Cabins near Hampstead, New Hampshire provide lodging options in southern New Hampshire's Rockingham County where the terrain consists primarily of woodlands and small waterways. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F while fall temperatures drop to 40-65°F between September and October. Many cabin rental locations close after Columbus Day weekend when seasonal campground operations end throughout the region.
What to do
Paddle the waterways: Pawtuckaway State Park features kayak and canoe rentals for exploring the lake. "This a a fantastic little camp for if you want to go canoeing or kayaking or boating of any kind! It's set up of three islands and a large majority of the campsites are right on the water," notes Matt R. about Pawtuckaway State Park Campground.
Hiking trails: Bear Brook State Park encompasses 10,000 acres of forest preserve with numerous trails. "Located in a 10000 acre forest preserve, the campground is heavily forested and very secluded from civilization. We stayed on site 22, which was spacious and private from the other sites on either side," shares Ellen C. about her experience at Bear Brook State Park Campground.
Swimming options: Multiple lakes and ponds offer swimming during summer months. According to Ellen C., "We were there in the fall but the swimming area at the pond looked very inviting for summer time campers" at Bear Brook State Park.
Mountain biking: Several trail systems accommodate mountain bikes. "We camped here to check out the mountain bike trails in the park and we're not disappointed on either count. The campground is nice and spacious, well kept and the staff is friendly. The biking trails were a blast," explains Eammon C. about Bear Brook State Park.
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Lake-adjacent campsites provide direct water access. "The sites on the water book up quickly but they're perfect for fishing and boating. Also, the view!" says J L. about Pawtuckaway State Park Campground.
Woodland privacy: Many cabins are situated in secluded forest settings. "Located Beside a lake, The water is great for swimming, and the playground is absolutely perfect for kids and adults alike. This is a yearly spot I take my family, and we're never disappointed!" mentions Alyse-Beast F. about Calef Lake Camping Area.
Proximity to beaches: Several cabin rental locations offer convenient access to coastal areas. "Friendly campground with great staff. Late back atmosphere, so easy to relax here," says Kelly F. about Wakeda Campground. Another camper noted, "Its a nice no frills campground. We stayed in one of cabins and it served its purpose especially during a passing storm. It was nice to sit in the front porch and watch the storm."
What you should know
Reservation timing: Waterfront sites book far in advance, especially for summer weekends. "What a beautiful location! If you plan ahead and get a water front site it's amazing... but all the sites are roomy and lovely to camp at!" advises Erin W. at Pawtuckaway State Park.
Pet policies: Restrictions vary by season and location. "Tried to plan ahead this year and get a prime site to learn they don't allow dogs anywhere in the campground during summer months," notes Erin W. about Pawtuckaway.
Weather considerations: Fall camping requires preparation for temperature drops. Kris M. reports about Pawtuckaway: "We went in early May, when it was still a bit cold at night (in the low 40s) and not many people were around. The campground, though we had neighbors in every adjoining site, was pretty quiet."
Seasonal operation: Most facilities operate from May through October. "I camped here last year. The sites are level and roomy. The bathroom was clean. The walk to the beach was along a public parking lot. The beach was clean. The small store is well stocked. You can rent kayaks here," notes Susan B. about Pawtuckaway.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds feature multiple play areas for children. "The pool, playground, bathrooms, and basketball court were all open and well maintained. We really enjoyed our stay!" shares Kristen L. about Tuxbury Pond RV Campground.
Activity schedules: Weekend programming often includes family-oriented events. "I hadn't camped here in the past 8 years, so decided it was time to revisit. During the peak season, I'm sure it's a different story given it's proximity to Concord and Manchester and the variety of activities available," explains Jean C. about Bear Brook State Park.
Noise levels: Sound carries between sites at some locations. "This campground is beautiful and in a nice location in the state park but is really crowded in the summer months with large groups of loud children," warns Madison G. about Pawtuckaway.
Swimming areas: Dedicated beaches provide safer water access for children. "Small campground but we had fun here. Small lake to swim in and a small playground. They had a beach dance which was really fun," says Rhonda B. about Calef Lake.
Tips from RVers
Utility hookups: Sites with electric, water, and sewer connections have varied availability. "Sites weren't bad, clean campground, pool & canoe rentals, family activities offered, short drive to the beaches. Primitive camping, waterfront sites & cabins available," shares Sara D. about Exeter Elms Campground.
Site dimensions: Plot sizes vary significantly between campgrounds and specific site numbers. "We stayed At Wakeda Campground overnight during a trip from Maine back to Long Island, NY. It was located very close off of 95 and allows pets. We were overwhelmed by the beautiful massive forest," describes Pawsfuradventure T.
Level terrain: Some locations feature more even campsites than others. "The campground and bathrooms are kept very clean," states Kelly F. about Wakeda, while another camper noted "Great employees, clean reliable power. No issues great spread out sites."
Access roads: Interior campground roads can be challenging to navigate. "The sites vary greatly in size. Many of the sites are separated from their neighbors by large, downed pine trees. I was in site 38 and found that the little loop to my campsite was tight to exit and I had to be careful to swing wide at the corner," explains Jean C. about Bear Brook State Park.
