Pet friendly camping options extend throughout the Hinsdale, New Hampshire area, with sites available for various camping styles from tent platforms to full RV hookups. Situated at the Vermont-New Hampshire border along the Connecticut River Valley, the region features rolling hills, mixed hardwood forests, and elevations ranging from 200-400 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 50-85°F with higher humidity levels during July and August.
What to Do
Water activities on Ashuelot River: Campers can enjoy tubing, kayaking, and canoeing at Ashuelot River Campground, where a shuttle service helps with water sports logistics. "We spent another great weekend at the Ashuelot River Campground... Having good weather, we took a lazy tube ride from one side of the campground to the other... We were able to enjoy a nice, slow drift around the campground," writes Rae-Ann W.
Hiking to viewpoints: The trail system at Fort Dummer State Park Campground includes paths to panoramic vistas and a swimming hole. "There are 3 nice and short trails, 2 with a great view and the other that is quite steep down to a swimming hole," notes Lilia W. The swimming hole requires navigating a relatively steep trail but offers a refreshing reward on hot days.
Mini-golf and recreation: Family entertainment options include the mini-golf course at Kampfires (formerly Hidden Acres Camping Resort). "This is a cute campground biking distance from Brattleboro. The store and ice cream are cute, prices are very reasonable. Staff is fantastic and friendly," according to Michael K., though he notes the course "is in kind of rough shape, ask for a few extra balls because a few holes are going to eat them."
What Campers Like
Spacious wooded sites: Many campgrounds in the region offer natural privacy barriers between sites. "Sites are large and well maintained. Plenty of space between sites," writes Jessica S. about Fort Dummer State Park. The campground features well-spaced sites with natural screening that creates a more secluded camping experience.
Clean facilities: Molly Stark State Park Campground maintains exceptionally clean bathrooms and showers according to multiple reviewers. "THE BATHROOM was the best I've seen camping very clean and updated and honestly gorgeous," reports Beck P. Another camper notes, "This is such a well maintained park. Well taken care of sites, gardens all around, cute lean-tos, new bathrooms/showers."
Swimming options: The region offers various swimming opportunities beyond just pools. At Tully Lake Recreation Area, campers can swim directly from lakefront sites. "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!" shares Stacey W. The lake provides multiple coves and areas for water recreation.
What You Should Know
Carry-in camping requirements: Some campgrounds like Tully Lake don't allow vehicles at individual sites. "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," explains Megan G. Wooden wheelbarrows are provided, but campers should pack accordingly to minimize hauling gear.
Wildlife awareness: Bear activity has been reported at several campgrounds. "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!" reports Ralph L. from Kampfires. Store food properly and maintain clean campsites to reduce wildlife encounters.
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds operate from May through October, with peak season running late June through August. Some facilities like Molly Stark State Park operate only from "Memorial Day weekend to Columbus Day weekend," while others extend their season slightly longer depending on weather conditions.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds offer play areas for children. Gilson Pond Area Campground features "a small playground" and "a wide open day use area for picnicking. It would be a great place to run around and play games," according to Jean C.
Site selection for privacy: When camping with children, select sites farther from main roads. "We were at site #22 which is set back from the road loop. You want to look at that area as the campground is near the highway. In this area you can't hear the traffic," advises Tim K. about Fort Dummer State Park.
Walking distances: Consider bathroom proximity when camping with young children. At Tully Lake, "Our site was fairly far from services, long run with small kids in the middle of the night," notes Lauren A., suggesting families with small children request sites closer to facilities.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Full-service RV sites are available at several campgrounds. At Ashuelot River Campground, "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 John C., adding the sites are "big enough for our 42' 5th wheel and 2 cars."
Site leveling: Most campgrounds provide relatively level sites, but some preparation may be needed. "The site was level and easy to get into and park," mentions Rae-Ann W. about their pull-through site at Ashuelot River Campground with water and 30/50 amp service.
Size restrictions: Many campgrounds in the region have limitations on RV length. Fort Dummer State Park is described as having sites that are "generally wooded, pretty level, and fairly spread apart from one another," according to Kenneth P., though larger rigs may find access challenging on some of the campground roads.
Ranger
