Tent campsites near Hampton, New Hampshire range from basic primitive sites to campgrounds with essential amenities within a 30-mile drive. The coastal region averages 52 inches of annual precipitation with summer temperatures typically reaching the mid-80s°F. Winter camping options are severely limited with most facilities closing after mid-October, though a few year-round sites can be found at inland locations.
What to do
Beach access opportunities: Sun Outdoors Saco Old Orchard Beach provides a shuttle service during summer months for convenient beach trips. "This campground is four miles from Old Orchard Beach which is a trip. It is a throw-back from your childhood when carnival rides and funnel cakes made you so happy," notes one camper.
Explore historical forts: At Boston Harbor Islands State Park Campground, visitors can discover coastal military history. "Exploring the island was awesome. We found all kinds of bunkers and a brick house," shares a camper who stayed at Lovells Island.
Paddling excursions: The Saco River Marsh offers both rentals and put-in sites for personal watercraft. "If you like to paddle, head to the Saco River Marsh. Here you can put in your own boats or rent some and paddle through beautiful marsh – just watch the tides," advises a visitor to Sun Outdoors Saco.
What campers like
Secluded wooded sites: Cape Ann Camp Site offers camping with natural spacing between sites. "Very nice folks, great sites with A LOT of space between them. Spectacular views and wild turkeys, deer, etc," notes one camper who appreciated the privacy.
Water activities for families: Salmon Falls River RV Resort provides multiple aquatic options beyond just swimming pools. "If you have young kids this place is so fun! Multiple pools, a water slide, high ropes, a jump pad, mini golf and more!!! I loved the lazy river and had so much fun!" shares an enthusiastic visitor.
Proximity to small coastal towns: Many campsites offer access to charming New England villages. "Cape Anne is beautiful. Perfect location with access to Rockport - a beautiful place to visit, shop, eat & a great little trail with great views," writes one Cape Ann Camp Site visitor.
What you should know
Ferry logistics for island camping: Boston Harbor Islands State Park requires advance planning for transportation. "Getting to the island was a bit of a hassle. We live in Boston and took all of our gear on the T to the harbor by the aquarium. We then took the ferry to Georges Island. After that we waited and got on a much smaller island to Lovells."
Limited shower facilities: Some campgrounds charge for showers or have minimal facilities. "25 cents per 5 minute hot shower is offered in the public restroom," notes one Cape Ann Camp Site visitor.
Site preparation needed: Many tent sites require some work before setup. "The sites are all dirt. There is no concrete pads," reports a camper at Cape Ann Camp Site.
Seasonal operation: Most tent camping areas near Hampton close by mid-October and don't reopen until May. "Season" listings typically show Mother's Day through Columbus Day as standard operating periods.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Lost Boys Hideout offers simple camping with some entertainment included. "Nice new tents provided at Sleepy Hollow site. Improvements to the firepit, area all mulched, even some games and water are provided!"
Transportation considerations: Several campgrounds offer shuttles to nearby attractions. "During the summer there is a shuttle that takes you to the beach which is convenient," reports a visitor to Sun Outdoors Saco Old Orchard Beach.
Meal options beyond campfire cooking: On-site dining can reduce family camping stress. "One of the nice features was the on-site restaurant which claims to be famous for their 'blueberry pancakes' and also offers Belgian waffles, pizza, hamburgers, and hot dogs. I admit the pancakes were delicious and loved eating them campfire side," shares a camper.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: Choose sites based on specific needs rather than general location. "The RV sites are not as secluded as the tent sites," notes a camper at Cape Ann Camp Site.
Hookup limitations: Many campgrounds offer partial hookups only. "We paid $60 a night for a 30 amp spot with water," reports a visitor to Cape Ann Camp Site, noting that sewer connections were not available at all sites.
Travel distance considerations: Most RV-friendly campgrounds require at least a 20-minute drive from Hampton's central area. "A little farther will have you in Ogunquit or Portland," notes a camper describing the regional travel distances from Sun Outdoors Saco Old Orchard Beach.
