The Hillsborough region of New Hampshire sits at the intersection of several watersheds, with numerous ponds and small lakes scattered throughout the area at elevations between 700-900 feet. Camping options typically remain open from May through October, with late-season availability dependent on weather patterns and frost conditions. Many campgrounds in the area enforce quiet hours starting at 10 or 11 pm, with stricter enforcement on weekends.
What to do
Hiking access: Pillsbury State Park Campground connects to the 51-mile Monadnock-Sunapee Greenway trail system. "The park also has great little ponds for exploring by kayak or canoe. Don't expect major accommodations at the park, there are spots for campers but smaller ones, and there are a few outhouses but no bathhouse," explains one camper at Pillsbury State Park Campground.
Paddling options: Boat rentals available at several campgrounds for those without their own equipment. A visitor at Spacious Skies French Pond notes: "I had a view of the beautiful pond, which is really a lake, and wished I had more time to rent a kayak."
Nearby attractions: Within 15-30 minutes of most campgrounds. "Close by to Miller state park (NH's oldest state park), Garwin falls (beautiful little water falls you can swim in)," recommends a camper who visited Greenfield State Park.
Wildlife viewing: Early morning and evening hours provide best opportunities for spotting local wildlife. "The diversity of habitats makes it home to a great variety of wildlife, including moose and loons," notes a visitor about the Pillsbury area.
What campers like
Wooded privacy: Many sites offer natural screening between campsites. "Very large campground with lots of woods to block you from other campers. Dog friendly," writes a visitor to Greenfield State Park Campground.
Multiple water features: From swimming pools to natural ponds. "There's a shower house near the entrance to the campground. Stores for extra food or forgotten materials can be picked up in town a 10-15 minute drive away," shares a camper at Greenfield State Park Campground.
Clean facilities: Consistently mentioned across most campgrounds. A camper at Oxbow Campground reports: "Tom takes great care to keep the grounds and the bathrooms/showers very clean. It is obvious he takes pride in ownership."
Multiple pool options: Some campgrounds offer extensive aquatic facilities. A visitor to Cold Springs Camp Resort describes: "This place has just about everything a campground can offer. Organized bingo, hayrides, large pools, an adult only pool, hot tubs, a pond, etc."
What you should know
Site characteristics vary widely: From open fields to wooded areas. "The campsites are close but if you are lucky enough to get one out on the island its private but no bathrooms out there," explains a camper at Pillsbury State Park.
Limited cell service: Coverage depends on carrier and specific location. "Cell reception for Verizon isn't great. There's boat rentals, fishing, remote sites. Swimming in the stream is safe but the lake is loaded with leeches!" warns a visitor to Pillsbury State Park.
Seasonal occupancy: Many campgrounds have long-term seasonal residents. A visitor to Autumn Hills Campground shares: "During the week it's pretty quiet. They do plan and host activities and events for the weekends."
Access challenges: Some sites require extra preparation. "A jewel! Quiet, beautiful small lake/pond great for paddling," notes a camper at Pillsbury State Park Campground, but others mention steep terrain at certain sites.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Most family-oriented campgrounds schedule weekend events. At Spacious Skies Seven Maples, a visitor notes: "Great family oriented campground with fishing pond and great fishing spots nearby. Lots of great kids events around the holidays, basketball court, swimming, etc."
Playground access: Important feature for younger children. "They have a big slide and what looks like a splash pad. We enjoyed the arcade while waiting for our laundry to finish," shares a camper who stayed at Spacious Skies Seven Maples.
Beach selection: Check water quality reports before swimming. "We went camping with a group of 5 people spread out onto two sites. We arrived after dark and our friends were able to pick up a parking pass for us ahead of time," explains a Greenfield State Park visitor.
Camping with pets: Most campgrounds allow dogs with restrictions. "We stayed in the cabin with a kitchenette and bathroom. The shower worked well and it was nice not to have to walk to the restrooms, though they were close by," reports a visitor to Spacious Skies Seven Maples.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Bring leveling blocks for most campgrounds. A camper at French Pond notes: "Where we parked our trailer was some gravel sand and dirt. We were at the end of a lane, backing in was fine we are small, 21 feet including tongue, we fit fine."
Hookup locations: Position can vary significantly between sites. "Tom was a gem of a guy! He was very helpful, accommodating, and kind. Because we are fully self-contained and need no hook-ups, he gave us a small discount on our night," shares an RVer who stayed at Oxbow Campground.
Road conditions: Interior roads can be challenging at some campgrounds. "Very nicely landscaped although the roads are very narrow. Made it hard to back in our spot," notes a visitor to Cold Springs Camp Resort.
Arrival timing: Midweek check-ins typically easier than weekends. "Our stay was during the week so it wasn't very crowded. Our son liked the playground and it was unfortunately too cold for the pool but it looked fun!" reports a family who stayed at Spacious Skies Seven Maples.
