Tent camping near Madbury, New Hampshire offers diverse camping experiences throughout the region's distinctive four-season climate. The area sits approximately 100 feet above sea level with rolling hills and mixed forests dominating the landscape. Summer temperatures typically range between 65-85°F during peak camping months, with cooler evenings that can drop into the 50s even in July and August.
What to do
Kayaking at Squam Lake: Visitors to Squam Lakes Association can enjoy excellent paddling opportunities on Squam Lake. As one camper noted, "Simple, but gorgeous. The association maintains about a dozen campsites in the Squam Lake area -- some hike-in and others boat-in only." The association offers rental equipment and basic campsites with fire rings.
Beach access in Saco: Located about 45 minutes from Madbury, Sun Outdoors Saco Old Orchard Beach provides convenient access to sandy beaches. A reviewer mentioned, "This campground is four miles from Old Orchard Beach which is a trip. It is a throw-back from your childhood when carnival rides and funnel cakes made you so happy." Campers can use the summer shuttle service to reach the beach without parking hassles.
Hiking in Breakheart Reservation: Camp Nihan Education Center borders Breakheart Reservation, offering hiking trails for all skill levels. A camper reported, "The camp is also adjacent to Breakheart Reservation, which had a great shallow pond with life guard on duty as well as bike trails and a range of different hikes." Most trails are under 3 miles and suitable for families.
What campers like
Private tent sites: The best tent camping near Madbury often features secluded spots. At Lost Boys Hideout, campers appreciate privacy in walk-in sites. One camper mentioned recent upgrades: "Nice new tents provided at Sleepy Hollow site. Improvements to the firepit, area all mulched, even some games and water are provided!"
Clean facilities: Many tent campers value well-maintained bathrooms. Cape Ann Camp Site maintains their facilities despite their rustic nature. A reviewer noted: "Cape Ann Campground is located close to Gloucester and Rockport. The campground is clean and quiet with beautiful tent sites. The RV sites are not as secluded as the tent sites. Clean Bathrooms and pay showers (5 cents)."
Family activities: Salmon Falls River RV Resort and Family Campground offers numerous recreational options for families. A camper described it as "Kids Paradise," adding "If you have young kids this place is so fun! Multiple pools, a water slide, high ropes, a jump pad, mini golf and more!!! My niece had so much fun!"
What you should know
Reservation timing: The most sought-after tent camping spots near Madbury book quickly. Squam Lakes Association sites open for reservation on February 15th each year and "fill up quickly when reservations open for the year," according to one reviewer.
Facilities vary widely: Some campgrounds offer minimal amenities. One camper described Viewland Campground as having a steep access road and limited facilities. The reviewer noted: "The road to get to Viewland Campground is very steep. The campground loop is a one-way loop that is not easily marked."
Water access considerations: Many tent sites require you to bring your own water or use filters. At Squam Lakes Association, there is "no picnic table or drinking water. Come prepared with your own water...or a filter," according to one reviewer.
Tips for camping with families
Choose kid-friendly campgrounds: Select sites with dedicated children's activities. One parent noted about Salmon Falls River Camping Resort: "A little of everything at this campground, 2 pools 2 hot tubes, a giant water slide that is even fun for the adults!!! Campsites are level and site is fairly easy to maneuver with bigger rigs."
Consider bathroom proximity: For young children, camp near restrooms. At Camp Nihan Education Center, a parent shared: "The group site is super close to parking and yet the terrain is rugged enough that it always felt like we were really in the woods. A recently renovated bathroom and shower facility makes clean ups easy."
Pack for changing weather: The Madbury region can experience significant temperature shifts. Evenings can be 20-30 degrees cooler than daytime highs even in summer, requiring extra layers for children.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Many campgrounds near Madbury have restrictions for larger RVs. At Cape Ann Camp Site, a visitor noted: "Campground is clean but very rustic. Facilities are on the old side. Great beach access and friendly staff." Sites often accommodate smaller rigs better than large motorhomes.
Check hookup availability: Hookups vary significantly between campgrounds. An RV camper at Salmon Falls River Camping Resort advised: "Campsites are level and site is fairly easy to maneuver with bigger rigs. Have great activities daily for the kids a nice store onsite."
Consider seasonal rentals: Many campgrounds near Madbury have seasonal or long-term rental options. One visitor to Viewland Campground observed: "We passed many campers that had been on this property permanently, several of which had porches attached or additional rooms built on the side."
