The Hampton Beach camping area encompasses a 15-mile stretch of coastal New Hampshire terrain with elevations rarely exceeding 50 feet above sea level. Most campgrounds near Hampton Beach operate from May through mid-October, with July and August temperatures averaging 75-85°F during the day and 60-65°F overnight. Winter camping isn't available at most locations due to frozen water systems and seasonal closures.
What to do
Explore quiet water access: The campground at Pawtuckaway State Park offers excellent paddling opportunities. "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.
Fish from multiple locations: Fishing spots abound near Hampton Beach with both freshwater and saltwater options. "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.
Visit nearby coastal towns: The area provides easy access to historic seaport communities. "You are also just twenty minutes or so to Portsmouth and Newburyport which are some of our favorite New England coastal towns," shares Nancy W. about Sea Coast Camping.
What campers like
Wooded campsites with shade: Wakeda Campground offers sites with mature trees. "We were overwhelmed by the beautiful massive forest. The campground was splendid with old tall, pine trees everywhere," writes Pawsfuradventure T.
Concrete pads at premium sites: Beach Rose RV Park provides level parking areas. "Owners were helpful on arrival, level concrete pad full hookups. Sites close together but quiet," notes Jackie M.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained grounds. "This is one of the cleanest, most meticulously maintained campground we have been to. So quiet and peaceful as well. Wifi service was exellent," reports Rebecca S. about Sea Coast Camping.
What you should know
Site spacing varies significantly: Most campgrounds have mixed site layouts. "Sites are close together, but the beach is amazing. Especially in the off season," mentions Shawn about Salisbury Beach State Reservation.
Reservation timing matters: Popular waterfront locations fill quickly. "It opens about a month before Memorial Day weekend for a quieter shoulder season. There's no protection from the sun, so you may appreciate a shelter of some sort," advises Jean C. about Hampton Beach State Park.
Seasonal campers occupy sections: Many campgrounds have long-term residents. "Half of the park is seasonal campers (which is a lot more cramped and more junked up) and the other half is for transients. The two sides are separated by a tree line where the tent sites are located," explains Nancy W.
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: The Pines Camping Area offers play equipment for children. "The playground is perfect for kids, the creek is right behind you which gave us beautiful views right outside our RV window(s)," says Stephanie.
Beach access timing: Plan early morning or evening beach visits during summer. "We rode bikes to Salisbury Beach and my young adult son rode his longboard to the beach," shares Ray C. about Beach Rose RV Park.
Wildlife observation opportunities: Natural areas offer educational experiences. "My son and I loved watching the baby field mice play in the marsh land," explains Heather B. about The Pines Camping Area.
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: Check utility placement before selecting sites. "The electrical post and water hookup were placed way behind our site and we could not reach even with our 40' electrical cord. Park staff told us we could back onto the grass in order to reach the electric," shares Nancy W. about Salisbury Beach.
Road conditions: Some campgrounds have narrow access roads. "The roads in the park are fairly narrow and we had to drive over the grass across from our site in order to back in," notes a reviewer about Sea Coast Camping and RV Resort.
Dog friendly campgrounds near Hampton Beach: Most campgrounds accommodate pets with specific rules. "The campground features...full-hookup sites that welcome dogs and other pets with a strictly enforced leash policy," notes a review of pet-friendly camping options, while another camper mentioned, "Good sites, with water and 30 amp electric. Easy walk to the beach. Dog friendly, big dump site, and good prices."
