Tent camping near Harrisville, New Hampshire offers opportunities in forested New England terrain with elevations ranging from 800 to 2,200 feet. The camping season typically runs from May through October, with July and August temperatures averaging 70-85°F during the day and 50-65°F at night. Most tent sites in the region require campers to bring their own water filtration systems or carry in drinking water.
What to do
Paddle on Tully Lake: Explore the numerous islands and sheltered coves at Tully Lake Recreation Area in Royalston, Massachusetts, about 25 miles southwest of Harrisville. "We take our canoe and spend the whole day at the lake. You can find lots of private areas to swim, pick blueberries and relax," shares Ben P.
Hike waterfall trails: Visit Doane's Falls near Tully Lake, which features five cascading waterfalls along an ascending path through woods. "If you'd like to hike with children, there is an easy hike close to the entrance, along Doane's Falls. The views are beautiful, and it's not unusual to spot professional nature photographers at various points along the waterfalls," notes Nancy R.
Explore Quabbin Reservoir views: From Federated Womens Club State Forest in Petersham, Massachusetts, hike past campsite 15 through Gate 36 toward Soapstone Hill for sunset views over Quabbin Reservoir. "If you continue past site 15, you'll head through Gate 36 out toward Soapstone Hill which offers a great view of Quabbin Reservoir and sunsets," explains Jean C.
What campers like
Privacy from walk-in sites: Campers appreciate the quieter experience at walk-in sites where vehicles aren't allowed. At Lost Boys Hideout near Harrisville, recent improvements enhance the camping experience. "Nice new tents provided at Sleepy Hollow site. Improvements to the firepit, area all mulched, even some games and water are provided!" reports Steve K.
Rustic simplicity: Many tent sites in the region offer basic amenities that appeal to traditional campers. "The sites are very basic, with only a picnic table and fire ring," notes a Tully Lake visitor, while another camper values the "Simplicity at its best" atmosphere at Lost Boys Hideout.
Water activities: The combination of swimming, paddling and fishing at Maple Ridge Farm in nearby Vermont provides multiple recreation options. "Very lush campground, plenty of space and privacy between sites. They'll drive you in an ATV up to some of the sites that are further away from the parking lot," explains Les R.
What you should know
Carrying gear requirements: Most campgrounds in the region require some effort to transport gear from parking areas. "Keeping gear to a minimum is a good idea. There is easy access to a man made lake which is quite beautiful, and you can paddle on it and explore its shoreline," advises Miguel B. about Tully Lake.
Cell service limitations: Limited connectivity is common throughout the region. At Federated Womens Club State Forest, "Cell phone coverage is faint to nonexistent on Verizon. You may want to download offline maps before you head out here."
Reservation timing: Popular sites book quickly, especially during peak season. "The sites fill up weeks out (and can completely fill the day registration opens, which is date-dependent each year...Booking for Memorial Day meant I booked in April), so you have to be on your game," cautions Kris M.
Tips for camping with families
Consider site distance from facilities: When tent camping with children near Harrisville, assess walking distances. "Our site was fairly far from services, long run with small kids in the middle of the night. Not our favorite place, but to be fair mostly based on our site and neighboring campers," notes Lauren A. about her Tully Lake experience.
Check for family amenities: Some campgrounds offer family-specific activities and accommodations. "Volleyball and horseshoes are near the entrance. You may purchase firewood. The bathrooms offer flush toilets and a single shower on each site, plus a dishwashing sink outside," mentions Jean C. about Tully Lake.
Look for cart assistance: Many walk-in sites provide transport help for gear. At Zoar Outdoor in Massachusetts, staff support enhances the family camping experience. "Staff was awesome, went out of their way to take care of our group from camping to rafting. Highly recommend the site. Amenities are well maintained," reports Dominick V.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most campgrounds near Harrisville focus primarily on tent camping with few RV accommodations. At Barton Cove Campground in Gill, Massachusetts, the logistics of site access can be challenging. "Only real annoyance was dealing with set up and take down of the campsite- you check in at the office, grab a key to unlock the gate, drive to the campground, unlock gate, drive through gate, lock gate, unload your stuff, drive to gate, unlock gate, drive through gate, lock gate, return key, drive back to campground, walk to your site."
Check fire restrictions: Campfire policies vary at tent sites around Harrisville. At Zoar Outdoor, "They don't allow fires at the campsites though which is annoying and their quiet hours are quite oppressive," notes Seth K.
Consider alternatives to traditional campsites: Some locations offer cabin or glamping options for those wanting a tent-like experience with more amenities. "This was my very first camping trip and I loved it! I even like that it's rustic and you can't drive your vehicle to the site. They have carts to haul your stuff. Everything is clean and well maintained," shares Stacey W. about Tully Lake.
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