Cabin camping near Hollis, New Hampshire offers year-round access to the region's mixed deciduous and pine forests. Located in southern New Hampshire at 400-500 feet elevation, the area experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and winter temperatures typically between 15-35°F. Fall foliage season from mid-September through October brings significant visitor traffic to area campgrounds.
What to do
Hiking nearby trails: Pearl Hill State Park Campground features moderate hiking options with some challenging terrain. "There are some wonderful sites in this campground, but not all of them have privacy. I loved that there were trails to hike from right in the park; you could do a short one, or a slightly longer loop (2.5 hours depending on your pace) with some inclines and boulders to scramble up and over," explains one visitor.
Swimming options: Cold Springs Camp Resort provides multiple swimming areas including four outdoor pools and a small beach. "So many amenities, you just couldn't get bored if you tried to. There's a little beach area, too. The price per night is a little more than we what we usually pay but we are okay with that considering the environment."
Fishing at various ponds: Most cabin locations offer fishing access, especially at Pawtuckaway State Park where waterfront sites provide direct lake access. "The sites on the water book up quickly but they're perfect for fishing and boating. Also, the view!" Water access varies significantly by season, with some areas closed periodically for water quality issues.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Willard Brook State Forest Campground offers secluded sites under towering pines. "Sites are largely level, around a small, bisected loop with towering pines. Most of the sites are best suited to tents and small trailers (think teardrops and pop-ups), but a couple of sites can accommodate slightly larger units. They are level and there's not a lot of brush between sites, so not much privacy either."
Family activities: Seven Maples features organized events and recreational amenities. "Great campground for kids newer pool, with slides. Nice sites. Very friendly staff, owners are true campers at heart. Very clean restrooms no matter what time of day they were always clean and look newer. Pool area was very nice, kids spent hours there."
Seasonal campground rhythms: Most cabin facilities maintain peak season from May through October, with different amenities available depending on season. "The campground is clean nice with lots of trails for hiking and biking. The bathrooms were clean and water was easy close to the camp ground. If you drive they have a great breakfast place about two miles from the camp ground."
What you should know
Bathroom facilities: Standards vary widely between state parks and private campgrounds. "Bathhouses offer coin-operated showers; I noticed a price difference between the two of them, so went with the less expensive option! It was the final weekend of the season, so that may explain the lack of attention to cleaning and upkeep of the restrooms."
Booking requirements: Advance reservations essential for cabins, particularly waterfront locations. "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. Our stay was during the week so it wasn't very crowded."
Wildlife interactions: Bear Brook State Park Campground campsites frequently attract local wildlife including raccoons and occasionally black bears. Proper food storage is essential, especially in the more remote cabin areas.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access considerations: Friendly Beaver Campground offers multiple pool options for different age groups. "We've been back her a few times because my girls love it. They have 3 outdoor pools (sports, toddler, regular) plus an indoor pool for rainy or chilly days. They also have crafts, hayrides and games, playground and other events."
Cabin size limitations: Most basic cabins accommodate 4-6 people maximum, with restrictions on additional tents or vehicles at the site. Many prohibit pets during peak season.
Playground accessibility: Several campgrounds feature playground areas close to cabins for easier supervision. "We liked being next to the large field and basketball court where we watched the kids play without having to worry where they disappeared to."
Tips from RVers
Site access challenges: Campground roads often present challenges for larger vehicles. "You can get in here with a smaller RV, but the campground isn't built for larger units with the turns and curves. They've only designated 3 sites for 35' rigs; everything else is 15-20'."
Utility connections: Spacious Skies Minute Man campground provides reliable hookups for cabin campers needing electricity. "Site seems level for the most part, made of gravel. Heated pool, laundry, Wi-Fi that works, cable, 50 amp FHU. Roads are a little interesting to navigate, and definitely aren't the straight lines on their map!"
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies significantly across cabin camping locations within 30 miles of Hollis. "I had reliable 1 bar AT&T while at the campsite, but more as I got closer to the bathhouse. The campground also wasn't too far from the grocery store and civilization."
