Glamping close to Gilsum, New Hampshire offers a combination of wooded seclusion and water recreation access. The Ashuelot River runs through this region at approximately 738 feet elevation, creating opportunities for paddling and fishing during the May-October camping season. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing, making most camping options in the area seasonal.
What to do
Kayaking on the Ashuelot River: Ashuelot River Campground provides water recreation with direct access to the river. "Great riverfront location. Huge sites and a very helpful owner. What more could you want?" noted Wayne B. The river's gentle flow makes it suitable for beginners.
Hiking the rail trail: The historic Ashuelot Rail Trail connects directly to several campgrounds. "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. from Ashuelot River Campground.
Fishing in stocked ponds: Oxbow Campground maintains fishing ponds that are popular with families. "The fishing pond was perfect. I will be returning soon. I highly recommend this place if you have a family or simply need a place to clear your mind," reports Kelly W. Many campgrounds allow fishing without permits on private waters.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campground cleanliness ranks high in visitor feedback. "The campground is very clean and well manicured. Bath House is currently being updated. It is very clean," notes William about Caton Place Campground. Regular maintenance makes a significant difference in visitor experience.
River tubing opportunities: The gentle current of the Ashuelot River creates perfect conditions for tubing. "Great place to camp on the ashuelot river. Make sure to bring tubes for relaxing on the river. We brought our kayaks and had no problem kayaking on the flat surface river," advises Karen O. from Ashuelot River Campground.
Wildlife viewing: The waterways attract diverse wildlife. "Saw a bald eagle this past weekend while paddling up past the campground," shares Michael M. Mornings and evenings offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities along river edges and wooded areas.
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most glamping facilities and campgrounds operate from May through October. "Seasonal activities at these glamping destinations run primarily from May through October, with peak booking periods during summer months when water recreation is most popular," according to local information.
Site selection matters: Molly Stark State Park Campground offers varying levels of privacy. "The outer ring sites on the map have the most seclusion," advises Tim K. Request specific sites when making reservations for more privacy.
Water levels vary: During dry periods, river activities may be affected. "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," reports Rae-Ann W. Check water conditions before planning water recreation.
Tips for camping with families
Multiple water options: Friendly Beaver Campground provides varied swimming opportunities. "They have 3 outdoor pools and 1 indoor pool. Lots of activities for the kids and the bathrooms were pretty clean for a campground," notes Julia B. Indoor pools extend swimming season during cooler weather.
Animal encounters: Some campgrounds feature small petting zoos. "They have a few animals the kids can feed. They also have crafts, hayrides and games, playground and other events," explains Kate C. These activities provide entertainment during non-swimming hours.
Quieter weekday visits: For families seeking less crowded conditions, mid-week stays are recommended. "We went here with our RV group for a weekend rally and had a great time. The sites we good sized (had water and 30amp) and the campground was very clean and well kept," reports John O. Weekends typically see higher occupancy and more organized activities.
Tips from RVers
Access considerations: Some campgrounds have access limitations. "Follow the website directions to get here as there are covered bridges in the area with low clearance and low weight limits," warns John L. from Ashuelot River Campground. Always check route restrictions before arrival with larger vehicles.
Site leveling: Autumn Hills Campground presents some leveling challenges. "Situated primarily on a hillside, some of the sites are tricky to navigate with a camper, but it also minimizes the amount of neighbors you have if you are looking to have some quiet time," explains Rebecca N. Bring leveling blocks for hillside sites.
Hookup variations: Site utilities differ significantly across campgrounds. "We were in site 14 needed a very long sewer hose," notes Allura B. Pack extension hoses and adaptors to accommodate various hookup configurations.
