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Best Campgrounds near Hampstead, NH

746 Reviews

The area surrounding Hampstead, New Hampshire provides a range of camping experiences within a short drive of town. Several state parks and private campgrounds populate the region, with notable options including Pawtuckaway State Park Campground in Nottingham and Bear Brook State Park Campground in Deerfield. These established campgrounds accommodate various camping styles from traditional tent sites to RV hookups, with some parks like Bear Brook also offering cabin accommodations. Most campgrounds in this region are situated near lakes or ponds, creating opportunities for water recreation during summer months.

Seasonal operations significantly affect camping availability, with most campgrounds open from May through October. State park campgrounds such as Pawtuckaway typically operate from early May to late October, while private facilities like Tuxbury Pond RV Campground and Wakeda Campground maintain similar seasonal schedules from spring to fall. Advance reservations are strongly recommended, particularly for waterfront sites and weekend stays during peak summer months. Many campgrounds provide basic amenities including drinking water, flush toilets, and shower facilities, though hookup availability varies by location. One camper noted that "the sites are wooded and many provide views of the lake. Each campsite has an open fire ring, picnic table, flat areas for a tent, and a parking space."

Waterfront camping receives consistently high ratings from visitors, particularly at Pawtuckaway State Park where campers appreciate the lake access and paddling opportunities. Campers report that many sites offer reasonable privacy with good separation between neighbors. For those seeking a more developed camping experience, private campgrounds like Wakeda Campground and Tuxbury Pond RV Resort provide additional amenities such as swimming pools, camp stores, and full hookups for RVs. Bear Brook State Park stands out for families with children due to its playground facilities, hiking trails, and swimming beaches. As one visitor observed, "Bear Brook is full of trails, ponds and a fairly large campground. This extremely family-friendly campground comes equipped with trails, play structures, camp store, beach, and even a small baseball diamond."

Map showing campgrounds near Hampstead, New HampshireExplore the Map

Best Camping Sites Near Hampstead, New Hampshire (142)

    1. Pawtuckaway State Park Campground

    44 Reviews
    Raymond, NH
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 895-3031

    $35 - $140 / night

    "Driving around this past weekend I did notice that some of the sites had damp spots; site 71 was the worst with deep mud on the long approach."

    "My first time experiencing a park in the New Hampshire Park system. We went down with a group. Pawtuckaway State Park offers a variety of landscapes, with something to do and see for everyone."

    2. Lorraine Park Campground — Harold Parker State Forest

    33 Reviews
    North Reading, MA
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (978) 475-7972

    $17 - $35 / night

    "You could be tucked away from everyone or closer together depending on the site you choose but they are all pretty decent in size. All sites have water which is a plus."

    "The bathroom was right next to us. Very clean with a sink outside and shower inside. Overall very great campsite. Would definitely go there more often."

    3. Bear Brook State Park Campground

    28 Reviews
    Candia, NH
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 485-9869

    $35 - $45 / night

    "Tucked away in what feels like the middle of nowhere New Hampshire is it's largest state park. Bear Brook is full of trails, ponds and a fairly large campground."

    "Site 91 is near the entrance, but large and set back from the camp road, so it offers some extra seclusion. It’s across the street from the playground."

    4. Tuxbury Pond RV Campground

    14 Reviews
    South Hampton, NH
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "entrance (seems to happen frequently, I guess)."

    "We went just for one night with a tent because our 5 years old loooves camping, so we reserved this at the last minute, and when we get there, well, the tent sites are way too close to each other, thank"

    5. Salisbury Beach State Reservation

    26 Reviews
    Salisbury, MA
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (978) 462-4481

    $28 - $38 / night

    "The electrical post and water hookup were placed way behind our site and we could not reach even with our 40’ electrical cord."

    "The feel here is electric, and positive. Lots of RV’s that stay here all summer long. Feels like you are in a tight-knit community, very friendly folks, packed tightly together."

    6. Wakeda Campground, LLC

    16 Reviews
    Exeter, NH
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 772-5274

    $48 - $97 / night

    "We had bathrooms located near our site. They were four separate bathrooms that had a sink and toilet and were clean. They did offer showers in another area but I did not use them."

    "Our full hookup site was very close to other sites, so unfortunately we had to deal with some noise issues."

    7. Calef Lake Camping Area

    7 Reviews
    Auburn, NH
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 483-8282

    $20 - $40 / night

    "Beautiful location in southern NH! Located Beside a lake, The water is great for swimming, and the playground is absolutely perfect for kids and adults alike."

    "They originally booked us on a site so small, our tent wouldn’t even fit so we weren’t going to be able to have a fire because our tent was so close to it."

    8. Hidden Valley RV and Golf Park

    4 Reviews
    Derry, NH
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 887-3767

    9. Beach Rose RV Park

    13 Reviews
    Salisbury, MA
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (978) 463-0226

    "Simple, clean, perfect pool set up, quiet and close to beaches and New Hampshire coastline."

    "Beach Rose RV Park in Salisbury, Massachusetts is a small, friendly, family-owned campground near the beach."

    10. Exeter Elms Campground

    7 Reviews
    Exeter, NH
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 778-7631

    $45 - $59 / night

    "Site across the path was a little loud, but we were too I imagine... bet it'd be lots of fun for the kiddos."

    "Sites weren’t bad, clean campground, pool & canoe rentals, family activities offered, short drive to the beaches. Primitive camping, waterfront sites & cabins available :)"

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Recent Camping Photos near Hampstead, NH

448 Photos of 142 Hampstead Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Hampstead, NH

746 Reviews of 142 Hampstead Campgrounds

  • 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.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 26, 2025

    Salisbury Beach State Reservation

    Only a 4 because of out of stater price

    Campsites are close together, but the beach is amazing. Especially in the off season.

  • Mindie C.
    Sep. 20, 2025

    Hanscom AFB FamCamp

    Great stop

    Lovely campground. Clean, good WiFi. Kind campers. Will be back

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 18, 2025

    Woodmore Family Campground and RV Park

    Good Campground

    Stayed for over a week off season , mid September. 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. 50 percent or more is seasonal camp sites. Sites in back are ok with trees and different levels. Sites are a little closer than I usually find. Neighbors are very considerate on site privacy. Owners are exceptionally helpful and work hard to keep the site functioning and clean. Coin operated showers with hot water, mostly nice and clean except after a crowd gets packed and checks out Sunday AM. Laundry room takes quarters for machines. Small store at office which was open every day. Game room with wi fi. Pool , playground , volleyball area. Good size wood bundle for $10 , delivered directly to your site. Lake access with kayaks , some local hiking. Major grocery store nearby along with Walmart.

  • Mindie C.
    Sep. 16, 2025

    York Beach Camper Park

    Hideaway

    Don’t let the entrance turn you off. Once you get back into the campgrounds, it’s so cute. You are nestled in the woods. You feel like you are in the Forest but so close to the ocean. It’s calm and peaceful. The owners are so friendly and kind.

  • SkipperAllen C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 8, 2025

    Wompatuck State Park Campground

    Very nice stopover

    Good place to spend the night.It was quiet comfortable and plenty of room between campsites

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 6, 2025

    Beach Rose RV Park

    Nice park

    Owners were helpful on arrival, level concrete pad full hookups. Sites close together but quiet.

Guide to Hampstead

Camping near Hampstead, New Hampshire, offers a great mix of outdoor fun and relaxation. With beautiful campgrounds just a short drive away, you can enjoy nature while making lasting memories with family and friends.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the scenic trails at Pawtuckaway State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "So many lovely waterfront sites, clean facilities, camp store and beach are great."
  • Water Activities: Enjoy kayaking or canoeing at Bear Brook State Park Campground. A camper shared, "This campground has a beach, a playground, a ball field, and a store."
  • Family Fun: Check out Normandy Farms Campground for activities like bike tracks and crafts. One family said, "Absolutely love this campground. It has so many things for the kids to do."

What campers like:

  • Spacious Sites: Campers appreciate the large, private sites at Greenfield State Park Campground. A long-time visitor noted, "If you like large sites in a wooded setting with many private ones, this is the place."
  • Clean Facilities: Many campers rave about the cleanliness of the bathrooms and showers at Wompatuck State Park Campground. One review stated, "The bathhouses are equipped with running water, flush toilets, and 24-hour showers."
  • Friendly Atmosphere: Campers often mention the welcoming vibe at Salisbury Beach State Reservation. A visitor remarked, "The campground has an active police station and patrol which is comforting."

What you should know:

  • Pet Policies: If you're bringing pets, be aware that some campgrounds, like Pawtuckaway State Park Campground, have restrictions. One reviewer pointed out, "Pets are NOT permitted in the campground or beach area during the summer season."
  • Crowded Weekends: Expect busier conditions on weekends at places like Bear Brook State Park Campground. A camper noted, "The weekend was packed! Our neighbors were playing karaoke till 11 pm."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, such as Wompatuck State Park Campground, may not have extensive amenities. A visitor mentioned, "There isn’t much to the RV sites but an electric plug."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Activities for Kids: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and organized activities, like Normandy Farms Campground. One parent said, "The sites are level, the bathrooms/showers are spotless with piped-in music and hairdryers."
  • Plan for Mosquitoes: Be prepared with bug spray, especially at Greenfield State Park Campground. A camper warned, "Watch for ticks."
  • Pack Snacks: Having snacks on hand can keep the kids happy during hikes or downtime. A visitor at Sandy Pines Campground mentioned, "Wonderful store and facilities, beautiful pool with very natural landscaping."

Tips from RVers:

  • Leveling Blocks: Bring plenty of leveling blocks, especially for sites like those at Normandy Farms Campground. One RVer advised, "We basically had to park sideways and use a lot of leveling blocks to get our rig level."
  • Check Site Size: Make sure to check the size of your site before booking at places like Minute Man Campground. A camper noted, "Some of the FHU sites are pretty tight."
  • Call Ahead: For the best spots, consider calling the campground directly instead of booking online. A visitor at Saco Old Orchard Beach KOA suggested, "CALL instead of booking online to get a good spot."

Camping near Hampstead, New Hampshire, has something for everyone, whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the campgrounds in Hampstead, NH?

While Hampstead itself has limited camping options, there are several excellent campgrounds in the surrounding area. Tuxbury Pond RV Campground is located near South Hampton, offering drive-in access with reservable sites, water hookups, and facilities that accommodate big rigs. Another nearby option is Calef Lake Camping Area in Auburn, which provides similar amenities. The greater region also features Hidden Valley RV and Golf Park in Derry and Exeter Elms Campground. These facilities place you within easy driving distance of Hampstead while providing comfortable camping experiences.

What amenities are available at Hampstead NH camping facilities?

Campgrounds near Hampstead offer diverse amenities to enhance your camping experience. Woodmore Family Campground and RV Park provides clean facilities, numerous recreational activities, and friendly staff in a well-maintained environment. Pawtuckaway State Park Campground offers large, level sites (many with water access), plus swimming, hiking, kayaking, biking, canoeing, fishing, bouldering, and geocaching opportunities. Other nearby campgrounds typically include basic amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, and restroom facilities. Many also feature camp stores selling firewood and supplies, while family-oriented campgrounds often include playgrounds, swimming pools, and organized activities.

When is the best time of year to camp in Hampstead, New Hampshire?

The ideal camping season in the Hampstead area runs from late May through early October, with each period offering distinct advantages. Summer (June-August) provides the warmest temperatures for swimming and water activities at places like Ayers Lake Farm Campground and Cottages, which offers beautiful pond views. Early fall (September-early October) delivers spectacular foliage, comfortable daytime temperatures, and fewer crowds at campgrounds like Bear Brook State Park Campground, New Hampshire's largest state park with numerous trails and ponds. Many campgrounds in the region operate seasonally, with limited or no services available during winter months. For the best balance of pleasant weather and moderate crowds, consider camping in June or September.

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