Tent camping options near Hopkinton-Everett Lake range from primitive forest sites to well-equipped facilities across New Hampshire and neighboring Massachusetts. The region sits within the Merrimack River watershed at elevations between 400-1,200 feet, creating diverse camping environments with considerable temperature variations between day and night. Summer evenings can drop into the 50s even after warm days, making layered clothing essential for comfort.
What to do
Paddling explorations: Baker Rocks provides direct access to the Baker River with an onsite beach area perfect for launching small watercraft. As one camper noted, "Along another bend of the river were two chairs for taking in the scenery. I only caught a few minnows when fishing but that may have been more to do with the angler."
Mountain hiking: Cardigan Campsites serves as a gateway to Mount Cardigan trails. A camper reports, "Great spot to spend the night before a climb of Mt. Cardigan! Or after! The climb is challenging but shouldn't take too long. Great fire tower views at the top too!"
Waterfall viewing: At Tully Lake Recreation Area, visitors can explore Doane's Falls, a highlight of the 4-mile lake loop trail. According to a review: "The highlight was Doane's falls, a very quick walk from the campground area. There's no formal swimming area and you can't swim at the boat launches, but you are able to swim from your campsites if you so desire."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Baker Rocks earns praise for thoughtful site placement, with one camper stating, "The tent sites are within the wooded area around the property and felt very secluded. There was a bit of road noise overnight."
Walk-in camping experience: Many tent campers appreciate the car-free environment at Tully Lake. As one visitor explained, "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."
Island camping options: For those seeking true seclusion, specialty sites provide unique experiences. One camper shared, "I stayed on the island site, which was absolutely amazing. The views are to die for, and it's really meant for people who want to be outdoors in the woods."
Simplicity and basics: Lost Boys Hideout attracts campers looking for minimalist experiences, with a reviewer simply stating, "Simplicity at its best :)" while another noted, "Nice new tents provided at Sleepy Hollow site. Improvements to the firepit, area all mulched, even some games and water are provided!"
What you should know
Reservation requirements: The best tent camping near Hopkinton-Everett Lake requires advance planning. For Tully Lake, "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)."
Cart access only: Many campgrounds require gear transportation from parking areas. At Tully Lake, "There is no driving up to the sites, but there is a main parking area and a few sites 50-100 yards away from it. The sites near the water or on bluffs are further away, and though they provide carts the trails can make hauling them tough."
Water availability varies: Squam Lakes Association campsites require self-sufficiency: "There is a composting toilet in each camping area, but no picnic table or drinking water. Come prepared with your own water...or a filter."
Cell coverage limitations: For those needing connectivity, be prepared for gaps in service. For Tully Lake, "Cell coverage is pretty close to absent or poor in most of the area, so download any maps you might want (driving, trail, geocaching) before you arrive."
Tips for camping with families
Spacious sites for children: When camping with kids near Hopkinton-Everett Lake, look for roomier locations. One family at Tully Lake shared, "We stayed at site 1, which was HUGE and extremely private. Sites closer to the water that we saw were less private, but still very peaceful and spread out."
Animal encounters: Some campgrounds offer animal interactions. Baker Rocks provides this unique feature: "They even have animals to visit like bunnies and goats (far away from the campsites). Do bring bug spray, the mosquitoes at certain times of day were aggressive, as to be expected."
Activity options: Salmon Falls River RV Resort provides extensive family activities within an hour's drive. One parent noted, "If you have young kids this place is so fun! Multiple pools, a water slide, high ropes, a jump pad, mini golf and more!!! My niece had so much fun!"
Campground vetting: Always verify recent conditions before booking with children. One family learned this at Viewland Campground: "Viewland Campground looked very nice on its website... As I returned to the website to double check our location, we realized the pictures had been posted in 2014."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: True tent camping near Hopkinton-Everett Lake dominates the area, with few dedicated RV sites. Most campgrounds like Baker Rocks, Tully Lake, and Lost Boys Hideout focus on tent camping or small trailers.
Alternative accommodations: Consider glamping options instead of traditional RVing. Baker Rocks offers "a host of different camping options onsite including tent platforms, yurts, and cabins" with one camper mentioning they "might try some of the glamping options as well."
