Camping options near Hampton, New Hampshire offer diverse experiences from riverfront RV sites to forested tent camping within 15 miles of the coast. The region spans from sea level at the coastal campgrounds to around 200 feet elevation at inland locations, creating microclimates that affect camping conditions throughout the May-October season. Morning fog commonly rolls in from the ocean during summer months, particularly at Hampton Beach State Park where visibility can be reduced until mid-morning.
What to do
Beach shuttles from inland sites: Several campgrounds located 5-10 miles from the coast offer transportation options to Hampton Beach during peak season. At Wakeda Campground, one camper noted, "Its a nice no frills campground... The location is great being 10 minutes or so from Hampton Beach. Lots of little farms in the area too."
Fishing opportunities: Multiple water access points around Hampton provide both freshwater and saltwater fishing. At Hampton Beach State Park Campground, fishing is popular along the Hampton River inlet. According to one visitor, "It is basically a parking lot, but with full hookups and on the ocean. The ocean breezes are fantastic. One side of the campground is bordered by an inlet that fishing boats use to head out from the harbor."
Kayaking the marshes: The inland waterways near Hampton offer protected paddling routes. At Pawtuckaway State Park Campground, located about 35 minutes northwest of Hampton, "There are at least three campground areas, one of which is on an island and has tent sites along the water. If possible, reserve those to ensure the best spots (the sunrise!), but all of the campground sites are nice."
What campers like
Off-season tranquility: Many prefer camping near Hampton outside peak summer months. At Salisbury Beach State Reservation, just across the Massachusetts border, campers appreciate the shoulder season. "Campsites are close together, but the beach is amazing. Especially in the off season," notes one reviewer who stays when crowds diminish.
Weekend entertainment: Several campgrounds schedule regular activities. One visitor at Beach Rose RV Park mentioned, "The park is a great place. Friendly people and close to the beach and tons to do year round."
Well-maintained facilities: Cleanliness ranks high in camper priorities. A guest at Sea Coast Camping and RV Resort shared, "This is one of the cleanest, most meticulously maintained campground we have been to. So quiet and peaceful as well. Wifi service was excellent."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most Hampton area campgrounds require significant advance booking during summer. For Hampton Beach State Park Campground, "It is very difficult to get reservations as it is extremely popular."
Site privacy varies substantially: Campgrounds closer to the beach typically offer less separation between sites. At Tidewater Campground, "The tent sites are definitely tighter than trailer sites. Some sites back up to each other and it takes a moment to understand where one ends and the next begins."
Weather considerations: Coastal wind can affect camping comfort. One Hampton Beach State Park visitor advised, "Be careful of your awning as it is very windy."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Look for campgrounds with dedicated recreation areas. At Wakeda Campground, families appreciate the range of activities: "Great employees, clean reliable power. No issues great spread out sites."
Accessibility to attractions: Choose locations with easy access to both beaches and inland activities. Pawtuckaway State Park Campground provides diverse options: "Excellent hiking, beach, wildlife-filled wetlands, girding, geology, forests, and water to enjoy. Pretty serious trail up and around some mountains, to a fire tower, ponds."
Noise factors: Some campgrounds enforce strict quiet hours while others become social hubs. One visitor to Salisbury Beach State Reservation observed: "Clean facilities, super quick access to the beach, friendly staff, sites are pretty close together with little separation between each other. RV & tent sites available. Our family loves both the ocean & camping so it is a win-win!"
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Choose your campground based on specific RV needs. At Beach Rose RV Park, "Owners were helpful on arrival, level concrete pad full hookups. Sites close together but quiet."
Seasonal considerations: Many RV parks reduce rates outside peak season. One camper at Sea Coast Camping noted, "Our site (#124) was one of the new sites which they had just completed. It was a gravel back-in which was plenty long and level... We were there in the off-season (May) and didn't have any neighbors so it was pretty quiet."
Utility reliability: Power quality varies between campgrounds. Hampton Beach State Park requires self-contained RVs, as noted by one visitor: "Hampton Beach SP is a small beachside campground for self-contained RVs only."
