Cabins near Kingston, New Hampshire offer diverse accommodations within a region characterized by glacially carved terrain and second-growth forests. Most campgrounds with cabin options sit at elevations between 200-400 feet, creating mild temperature variations between night and day. Seasonal operation typically runs May through October, with prime cabin availability between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
What to do
Swimming and water activities: Pawtuckaway State Park Campground features multiple swimming areas with both beach and lake access. "The sites on the water book up quickly but they're perfect for fishing and boating. Also, the view!" notes one visitor. The park also offers canoe and kayak rentals for exploring the lake.
Mountain biking: Bear Brook State Park Campground maintains extensive trail networks popular with cyclists. "Located in a 10000 acre forest preserve, the campground is heavily forested and very secluded from civilization," explains one camper. Another adds, "The mountain biking trails are busy even on late October afternoons; some trails allow horses."
Evening entertainment: Winding River Campground schedules various nighttime activities for guests. "Great time here camping with our kids and grandkids... There were great events like foam parties, DJ at the pool, pancake breakfast and live music to name a few," reports a recent visitor.
What campers like
Private waterfront sites: Many campers appreciate the secluded waterfront options at Pawtuckaway State Park Campground. "In 2018 we stayed in sites 110 and our friends stayed in 109 on Big Island. Those were wonderful sites, level with great views of the lake and are situated right across from the bath/shower," notes one visitor.
Wooded environments: Wakeda Campground receives praise for its natural setting. "We were overwhelmed by the beautiful massive forest. The campground was splendid with old tall, pine trees everywhere," explains one camper. Another visitor mentions, "Late back atmosphere, so easy to relax here."
Family-friendly atmosphere: Several campgrounds maintain dedicated children's activities. "They had a beach dance which was really fun. We met some really nice people. The staff were really nice, very courteous and helpful. Quiet hours were actually quiet! Which doesn't happen everywhere," reports a visitor to Calef Lake Camping Area.
What you should know
Bathroom facilities vary: Facility quality differs significantly between campgrounds and even within campgrounds. At Calef Lake Camping Area, one visitor noted, "Bathhouse was closed so we had to use Porta potties." At Bear Brook, a camper observed, "It was the final weekend of the season, so that may explain the lack of attention to cleaning and upkeep of the restrooms."
Seasonal campers dominate some properties: Several campgrounds host primarily long-term seasonal residents. One Calef Lake visitor explained, "Lots of seasonal sites," while an Old Stage Campground guest noted, "The majority of the campground were seasonal campers who had really settled in. We felt a little out of place."
Mixed reviews on camp stores: Stock levels vary widely at camp stores. At Green Gate Campground, a visitor mentioned, "The office is the store and there isn't that much to purchase but everything is reasonably priced."
Tips for camping with families
Scout playground options: Several campgrounds offer playground facilities. "There are two playgrounds, both were nice," mentions a Winding River visitor. At Bear Brook, a camper notes, "I was here with a 5-year-old the last time and she enjoyed the playgrounds both at the campground and at the Catamount Pond beach."
Consider swimming options: Tuxbury Pond RV Campground maintains swimming facilities. "Beautiful campground, clean facilities, decently priced. The pool, playground, bathrooms, and basketball court were all open and well maintained. We really enjoyed our stay!" shares one visitor. However, water quality concerns sometimes arise, as another camper noted, "The pond unusable... smelly (sewer)."
Look for rainy day alternatives: Indoor recreation options help during inclement weather. "They offer electric, water, and sewer hook up, trading post that had camping goods and snacks, WiFi hotspot, pool table, and lounging area. They also had a game room, miniature golf, coffee shop and dog park," reports a Wakeda Campground visitor.
Tips from RVers
Check road conditions: Access roads at some campgrounds present challenges. At Old Stage Campground, a visitor observed, "The road in is dirt but is mostly level." Another camper at Exeter Elms commented on "potholed roads" making navigation difficult.
Site selection matters: Some campgrounds have significant variation in site quality. "Definitely do your research on the different site numbers because some sites are much more private and scenic than others," advises a Bear Brook camper. At Tuxbury, one visitor noted, "No separation between some tent sites."
Power reliability: Electrical service quality varies. At Wakeda Campground, visitors mention "clean reliable power" with "no issues." Most cabin rentals include basic electrical service, though amperage may vary between locations.
