Camping spots near Hinsdale, New Hampshire benefit from the region's elevation range of 400-700 feet, creating diverse camping experiences in rolling woodlands and along river valleys. Seasonal variations impact campground access and amenities, with most facilities operating from May through October. The Ashuelot River provides a natural centerpoint for many camping activities in the immediate area.
What to do
Paddle the Ashuelot River: The river running through the region offers excellent kayaking and canoeing opportunities. At Ashuelot River Campground, campers can take advantage of on-site kayak and canoe rentals with shuttle service. One visitor reported, "Awesome campground with two of the greatest host/owners Chuck and Laura. Beautiful river to float down or paddle up. Saw a bald eagle this past weekend while paddling up past the campground."
Hike to summit views: Mount Olga in Molly Stark State Park Campground offers a 1.7-mile round trip hike with rewarding panoramas. A camper noted, "The hike up Mt. Olga is 1.7 miles (round trip). There's a fire tower at the top, which provides awesome views of the Green Mountains. It's also fun to explore the relics of the old Hogback Ski Resort."
Visit swimming spots: Natural swimming areas provide relief during summer months. Fort Dummer State Park features a swimming hole accessible via trail. According to one visitor, "There are 3 nice and short trails, 2 with a great view and the other that is quite steep down to a swimming hole."
Explore rail trails: Several campgrounds connect to converted rail corridors ideal for walking and biking. "You can pick up the Ashuelot Rail Trail at the campground. They have canoes and kayaks on site, plus a shuttle service for water sports or biking," notes one Ashuelot River Campground review.
What campers like
Private, spacious sites: Campgrounds in the region offer good separation between campsites. At Fort Dummer State Park Campground, "Sites are large and well maintained. Plenty of space between sites." Similarly, Maple Ridge Farm received praise: "Very lush campground, plenty of space and privacy between sites."
Variety of site settings: Camping options range from riverside to wooded to open field locations. One camper at Ashuelot River Campground described, "Sites along the river, pull thrus in the field, shaded along the edge of the field, completely wooded area towards the end of the campground."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and showers are consistently mentioned in reviews. A camper at Tully Lake Recreation Area shared, "Everything is clean and well maintained, and the staff was helpful and friendly. The ranger station has all the necessary supplies and you can even charge your phone."
Recreational amenities: Beyond natural features, many campgrounds offer additional activities. At Kampfires (formerly Hidden Acres), a reviewer mentioned, "They have an ice cream shop attached to their office/store, mini golf just outside of it too. There is an amphitheater for concerts and shows throughout the summer."
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: Most campgrounds operate from May through October, with varying opening and closing dates. Molly Stark State Park Campground operates "Memorial Day weekend to Columbus Day weekend," while others extend slightly longer.
Wildlife encounters: Bears and other wildlife may visit campsites. One camper at Kampfires (formerly Hidden Acres) reported, "SURPRISE- when I went to hook up the water, a pile of fresh bear scat was right there! They did say there was wildlife in the area!"
Road noise: Some campgrounds experience highway sounds due to proximity to major routes. A Fort Dummer visitor noted, "Only downfall is since it's so close to the highway, you can hear traffic all night."
Carry-in requirements: Several campgrounds don't allow vehicles at sites. At Tully Lake, "This is a 'Carry In' campground. You park at the entrance, register with Ranger. Large wooden wheelbarrows are provided to bring your gear to your camp site."
Reservation importance: Popular sites fill quickly, especially on weekends. "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," advised a Tully Lake camper.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for younger campers. Gilson Pond Area Campground offers "a large playground for kids <12 and a wide open day use area for picnicking. It would be a great place to run around and play games."
Car-free camping benefits: Sites without vehicle access can provide peace of mind. A Tully Lake visitor with children noted, "No cars at all at the campsites, which was great for peace of mind as our toddler roamed around. It also made for a super quiet stay."
Swimming options: Water features offer natural entertainment for children. A Tully Lake camper shared, "This was the trifecta for us, where we could fish, kayak, and swim! We really enjoyed our stay and look forward to booking again soon!"
Buggy conditions: Insect protection is essential, especially in early summer. "Buggy in June so bring your repellent," advises a Tully Lake visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Many campgrounds have limited capacity for larger rigs. At Maple Ridge Farm, sites are marked as not big-rig friendly, while Ashuelot River Campground can accommodate various RV sizes: "Sites big enough for our 42' 5th wheel and 2 cars."
Hookup availability: Water, electric, and sewer connections vary significantly between campgrounds. Ashuelot River Campground offers different service levels: "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."
Low bridge warnings: Route planning requires attention to covered bridges and height restrictions. One Ashuelot River camper warned, "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."
Leveling requirements: Site terrain varies across campgrounds. When staying at Kampfires, one RVer noted, "The site was somewhat level with a gravel base. FHU at each site made hook up easy."
