Campgrounds near Harrisville, New Hampshire range in elevation from approximately 950 feet to 1,500 feet above sea level. The region experiences four distinct seasons with camping primarily from May through October when average daytime temperatures range from 65°F to 85°F. Night temperatures can drop significantly, often dipping into the 40s even during summer months, requiring campers to pack additional layers regardless of the season.
What to do
Kayaking and canoeing: Pillsbury State Park Campground offers excellent flat-water paddling opportunities with rental equipment available onsite. One visitor noted that "Kayaking on May Pond and discovering little islands and coves was a highlight" while another mentioned they "saw a bald eagle this past weekend while paddling up past the campground" at Ashuelot River Campground.
Hiking trails: Several campgrounds provide direct trail access for various skill levels. "Monadnock State Park is a beautiful hiking adventure for families, beginners, and anyone looking for a fun weekend trip with amazing views," reports one camper at Gilson Pond Area Campground. For more extensive trails, Pillsbury State Park connects to the Monadnock-Sunapee Greenway, a 48-mile trail linking two prominent mountains.
Wildlife viewing: The region's diverse habitats support abundant wildlife. "We had a better view of the campsite across the road than the ones next door," noted a camper, highlighting the wooded, spaced-out sites that attract local wildlife at Greenfield State Park. Another visitor mentioned they "went camping with a group of 5 people spread out onto two sites" where they could enjoy viewing nature from relatively private campsites.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Many campgrounds offer secluded camping spots with natural buffers. "The sites are large and wooded; I had a better view of the campsite across the road than the ones next door," reported a visitor at Greenfield State Park Campground. Another camper appreciated that "the campsites are accessible by car with space to park a car or two at the campsite. Many campsites are on the lake."
Clean facilities: Consistently maintained bathrooms and shower buildings receive positive mentions. "The bathrooms are immaculate. The showers take coins but the facilities are some of the best I've seen while camping on State Park grounds," wrote a visitor to Gilson Pond Campground. Similarly, at Friendly Beaver Campground, a camper highlighted "separate and clean bathrooms with showers."
Waterfront access: Several campgrounds feature lakeside sites with easy water access. "The sites on the water are really nice," notes a camper at Pillsbury State Park. At Lake Dennison Recreation Area Campground, a visitor shared that "it is so convenient to camp right on the lake. We can drop our paddle boards in any time and explore the lake."
What you should know
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies significantly by carrier and location. One visitor at Pillsbury State Park reported that "cell reception for Verizon isn't great" while another noted "campsites have cell service," suggesting spotty coverage depending on exact location. At Otter River State Forest, a camper confirmed "Verizon cell service was pretty good."
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds in the region require advance booking, especially during peak season. "We arrived after dark and our friends were able to pick up a parking pass for us ahead of time," notes a camper at Greenfield State Park, highlighting the importance of planning ahead. Weekends from June through August typically fill several weeks in advance.
Weather preparedness: The area experiences significant temperature fluctuations and occasional heavy rainfall. "When we went (July) the water was closed due to Cyanobacteria Blooms," reported one camper, showing how conditions can change unexpectedly. Another visitor mentioned they "happened to go on a very rainy weekend, and everything became mud at the site so we left early."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Several campgrounds offer dedicated amenities for children. "They have a great wiffleball park" and "they have 3 outdoor pools (sports, toddler, regular) plus an indoor pool for rainy or chilly days" reported campers at Friendly Beaver Campground. Other family attractions include "a very nice playground" and "a wide open day use area for picnicking."
Safety considerations: Parents appreciate campgrounds with controlled environments. "The camp sites are flat, spacious, wooded, and come equipped with large fire rings/grills," noted a visitor to Gilson Pond Campground. At Lake Dennison, a camper shared that "kids can ride their bikes" safely throughout the campground.
Educational opportunities: Some sites offer nature-learning experiences. "They have a few animals the kids can feed" at Friendly Beaver Campground, while at Ashuelot River Campground, families can explore the "Ashuelot Rail Trail at the campground" for nature walks and wildlife observation. A parent highlighted that their campsite at Greenfield had a "frog pond is fun to explore."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RV campers should research specific site dimensions before booking. "Sites in the Grove and Hemlock Heights are particularly nice areas with more spacious, wooded and quiet sites. The Safari Field and more central full hook-up sites were pretty crammed," advised an RVer at Spacious Skies Seven Maples. At Ashuelot River Campground, a visitor noted "sites big enough for our 42' 5th wheel and 2 cars."
Hookup availability: Options vary significantly between campgrounds. "Sites in the woods have water and 50 amp service, no sewer. Most of the open sites have 30/50 amp service with full hook-ups," explains an RVer about Ashuelot River Campground. Another camper cautions, "don't bring a large RV- the sites are not meant for big rigs" at some state parks.
Road access considerations: Some campgrounds have access limitations. "Don't come in off of rt 10, there's a low covered, one lane bridge that you can't tow thru. Some of the turns aren't so friendly either," warns an RVer about Ashuelot River Campground. Visitors should always check campground websites for recommended approach routes.
