Campground options around Keene, New Hampshire extend beyond the glamping experiences mentioned at Woodford and Otter River State Forest. The region sits within New Hampshire's Monadnock Region at elevations ranging from 480 to 2,290 feet, creating diverse camping microclimates. Local campgrounds experience typical New England seasonal variations with summer daytime temperatures averaging 75-85°F and nighttime lows of 55-65°F.
What to do
Kayaking on the Ashuelot River: Located at Ashuelot River Campground, campers can bring their own kayaks for river exploration. "We brought our kayaks and had no problem kayaking on the flat surface river," notes Karen O., highlighting the gentle flow suitable for beginners. Rentals are also available with shuttle service.
Hiking Mt. Olga: The 1.7-mile round-trip trail at Woodford State Park Campground leads to a fire tower with Green Mountain views. "Woodford State Park connects to the Hogback Mountain Conservation area trails, so there are actually many miles of trails you can explore without having to drive anywhere," according to one visitor. Trails range from easy to moderate difficulty.
Wildlife viewing: Early morning paddling at Ashuelot River Campground offers chances to see diverse wildlife. "Saw a bald eagle this past weekend while paddling up past the campground," reports Michael M., who encountered the raptor during a morning paddle. Dawn and dusk provide optimal viewing opportunities for deer, waterfowl, and other native species.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently praise the maintenance standards at Molly Stark State Park Campground. "THE BATHROOM was the best I've seen camping very clean and updated and honestly gorgeous," writes Beck P. Another camper notes, "The staff were friendly and helpful throughout the stay." Most campgrounds in the region provide shower facilities, though token-operated systems are common.
Family-friendly activities: Oxbow Campground offers structured recreation options. "They have 3 separate ponds—one for fishing, one for boating & the larger one is for swimming," explains Sara D. The campground provides free paddleboat usage, and regularly schedules family events during summer weekends.
Quiet atmosphere: Several campgrounds maintain peaceful environments through enforced quiet hours. "Everyone else there was super nice and quiet. Quiet hours start at 10 but it was silent after about 9 which was so amazing," reports Beck P. about Molly Stark State Park. Site selection impacts noise exposure, with outer loop sites typically offering more seclusion.
What you should know
Site spacing varies significantly: At Otter River State Forest, campers note the inconsistent site layouts. "With the exception of a handful of the sites at this campground (mainly, the ones on the pond that go exceptionally quickly), the sites are too small, too close together," warns Kris M. Premium waterfront sites book months in advance during peak season.
Limited cell coverage: Several campgrounds have poor or nonexistent cellular service. At Erving State Forest, one camper notes, "There is also zero cell service (there is an operational pay phone at the showers) which is fine... but wished we knew ahead of time." Download maps before arrival as navigation can be challenging in remote areas.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially for weekend stays. Cancellation policies typically allow full refunds with 7-14 days notice, while same-week cancellations may forfeit the first night's fee. Holiday weekends book 3-6 months in advance.
Tips for camping with families
Multiple swimming options: When camping with children, Friendly Beaver Campground offers versatile water recreation. "They have 3 outdoor pools (sports, toddler, regular) plus an indoor pool for rainy or chilly days," shares Kate C. The indoor pool maintains 78°F water temperature year-round, providing a backup option during inclement weather.
Nature education: Several campgrounds offer structured learning activities. "They also have crafts, hayrides and games, playground and other events," mentions Kate C. about Friendly Beaver. Most educational programs run weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Animal encounters: Kid-friendly animal interactions are available at some locations. "They have a few animals the kids can feed," notes Kate C. These typically include small farm animals like goats, rabbits, or chickens with designated feeding times and small feed bags available for purchase.
Tips from RVers
Access challenges: Several campgrounds have specific approach routes for larger rigs. "Don't come in off of rt 10, there's a low covered, one lane bridge that you can't tow thru," advises Camie S. about Ashuelot River Campground. "Some of the turns aren't so friendly either, we weren't going to be able to make the right into pine st so it took a bit to find an area to turn around."
Site leveling requirements: Campers with larger RVs should request specific sites. "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. about the layout at Ashuelot River Campground. Bring leveling blocks as many sites throughout the region require adjustments.
Winter storage options: For seasonal campers, storage availability varies by location. While most campgrounds close between October and May, several offer reduced-rate storage during off-season months, though advance arrangements are required.
