Water-based activities predominate at the best places to camp near Litchfield, New Hampshire, with most major campgrounds situated on ponds or small lakes. The region sits at elevations between 200-400 feet above sea level, creating varied terrain for both waterfront and wooded sites. Campgrounds within 30 miles of Litchfield typically have sand beaches, boat launches, and fishing access points at their water bodies.
What to do
Kayaking and canoeing: Campers can rent boats at Pawtuckaway State Park Campground, where the lake formation with multiple islands creates excellent paddling routes. A camper noted, "This a a fantastic little camp for if you want to go canoeing or kayaking or boating of any kind! It's set up of three islands and a large majority of the campsites are right on the water."
Golfing: Hidden Valley RV and Golf Park offers a full 9 or 18-hole course with rentals and pro shop on-site. The 1300-acre property combines camping with golf, plus two swimming beaches. A reviewer mentioned, "The main attraction of this campground is the golf course of 9 or 18 holes. There is a pro shop, golf cart rentals, etc."
Historical tours: Use Spacious Skies Minute Man as a base for exploring Revolutionary War sites. The campground is located within 30 minutes of major historical landmarks. A reviewer shared, "Easy to get into Boston by train. Level sites, quiet, and very clean restrooms make this a perfect spot for touring historic Boston, Concord, & Lexington."
What campers like
Waterfront campsites: Premium sites at Pawtuckaway State Park Campground offer direct lake access, but they fill quickly. One camper advised, "The sites on the water book up quickly but they're perfect for fishing and boating. Also, the view!"
Multiple swimming options: Friendly Beaver Campground offers unusual aquatic variety with three outdoor pools plus an indoor pool for inclement weather. A camper noted, "They have 3 outdoor pools(sports,toddler,regular) plus an indoor pool for rainy or chilly days."
Clean facilities: Most campgrounds maintain well-kept bathhouses, but the cleanliness at Autumn Hills stands out according to campers. One reviewer stated, "The bathhouses are probably the best maintained of any campground I've stayed at. They're cleaned multiple time a day."
Wooded privacy: Harold Parker State Forest offers some of the most secluded sites in the region. A camper highlighted, "Nice large campsites. The sites' privacy is very diverse. You could be tucked away from everyone or closer together depending on the site you choose but they are all pretty decent in size."
What you should know
Dog restrictions: Seasonal dog prohibitions exist at some parks. At Pawtuckaway, a reviewer warned, "Tried to plan ahead this year and get a prime site to learn they don't allow dogs anywhere in the campground during summer months."
Campground personalities: Each location has a distinct atmosphere. At Greenfield State Park Campground, a reviewer noted, "It's a nice clean campground but it's definitely filled with a lot of younger people partying and being loud!"
Alcohol policies: Massachusetts state parks prohibit alcohol consumption. A camper at Harold Parker State Forest mentioned, "Only complaint about Massachusetts state parks is no alcohol even while sitting in your site."
Seasonal campers: Many private campgrounds have high percentages of seasonal occupants. At Friendly Beaver, one reviewer observed, "Mostly seasonal sites. Lots of golf carts and drunks (if that's your thing, cool)."
Tips for camping with families
Animal attractions: Children enjoy the small petting zoos at some campgrounds. A reviewer at Friendly Beaver mentioned, "They have a few animals the kids can feed. They also have crafts, hayrides and games, playground and other events."
Playground options: Multiple play areas exist at Bear Brook State Park Campground for different age groups. A camper noted, "Site 91 is near the entrance, but large and set back from the camp road, so it offers some extra seclusion. It's across the street from the playground."
Site selection for noise: Family groups should consider location relative to common areas. A reviewer at Autumn Hills warned, "I'd avoid site 93 because it is so close to the playground and the fire ring placement makes it seem like families enjoying the playground will be tempted to walk through your site."
Tips from RVers
Hookup placement: RVers should verify utility locations when booking. At Hidden Valley, a camper cautioned, "The water and electric were between our site and the next on one side and sewer between our site and the one on the other side. This made it difficult to place our trailer on the slanted site and reach all services."
Site grading: Many campgrounds have sloped terrain requiring leveling equipment. At Bear Brook, a reviewer mentioned, "I noticed the bottom of one of the dishwashing sinks was coated with something that resembled dried coffee grounds."
Extension cord needs: Some sites require additional electrical cabling. A camper at Calef Lake Camping Area noted, "Campsite was on a little creek. Friendly, helpful staff. Quiet nights, easy check-in."
