Campsites around Gilsum, New Hampshire range from 800 to 1,500 feet in elevation within the Monadnock Region's rolling hills and dense forests. Summer temperatures typically reach 75-85°F during the day, dropping to 55-65°F at night. The camping season in this area runs primarily from mid-May through mid-October, with most facilities closing after Columbus Day weekend.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: At Jamaica State Park Campground, multiple trails lead to scenic water features. "There is plenty of trails in the area and you can go to the waterfall/rock slides and take a dip in the pools. The area is beautiful and good food across the street!" notes Jackie G. The park offers both challenging and gentle options for visitors of different abilities.
Blueberry picking: Tree Farm Campground provides on-site berry picking during summer months. "This was a very simple basic campground but the best part was that it was very quiet and cool despite the highest temps VT had seen in a long time. It had well-maintained grounds and some cute activities for the younger kids. Even blueberry picking on site," shares Emily H.
Kayaking and canoeing: Chapman Acres offers paddling opportunities with equipment included. "A hidden path nearby brings you to a canopy covered swing that overlooks the pond. Another path leads you to the canoe access," explains Kathleen W. The site provides two kayaks at one location and canoe access at another, making water activities easily accessible without bringing your own equipment.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Woodmore Family Campground offers secluded camping areas with natural separation. "The grounds were beautiful and the sites were a good size. Very happy with the facility and will be returning for sure," reports Tara K. Sites feature varying elevations and tree coverage for privacy between camping spots.
Clean facilities: Jamaica State Park Campground maintains well-kept bathrooms and shower facilities. "Clean bathrooms, roomy tent sites, nice staff. Fun playground and nature area for kids. Very family friendly place with beautiful hikes to Hamilton falls," explains Fransheska A. The park also offers lean-to sites along the river for those seeking alternative accommodations.
Limited connectivity: Many campers appreciate the chance to disconnect at these campgrounds. "Small town general store, no cell service and a gorgeous back drop is a perfect spot to just unwind from the real world," says Brittany B. about Jamaica State Park. This digital detox experience is consistent throughout many rv parks near Gilsum, New Hampshire.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Most campgrounds in the region fill quickly during peak season. At Gilson Pond Campground in Monadnock State Park, early booking is essential. "Stayed at this campground for a Sun./Mon. night end of September, so 'missed the weekend crowds' which was just fine," notes one reviewer. Weekday stays typically offer more availability and quieter experiences.
Pet policies: Restrictions vary significantly between facilities. Silver Lakes Park Campground doesn't allow pets at all. Alternatively, Tree Farm Campground is pet-friendly and even includes a dog park with toys. Always check individual campground rules before bringing animals.
Seasonal weather considerations: Campgrounds in the Gilsum area experience significant temperature variations. "We tent camped here with 2 other families in the summer of 2019. Everything was clean, staff was friendly and attentive," mentions Salvatore P. about Woodmore Family Campground. Spring and fall camping requires warmer gear, while summer visitors should prepare for occasional heat waves and thunderstorms.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Silver Lakes Park Campground offers family-focused amenities. "Silver Lake Park Campground and Cabins was an incredibly well maintained campground off Jamestown Road in Belmont NH. 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," explains Kirsten J.
Swimming options: Sandy Beach Campground provides water recreation for children. "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. Water quality and swimming conditions vary by location and time of year.
Activities during inclement weather: Pack indoor games and identify nearby attractions for rainy days. Tree Farm Campground includes "a cozy lounge room to hang out in with games, books, crayons, and puzzles," according to Lee A. Indoor spaces become essential during New England's unpredictable weather patterns.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: When booking rv parks near Gilsum, New Hampshire, research site dimensions carefully. "TT members will find all the comforts of home. Staff is pleasant and helpful. Quiet during the weekdays, picks up over weekends but not too overbearing," notes Robert M. about Sandy Beach Campground. Many reviewers emphasize the importance of calling ahead to confirm site sizes match your rig.
Tree clearance challenges: Dorset RV Park has significant tree issues for larger vehicles. "Larger rigs might want to avoid loop 6-14, especially for sites 8-12. Tree placement and a pretty sharp 110+ degree turn makes it challenging to maneuver," warns Katie E. Request specific information about turning radius and overhead clearance when making reservations.
Electrical considerations: Verify power reliability before booking. "The electrical system has claimed countless rv components and 2 total losses. Instead of fixing it, they simply run generators for years. If you go take every precaution from the electrical. It's dangerous," cautions Glenn M. about one campground. Quality surge protectors are essential equipment when visiting rv campgrounds in this region.
