Tent sites and yurt accommodations near Londonderry offer camping experiences at elevations ranging from 250-400 feet with access to numerous water features. The area maintains average summer temperatures around 80°F with cooler evenings, making camping comfortable from late spring through early fall. Most campgrounds in southern New Hampshire operate seasonally from May through mid-October, with limited facilities available outside this window.
What to do
Hiking trails for all levels: Bear Brook State Park Campground offers extensive trail systems covering 10,000+ acres. "We camped here to check out the mountain biking trails in the park and we're not disappointed on either count. The biking trails were a blast," notes Eammon C. The park features well-marked paths suitable for day hikes ranging from 1-3 miles.
Water activities beyond swimming: Pawtuckaway State Park Campground provides multiple water options. "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," explains Matt R. Boat rentals typically cost $15-25 per hour depending on type.
Archery and fishing access: Bear Brook features specialized outdoor activities. "There are two archery ranges and wheelchair accessible docks for fishing," notes Jean C. The fishing docks provide access to stocked ponds where fishing licenses are required for anyone 16 and older.
Historical exploration: Learn about conservation history at Bear Brook. "For history, check out the antique snowmobile museum and the Civilian Conservation Corp(CCC) museum. The CCC built much of the infrastructure here and elsewhere in the country," shares Jean C.
What campers like
Spacious waterfront sites: Pawtuckaway State Park gets high marks for lakeside camping. "The sites on the water book up quickly but they're perfect for fishing and boating. Also, the view!" reports J L. For optimal waterfront camping, reserve sites on Big Island at least 3-4 months in advance.
Family-friendly pool complexes: Cold Springs Camp Resort provides exceptional aquatic facilities. "Very family centric, 7 pools which (include 2 hot tubs, a small 2x2 pool for kiddos, 1 adult only pool and 3 family pools)," reports Kara C. The separated pool areas accommodate different age groups and activity levels.
Well-stocked camp stores: Multiple campgrounds maintain excellent provisioning options. "The camp store carried some great souvenirs, snacks, ice cream and even had a coffee machine for those traveling light and in need of a hot cup of coffee," mentions Ellen C. regarding Bear Brook. Prices typically run 10-20% higher than local grocery stores.
Private, wooded campsites: Yurt camping near Londonderry, New Hampshire offers natural settings with minimal clearing. "Located in a 10000 acre forest preserve, the campground is heavily forested and very secluded from civilization. We stayed on site 22, which was spacious and private from the other sites on either side," notes Ellen C. about her Bear Brook experience.
What you should know
Site privacy varies significantly: Campground layouts differ widely in the Londonderry area. "The park is great because there is probably a site for everyone. There are some great sites here with lots of privacy," explains one camper. However, at Friendly Beaver Campground, "The campsites have VERY little to no privacy, we had to hang up tarps in between us and our neighbor," reports Brandon C.
Seasonal operation impacts: Most facilities close after mid-October. "During the peak season, I'm sure it's a different story given its proximity to Concord and Manchester and the variety of activities available," mentions Jean C. about Bear Brook. Water systems are typically shut down after Columbus Day weekend.
Weekend crowds: Expect more activity Friday through Sunday. "It does have a pool and activities for kids but staff was not friendly. Would not go there again," notes Rhonda W. about Tuxbury Pond. Weekday camping typically means fewer organized activities but more space and quiet.
Bathroom maintenance: Facility cleanliness receives mixed reviews. "The bathhouses are probably the best maintained of any campground I've stayed at. They're cleaned multiple time a day," notes Daniel J. at Autumn Hills. However, at Tuxbury Pond RV Campground, "The bathrooms were a little dirty, but not awful," according to Ana.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity considerations: When booking sites with children, check proximity to play areas. "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. 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," advises Jean C. about Bear Brook.
Activity scheduling: Many campgrounds run organized programs. At Wakeda Campground, "Late back atmosphere, so easy to relax here," mentions Kelly F. Most activities run between 10am-4pm with evening events starting around 7pm.
Swimming options for different ages: Look for campgrounds with varied water features. "The swimming area at the pond looked very inviting for summer time campers," notes Ellen C. about Bear Brook. For yurt camping near Londonderry, swimming access varies significantly between pond/lake access and constructed pools.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds provide animal encounters. "Walking around we saw wild turkeys, bunnies, and a hummingbird," reports Pawsfuradventure T. at Wakeda. Some locations like Friendly Beaver include small petting zoos with feeding opportunities.
Tips from RVers
Hookup placements: Site layout impacts utility connections. At Hidden Valley RV and Golf Park, "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," notes Carry M.
Extended-stay considerations: Seasonal camping dominates some parks. "All everyone does here is ride around in Golf carts with cases of beer and get drunk. Not my scene! It's a underfunded trailer park," mentions Steve E. about Friendly Beaver, indicating the different atmosphere at predominantly seasonal locations.
GPS navigation issues: Some campgrounds have address problems. At Calef Lake Camping Area, "If you're using Apple Maps, it will likely take you to a turn that is not the campground entrance," warns Sara D. Call ahead for specific directions when GPS coordinates seem questionable.
RV site selection: Size variations exist between and within campgrounds. "We were in site 38 and found that the little loop to my campsite was tight to exit (I was towing a 14' teardrop, not a big trailer) and I had to be careful to swing wide at the corner," reports Jean C. about Bear Brook. Call specifically about clearance when bringing larger rigs.
