The area around Keene, New Hampshire sits within the Monadnock Region, characterized by rolling hills and the prominent 3,165-foot Mount Monadnock. The camping season in this region typically runs from May through mid-October, with most sites closing before the harsh New England winter. Several campgrounds near Keene offer waterfront locations on ponds and rivers, providing natural swimming and paddling opportunities.
What to do
Hiking trails: Mount Monadnock provides excellent hiking opportunities near Keene. "The staff was friendly and accommodating, and the tent and lean-to sites were all kept very clean. We hiked the west river trail (which leads right out of the campground) to Hamilton falls which is a gravel closed road that follows the west river upstream 2 miles to Hamilton falls trail," reports Chris D. about Jamaica State Park Campground.
Swimming quarries: The region offers unique swimming spots beyond standard campground pools. One camper at Kampfires (formerly Hidden Acres) noted: "Great location near a fantastic quarry, country store, and Manchester shopping. The camp grounds were family friendly and quiet."
Blueberry picking: Some campgrounds offer on-site fruit picking during summer months. "It had well-maintained grounds and some cute activities for the younger kids. Even blueberry picking on site," shared Emily H. about her stay at Tree Farm Campground.
Kayaking and canoeing: Many sites provide boat access to ponds and rivers. At Chapman Acres, "A hidden path nearby brings you to a canopy covered swing that overlooks the pond. Another path leads you to the canoe access," according to Kathleen W.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Campers appreciate the spacious, well-separated sites available at many campgrounds. "The campsites were beautiful with the river behind us. Not to many people there so we're got the best spot," writes Meike W. about Gilson Pond Area Campground at Monadnock State Park.
Fall foliage viewing: The Keene area becomes especially popular during autumn. "I love the area around Jamaica State Park and have stayed a few times! There is plenty of trails in the area and you can go to the waterfall/rock slides and take a dip in the pools," says Jackie G., highlighting activities that would be particularly stunning during foliage season.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms receive frequent mention in reviews. "The bathrooms are immaculate. The showers take coins but the facilities are some of the best I've seen while camping on State Park grounds," notes Jess G. about Monadnock State Park's facilities.
Convenient locations: Many campgrounds offer proximity to attractions. One visitor to Sandy Beach Campground appreciated that "Sandy beach by the water has plenty of room to relax out in the sun as well as launch areas to set out in a paddle boat, canoe or row boat, all available on site."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly throughout the region. As Brittany B. mentions about Jamaica State Park: "small town general store, no cell service and a gorgeous back drop is a perfect spot to just unwind from the real world."
Seasonal variations: Most campgrounds close by mid-October. "Our biggest issue though was the over-abundance of gypsy moth worms. Crawling over everything and the concern of bringing them home with us to infest our trees. Not the campground's fault, but of concern never the less," reports Tammy about Sandy Beach Campground, highlighting how seasonal factors can impact camping experiences.
Winter camping options: Unlike most seasonal sites, Field and Stream RV Park offers year-round camping with higher winter rates. "They offer all year round camping. Great site right next to the water. Sites are clean and well equipped. Coin laundry with nice machine," notes Jeanine S.
Terrain challenges: The region's topography creates some access issues. "Tree placement and a pretty sharp 110+ degree turn makes it challenging to maneuver. I don't think campground staff is familiar with their own campground and that larger rigs are likely to have issue in this loop," warns Katie E. about Dorset RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Several campgrounds offer dedicated children's areas. "Nice little weekend getaway. Clean bathrooms, roomy tent sites, nice staff. Fun playground and nature area for kids. Very family friendly place with beautiful hikes to Hamilton falls," shares Fransheska A. about Jamaica State Park.
Safety around water features: Parents should exercise caution at natural water features. "People have lost their lives at these falls so be extra cautious with children around the falls," advises Chris D. regarding Hamilton Falls near Jamaica State Park.
Animal encounters: Some campgrounds feature farm animals children can enjoy. At Kampfires, "They even had rabbits and chickens for the kids to enjoy. Spotless grounds and helpful staff," according to Rachelle S.
Evening quiet: Most campgrounds enforce quiet hours, though weekend patterns may differ. At Woodmore Family Campground, "Very quiet during the weekdays, picks up over weekends but not to overbearing," notes Robert M. about the atmosphere at nearby Sandy Beach.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for big rigs: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger RVs despite advertising as big-rig friendly. "Initially offered site 1 but wanted to be out of the way. After being on site, my 35' rig wouldn't have fit at all, may have been without site and likely w/o refund," shares Katie E. about site selection challenges.
Winter preparation: For those using Field and Stream RV Park's year-round camping, prepare for New England winter conditions with proper insulation, heated hoses, and skirting for extended cold-weather stays.
Weekend scheduling: Many campgrounds near Keene experience significant weekend population changes. "Quiet during the weekdays, picks up over weekends when the gang pulls in on Friday Night. Very loud until after 10:00 on Friday/Saturday," reports John L. about Woodmore Family Campground.
Package deliveries: Long-term campers should clarify mail procedures. "If you have packages sent to the campground, be ready for some frustration," warns one reviewer, detailing complicated delivery arrangements at one area campground.
