart rentals and a pro shop. "The main attraction of this campground is the golf course of 9 or 18 holes. There is a pro shop, golf cart rentals, etc. There are 300 camping sites with full hookups," shares Christy C. in her review of Hidden Valley RV and Golf Park.
Nature trails at Newfound RV Park: The campground features walking paths alongside a stream for peaceful nature walks. "A fun plus to the campground was the nature walk and stream on the property. This was a great place to take our dog for a quick walk. There's even a little 'wishing' bridge that crosses the stream," notes Luis F. in his fall visit to the park.
What campers like
Clean facilities at Woodmore Family Campground: Consistent maintenance across restrooms, showers and common areas enhances the camping experience. "Everything was clean, staff was friendly and attentive. Pool was clean, they have a great wiffleball park," says Salvatore P. in his review of Woodmore Family Campground and RV Park.
Proximity to lakes region attractions: Campgrounds serve as convenient base camps for exploring New Hampshire's lakes. "The campground was a great base location for the local attractions and sights," writes Luis F. about Newfound RV Park. "We enjoyed our stay at Newfound RV Park thanks to their laundry facilities, rec room, and quirky owner. It was a great place to explore Newfound lake from, as well as the Mill Fudge Factory."
Friendly staff and seasonal community: Many parks build a sense of community among campers. "The campground is very friendly... a lot of seasonal folks. We had a nice corner site which fit our 34' rig just fine," says Tammy in her review of Sandy Beach Campground. Another camper notes, "Quiet during the weekdays, picks up over weekends but not to overbearing."
What you should know
Variable site conditions: Site quality and levelness vary considerably between campgrounds and within the same park. "Our site was full hookup and a pull through site. We used a Passport America discount here," notes Laura L. about Newfound RV Park. At Hidden Valley, Carry M. found different challenges: "The water and electric were between our site and the next on one side and sewer between our site and the one on the other side. This made it difficult to place our trailer on the slanted site and reach all services."
Seasonal operations affect availability: Most RV parks around Franklin close for winter. "50 percent or more is seasonal camp sites," reports John L. about Woodmore Family Campground. At Riverbrook RV & Camping Resort, one reviewer spent "the month of July at Riverbrook" indicating longer-term stay options during peak season.
Weekend vs. weekday experience: The atmosphere changes significantly between weekdays and weekends. "Very quiet during the week, weekend is Party Time when the gang pulls in on Friday Night. Very loud until after 10:00 on Friday/Saturday," notes John L. about weekend crowds at Woodmore Family Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Various parks offer different play areas for children. At Silver Lakes Park Campground, "This is a very clean, quiet, gated campground, with easy beach access for the kids (and launching space for pontoon or bass boats). There is a playground, rentable kayaks and canoes, a basketball goal, frisbee golf, corn hole, horseshoes, yard darts etc."
Seasonal activities for children: Many campgrounds organize special events for younger guests. "We enjoyed our stay. The first site we got was way too small for our tent and they accommodated us and gave us a choice of two others to pick from. A lot of seasonal people but friendly. Playground is on the beach," shares Nicole about Sandy Beach Campground.
Wi-Fi access for teens: Internet connectivity varies between parks. At Hidden Valley, "The kids were given a lot of grace and hung out in the grill/game room area for hours on end to use the wi-fi." Luis F. notes about Newfound RV Park: "I work remotely, so having internet access is mandatory, we were able to use our AT&T hotspot with decent service. That worked well enough for my needs, so I didn't test the onsite WiFi."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for large rigs: RV parks differ in their ability to accommodate larger vehicles. "Mostly a 5th wheelers park but you can see a 34 foot class A here and there so don't fret, there is room," advises Robert M. about Sandy Beach Campground. Newfound RV Park specifically offers "spacious pull-through sites" according to reviewers.
Local provisions and necessities: Know where to find supplies near your campground. "For quick provisions there is a gas station/country store just up the road. They have a decent selection of groceries, a deli counter, and a few quick-serve items," notes Luis F. about options near Newfound RV Park.
Utility connections and dump stations: Check hook-up configurations before arrival. "Laundry is $1.50 for a wash and $1.50 for an hour dry cycle," notes Luis F. about Newfound RV Park. John L. mentions Woodmore's facilities include "coin operated showers with hot water, mostly nice and clean except after a crowd gets packed and checks out Sunday AM."
