Best Campgrounds near Lyme, NH
Lyme, New Hampshire and the surrounding Connecticut River Valley provide a range of campground options spanning both New Hampshire and Vermont. Established campgrounds like Jacobs Brook Campground in Orford and Pastures Campground along the Connecticut River offer traditional tent and RV camping experiences. Several properties in the region, including Quechee State Park Campground and Moose Hillock Camping Resort, also accommodate cabin camping and glamping setups. The area features both riverside locations and forested settings, with options ranging from backcountry Appalachian Trail shelters to full-service campgrounds with electric hookups and modern facilities.
Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally from May through October, with limited year-round options. Seasonal considerations affect water availability at backcountry sites, particularly during drought conditions. The backcountry shelters along the Appalachian Trail, such as Trapper John and Velvet Rocks, require hiking in and have limited tent spaces with no guaranteed water sources. Developed campgrounds generally provide amenities including showers, electricity, and sanitary facilities. Campers should check reservation requirements, as most established sites require advance booking, especially for summer weekends and holiday periods. As one hiker noted about backcountry shelter accommodations, "The tent camping here was ok, with some slightly slanted spots around the main shelter area."
Riverside camping represents a particularly popular option in the region. Several campgrounds offer direct access to the Connecticut River or smaller brooks, providing opportunities for swimming, fishing, and water play. A visitor to Pine Haven mentioned, "We had a nice tent site by the brook. The sites near the river are really nice, a bit of a steep slope down to the river." Campers consistently rate waterfront sites highly, though these prime locations tend to fill quickly during peak season. For those seeking more seclusion, backcountry camping along the Appalachian Trail offers a quieter experience but requires carrying in supplies and being self-sufficient. The campgrounds closer to Hanover and White River Junction provide more amenities but may experience more traffic noise and activity. Clean facilities are frequently highlighted in reviews, with several campgrounds receiving praise for well-maintained bathrooms and shower areas.
