Many campgrounds near Hanover, New Hampshire allow pets, with some offering specialized dog recreation areas and restrictions that vary seasonally. The Upper Connecticut River Valley terrain creates diverse camping environments ranging from riverside sites to wooded mountain settings. Winter closures affect most campgrounds in the region, with typical seasons running from May through mid-October.
What to do
Hiking diverse trail networks: At Mount Ascutney State Park Campground, campers can access multiple summit approaches with varying difficulty levels. "There are four different trails up the mountain of varying levels of difficulty. You can also drive right to the top and hike around on the summit trails, which are really pretty and pop out onto ledges with gorgeous vistas," notes reviewer Tara S.
Swimming in natural settings: Silver Lake State Park offers swimming options for families with dogs. "There is a beach with wading depth, sand for playing, buoys to mark the shallow area, a large dock to jump from with a ladder for climbing out," explains Hannah H. The park also features fishing opportunities from multiple access points.
Mountain biking on dedicated trails: Many campgrounds maintain bike-friendly paths with options for various skill levels. "The state park maintains its own mountain biking trail loop, which is accessible directly from the campground. It is a 3 mile beginner friendly loop, with some nice rollers and moderate terrain," mentions Rita M. about her stay at Mount Ascutney.
What campers like
Private, wooded campsites: Rest N Nest Campground receives consistent praise for site spacing. "Primitive, woodsy full hookups! Awesome owners with a small campground! Swimming pond and pool. Small Playground," writes Jen C., highlighting the blend of natural setting with necessary amenities.
Clean facilities: Coolidge State Park Campground maintains high standards for bathroom cleanliness. "The bathrooms were clean and the coin-operated showers were great. Each site was neatly maintained," reports Jonathan L. Shower costs typically run around $1 for 10 minutes at most state parks in the region.
Scenic viewpoints: Sites offering mountain vistas are highly sought after. "This place gets my vote for best campground in Vermont. Especially true if you're lucky enough to get one of the few sites on the outside of A loop that has a Lean-to with a view," recommends Cliff M. about Coolidge State Park, noting these premium sites require advance booking.
What you should know
Road noise impacts: Interstate proximity affects several campgrounds near Hanover. At Quechee State Park Campground, "Road noise isn't super loud, but it's constant. Might be the nicest bathrooms I've seen in decades of camping," notes reviewer B. Sites furthest from highways generally offer quieter experiences.
Seasonal crowds: Fall foliage weekends create significant visitor increases. "It really is beautiful, but that beauty can be hard to experience on a Saturday afternoon in the fall," shares Tara S. about Quechee Gorge. Many campers recommend weekday visits during peak seasons.
Uneven terrain: Some tent sites require careful setup. "Tent sites were hilly/uneven and extremely far from the toilets and bathhouse," notes Cheryl K. about her experience at Storrs Pond Recreation Area, suggesting campers bring leveling equipment and consider proximity to facilities when booking.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Moose Hillock Camping Resort offers extensive water activities beyond standard swimming. "The pool really is as awesome as it looks. The playground is amazing," shares Jessica W. The resort features a pirate ship with water slides, making it particularly popular with younger children.
Ranger-led children's programs: Several state parks offer organized activities. "Rangers also run fun programs for children—my children churned butter and made popcorn over the campfire one night, and made tie dyed T-shirts the next (for no fee)," explains Jen B. about her family's experience at Quechee State Park.
Variable site spacing: Family groups should research specific site configurations. "Some are private, while others are a little crowded together," notes Tara S. about Quechee State Park. Many reviewers recommend sites in the back sections of campgrounds for increased privacy with children.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Jacobs Brook Campground offers electric hookups but with varying site sizes. "Sites vary in size. The ones on the 50s have a sloped approach. The lower numbers offer pull-through access," advises Jean C., suggesting RVers call ahead for specific site assignments.
Leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven sites at some campgrounds. "Some of the sites were not really level," notes Sara D. about her stay at Moose Hillock, recommending RVers bring adequate leveling equipment, especially for larger rigs.
Off-season considerations: Many pet friendly campgrounds near Hanover have limited shoulder season availability. "We stayed one night as we were tired and hungry. Two hours away from home... They were very accommodating. Nice pull through site," shares Don L. about Quechee-Pine Valley KOA, which maintains some of the region's longest operating seasons.
