Best Campgrounds near Grafton, NH

Campgrounds around Grafton, New Hampshire range from established sites with amenities to more primitive options in the surrounding White Mountains region. Cardigan Campsites in nearby Alexandria offers tent camping with basic amenities including drinking water and toilets. Within driving distance, campers can find more developed options like Baker River Campground in Rumney, which accommodates tents and RVs with electric hookups, showers, and water access. Several campgrounds in the area feature cabin accommodations, including Meredith Woods Four Season Camping and Ashland New Hampshire Jellystone Park, providing alternatives for those seeking more comfort.

The camping season in this part of New Hampshire typically runs from May through October, with most campgrounds closing after Columbus Day weekend. Road access varies throughout the region, with some sites requiring advance planning. "The sites are fairly large and if you need some privacy, reserve site 12," noted one visitor about a nearby state park. Winter conditions can be severe, and spring often brings muddy conditions that may limit accessibility to certain campgrounds. Cell service can be spotty throughout the region, particularly in more remote areas near mountains or within valleys. Many campgrounds require reservations, especially during peak summer weekends and fall foliage season when the area attracts significant tourism.

Water features prominently in camping experiences around Grafton, with several campgrounds situated along rivers or lakes. Campers report high satisfaction with waterfront sites, which tend to fill quickly during summer months. According to one visitor, "Fourth Iron Campground is a small campground with 28 wooded sites situated immediately off the Kancamagus Highway in the White Mountains of New Hampshire... Sites are situated just off the Sacco River and river access is easy, with multiple rocky beaches in between the sites and river." Noise levels vary significantly between campgrounds, with those closer to highways experiencing more road noise than more secluded options. Most campgrounds in the region offer fire rings and picnic tables, though amenities like showers and electric hookups are primarily found at the more developed private campgrounds rather than state park or forest service sites.

Best Camping Sites Near Grafton, New Hampshire (218)

    1. Cardigan Campsites

    4 Reviews
    Orange, NH
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 466-2727

    2. Quechee State Park Campground

    23 Reviews
    Quechee, VT
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (802) 295-2990

    $20 / night

    "There is a “campers only” access trail to Quechee Gorge that we took advantage of, which then gave us access to the Dewey Pond trail."

    "The Quechee Gorge, best accessed from the back of the lawn behind the bathhouse, is the deepest in Vermont.. which is kind of like saying the best bagel or most populous city in Vermont."

    3. Baker River Campground

    9 Reviews
    Rumney, NH
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 786-9707

    $35 - $42 / night

    "This place was a great option for staying close to Rumney for climbing. They have a group campsite specifically for climbers, which was $10 a person when we stayed there."

    "Some sites are more private than others but overall quiet, and in a beautiful spot right next to the river. It's in a great location being near the main roads but far enough away that it seems remote."

    4. Meredith Woods Four Season Camping

    9 Reviews
    New Hampton, NH
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 279-5449

    $44 - $135 / night

    "They also have a nice game room for them kids or grown ups that struggle to leave technology behind."

    5. Newfound RV Park

    2 Reviews
    Bristol, NH
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 744-3344

    $33 - $60 / night

    "The campground was a great base location for the local attractions and sights. Our compacted ground site was level and had a dedicated patch of grass with a small tree."

    6. Clearwater Campground

    6 Reviews
    New Hampton, NH
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 279-7761

    $33 - $56 / night

    "The lake beach was fantastic, very nicely maintained. Kayak rental was super cheap and easy to do!

    The campground is relatively near Meredith town center, and not far from Weirs beach."

    8. Moose Hillock Camping Resort

    20 Reviews
    Warren, NH
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 764-5294

    $49 - $129 / night

    "Both times were very different experiences, but overall very positive. Just because there are a few, I will mention the cons first."

    "We have stayed in 3 different sections and they are all great with my preference being site 20 with the brook running behind your site which is on a small but nice nature trail."

    9. Pine Haven

    6 Reviews
    Rumney, NH
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 786-2900

    $38 - $100 / night

    "I took off a star because when we came back to our campsite on Saturday afternoon, there was an ongoing loud motor noise of ATVs racing, as there is a race track nearby."

    "The sites near the river are really nice, a big of a steep slope down to the river. The river is about thigh deep and you can easily walk in it/swim at potions. The pool is small but nice. "

    10. Pillsbury State Park Campground

    14 Reviews
    Washington, NH
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 863-2860

    $29 - $40 / night

    "Many campsites are on the lake. None are very far from the lake.  There are also a few 'remote' campsites that are not accessable by car. They are accessable by a sort walk or boat. "

    "Pillsbury resides in a very pretty spot nestled around a lake. There are campsites that are car accesable and remote campsites only accessable by boat. Canoe rentals are available at the park."

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Recent Reviews near Grafton, NH

936 Reviews of 218 Grafton Campgrounds


  • Panvira T.
    Oct. 14, 2025

    Fransted Family Campground

    Good location

    The place so nice and cleaned,quite also close to you must see and things to do. The price reasonable too. Highly recommended

  • Lin C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 10, 2025

    Spacious Skies French Pond

    Best Camp in the area

    I am enjoying this camp still, even after 6 months. Management is wonderful and attentive. They take great care of the whole camp and us campers. Fun events are scheduled on the regular!

  • B The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 7, 2025

    Quechee State Park Campground

    Beautiful, road noise, not a lot there

    Big, flat, beautiful sites. Road noise isn't super loud, but it's constant. Might be the nicest bathrooms I've seen in decades of camping.

    The weird thing is that there just isn't much here. The Quechee Gorge, best accessed from the back of the lawn behind the bathhouse, is the deepest in Vermont.. which is kind of like saying the best bagel or most populous city in Vermont. Prepared to be whelmed.

    It's a ~30 minute hike, you can access some slow semi-rapids at the bottom.

    Camping at the SP does give access to another trail that's moderately challenging and has both some level spots and a nice overlook.

    Don't regret the trip at all but it seems more like an awesome stopover than a worthwhile destination. Some decent restaurants in the area and even more in nearby Lebanon/White River Junction.

  • Julie A.
    Sep. 30, 2025

    Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park™ Camp Resort, Lakes Region

    Downhill since new management

    Yogi’s Jellystone Park– Milton, New Hampshire: Seasonal Camper Review I have been camping at Yogi’s Jellystone Park in Milton for five years, including the last two as a seasonal camper. Unfortunately, my recent experiences under new management have been disappointing and frustrating. Pet Fence Policy and Safety Concerns
At the start of this season, the new general manager, Amanda, instructed me to remove my pet fence, citing liability issues. Despite my having signed a waiver absolving the park of responsibility for my dog’s actions, she insisted on its removal without providing a clear explanation. I complied reluctantly, only to observe many other campsites retaining similar pet fences throughout the season, including one seasonal camper who kept theirs up all season and transient sites with fences as well. This inconsistent enforcement of rules is unfair and undermines trust. After seeing others with pet fences, I reinstated mine to protect my dog, especially after two incidents where loose dogs entered my site and charged at my dog. Amanda then threatened me with non-renewal of my seasonal contract if I did not remove the fence again, forcing me to comply once more. I wrote to corporate regarding this issue since Amanda was of no help but never heard back from corporate. Loss of Seasonal Site and Corporate Decisions
Yogi’s removed nine seasonal sites this year, including mine, with little warning. This decision affects long-term campers, some with over 20 years of history at the park. It appears motivated by corporate interests, favoring transient sites or cabins, which generate more revenue. The loss of a seasonal site after investing time, effort, and money into making it beautiful is deeply disheartening and reflects poor management priorities. Entertainment and Atmosphere
Adult entertainment offerings have drastically declined. This year’s highlight was a 30-minute Saturday night hayride, with no live bands in the pavilion throughout the entire season. Under previous management, live music was a regular and enjoyable feature. The lack of engaging activities diminishes the overall campground experience. Myself and other campers offered suggestions to management regarding entertainment for adults but they didn't take any of our suggestions. Bear Interaction
Despite the park’s theme, sightings of Yogi Bear are rare. On one occasion, a golf cart carrying excited children stopped to see Yogi Bear, but the character ignored them and drove past without interaction, which was very disappointing. Management and Staff Attitude
Amanda, the general manager, presents as unapproachable and aloof. She did not introduce herself to seasonal campers at the beginning of the season, many of whom do not even know what she looks like and the camping season ends in just a couple of weeks. Most staff members also exhibit a snobbish attitude, often failing to acknowledge campers, which creates an unwelcoming environment. Cost and Recommendation
The campground is overpriced relative to the quality of experience and level of service provided. Given the inconsistent rule enforcement, loss of seasonal sites, diminished entertainment, and poor management attitude, I cannot recommend Yogi’s Jellystone Park in Milton NH Those interested in a Yogis campground should consider other locations.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 29, 2025

    Storrs Pond Recreation Area

    Okay

    Stayed here on a Sunday night in late September. It was very quiet and peaceful. Tent sites were hilly/uneven and extremely far from the toilets and bathhouse. Bathhouse is old and run down. The shower curtains were covered in mildew so we decided not to shower. We were just here overnight and did not make use of the other recreation facilities.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 18, 2025

    Meredith Woods Four Season Camping

    Now called HUNTERS RUN Rv Park

    Good spot, lots of seasonal campers, new corporate owners and it’s named Hunter’s Run RV Park. Combined with another campground across the street. Called for reservations and staff helpful once they answered. Store and office hours are erratic. FireWood supply “iffy” so brought some locally sourced food. Camped at Lakeside area.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 18, 2025

    Clearwater Campground

    Now Hunter’s Run RV Park

    This is now called Hunter’s Run. Many seasonal campsites more than half the campground. Good site spacing. Store only open limited hours and staff on site only limited hours. Probably due to new corporate owners. Very quiet off season and during the week. No wood available during our visit, 2 bundles locked in cage area but nobody around to purchase from. Bathhouses and showers very clean at lakeside section of campground. Nice clean beach area at the lake. Looks like kayak and canoe rentals. This is on south side of NH route 104 which is a busy road. Some road noise noticed from our location near the lake. Gravel/dirt sites with fire pits ( rocks ) and picnic table. Called office to arrange for site and they called back. Staff very helpful to find a good site and making reservations.


Guide to Grafton

Camping locations near Grafton, New Hampshire range from primitive sites to more developed campgrounds across central New Hampshire's rolling terrain. The region sits within the Mascoma River watershed at elevations between 800-1,200 feet, creating diverse microclimates that affect camping conditions throughout the season. Winter snowpack typically melts by late April, though some campgrounds remain muddy into early May.

What to do

Swimming and water activities: Pine Haven offers excellent water access with sites positioned along a river. "Loved our time here! We had a site right on the river and the view was amazing. The sites are pretty well spaced apart and well kept," reports Kayleen C. The river depth is manageable for most ages, as Brandon C. notes, "The river is about thigh deep and you can easily walk in it/swim at portions."

Hiking opportunities: Pillsbury State Park Campground connects to extensive trail systems. "There are great hikes that you can get to right from your campsite, connecting to the Monadnock-Sunapee greenway (a 48 mile trail connecting two of NH's beautiful mountains)," explains Matthew S. The trail network makes it easy to explore without driving elsewhere.

Fishing spots: Clearwater Campground provides excellent fishing access with budget-friendly equipment rentals. According to Paummi S., "We really came to kayak and fish and were not at all disappointed. Easy access to the lake, beautiful water, and my husband could not put a hook in without catching something." The fishing remains productive throughout the summer season.

What campers like

Private, spacious sites: Moose Hillock Camping Resort receives consistent praise for site spacing. Jessica W. highlights, "I'll mention the privacy of sites again because it truly is worth mentioning. Avoid 37 and 40 though- expert opinion." This privacy creates a more natural camping experience despite being at a developed campground.

Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness varies significantly between campgrounds. At Quechee State Park Campground, Chris A. observes, "The bathrooms are immaculate with coin (quarters) operated showers." Many campgrounds enforce strict cleaning schedules, with some sites like Clearwater offering freshly renovated shower facilities.

Night sky viewing: Dark skies outside town centers provide excellent stargazing opportunities. Brandon C. mentions Pine Haven's advantage: "The night sky is lovely to look at in the middle of the field they have." The region's limited light pollution creates optimal conditions for astronomy enthusiasts during clear summer nights.

What you should know

Site challenges: Not all campsites are created equal. At Baker River Campground, Tyler A. cautions, "The sites are so close together that it is uncomfortable. Despite this, we had to park and haul our gear basically right through other people's campground to get to our site." Research your specific site before booking.

Varying noise levels: Campground noise policies differ substantially. Regarding Moose Hillock, Jessica W. reports, "Noise level isn't monitored by staff, so don't expect it quiet at quiet time." Call ahead to understand quiet hour enforcement if this matters to your camping experience.

Terrain considerations: Hilly topography affects accessibility at many campgrounds. At Moose Hillock, Jessica W. advises, "The hilly terrain is insaneeee! If you have never been before, book a sight as close as possible to the pool and office, because the further you get, the higher the altitude."

Tips for camping with families

Pool access: For family entertainment, Meredith Woods Four Season Camping offers year-round swimming. Mara S. explains, "Indoor pool and hot tub are amazing on a snowy frigid winter day." The indoor pool remains heated through winter, making it usable even during shoulder seasons.

Playground considerations: Size and age-appropriateness of play equipment varies widely. At Meredith Woods, Dennis O. notes, "Family with kids the only down, wish the playground was bigger, and height smaller. Not a structure for small children." Check specific playground details if traveling with young children.

Activity scheduling: Campground programming differs substantially between locations. At Quechee State Park, Jen B. describes, "Rangers also run fun programs for children- my children churned butter and made popcorn over the campfire one night, and made tie dyed T-shirts the next (for no fee.)" Many programs operate only on weekends during peak season.

Tips from RVers

Site leveling challenges: Many campsites require significant leveling. Eric H. notes about Clearwater Campground, "Lot was not level. Lot was roomy." Bring adequate leveling blocks, especially for larger rigs.

Hookup variations: Electric service differs between campgrounds. At Baker River Campground, campers can expect full hookups including sewer, while Pillsbury State Park offers no hookups whatsoever. Check specific site utilities when booking, as they may vary within the same campground.

Winter access: Year-round camping options exist but require planning. Mara S. appreciates Meredith Woods' reliability: "Snow ploughing happens regularly and reliably." Winter camping typically requires reservations at specialized campgrounds as most state parks close after Columbus Day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the campgrounds near Grafton, NH?

Several campgrounds are located near Grafton, NH. Cardigan Campsites in Alexandria offers a rustic camping experience with basic amenities including water and toilets. A bit further but still convenient is Baker River Campground in Rumney, which offers multiple access options including drive-in sites, and is suitable for big rigs. Other nearby options include Newfound RV Park in Bridgewater and Pillsbury State Park Campground, which offers more primitive camping with lakeside sites but no electric hookups or showers.

How far is Grafton, NH from Hampton Beach?

Grafton, NH is approximately 100 miles from Hampton Beach, which typically takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours to drive, depending on traffic conditions. If you're planning to visit both areas, Bear Brook State Park Campground is located roughly halfway between them and offers a family-friendly environment with trails, ponds, play structures, and a beach. For those looking to stay closer to the coast, Ayers Lake Farm Campground and Cottages provides a beautiful lake setting that's still within reasonable driving distance to Hampton Beach.

What family resorts are available in Grafton, NH?

While Grafton itself is a small town with limited resort options, families can enjoy the nearby Moose Hillock Camping Resort in Warren, which offers drive-in access, reservable sites, and is big-rig friendly. For families seeking a camping resort experience with amenities, Ashland New Hampshire Jellystone Park provides a family-oriented atmosphere with activities and facilities designed specifically for children. Both locations offer a comfortable base for exploring the natural beauty of the region while providing conveniences that make family trips more enjoyable.