Camping near Manchester, NH

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    State parks and private campgrounds surround Manchester, New Hampshire, providing diverse camping experiences within a 30-mile radius of the city. Bear Brook State Park, located in Deerfield about 20 miles east of Manchester, stands as New Hampshire's largest state park with wooded campsites under towering pines. Pawtuckaway State Park in Nottingham offers waterfront camping along Pawtuckaway Lake with opportunities for paddling, swimming, and hiking to a fire tower. Closer to Manchester, Calef Lake Camping Area in Auburn and Hidden Valley RV Park in Derry provide more developed options with full hookups for RVs. The camping landscape includes everything from primitive tent sites to glamping accommodations and cabins, with most facilities operating seasonally from May through October.

    Most campgrounds in the region require advance reservations, particularly for weekend stays during the peak summer season. Cell phone coverage varies significantly, with many state parks offering limited connectivity—Verizon users typically report 1-2 bars in wooded areas. As one camper noted about Bear Brook State Park, "The campground is tucked away in the woods so you really feel like you're away from the cities in the area." New Hampshire's notorious mosquitoes become active in late spring, making insect repellent essential equipment. Many campgrounds close for winter, though the Military Park at New Boston Air Force Station remains open year-round. Narrow access roads and tight camping loops can challenge larger RVs, especially at older state park campgrounds.

    Waterfront sites consistently receive the highest praise from visitors, though they require booking well in advance. "Generally large and level sites, many with water access. Make your reservation well in advance if you're planning to visit during peak season or if you want a prime waterfront site," advises one Pawtuckaway State Park reviewer. Family-friendly amenities feature prominently in the region's campgrounds, with Bear Brook offering playgrounds, beaches, and hiking trails. Bathroom facilities vary widely in quality and maintenance, with some state parks providing free showers while others require quarters for hot water. Pet policies differ significantly between locations—some state parks prohibit pets during peak season (Memorial Day to Columbus Day), while private campgrounds typically welcome them year-round with certain restrictions.

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    Best Campgrounds near Manchester (175)

      1. Pawtuckaway State Park Campground

      4.2(44)16mi from Manchester189 sitesRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "Driving around this past weekend I did notice that some of the sites had damp spots; site 71 was the worst with deep mud on the long approach."

      "My first time experiencing a park in the New Hampshire Park system. We went down with a group. Pawtuckaway State Park offers a variety of landscapes, with something to do and see for everyone."

      from $35 - $140 / night

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      2. Bear Brook State Park Campground

      4.4(28)11mi from Manchester100 sitesRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "The park was easy to get to, only about half an hour from Manchester. It has kayak rentals and a very well stocked camp store, that was close to the camp sites."

      "Tucked away in what feels like the middle of nowhere New Hampshire is it's largest state park. Bear Brook is full of trails, ponds and a fairly large campground."

      from $35 - $45 / night

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      3. Calef Lake Camping Area

      4.0(7)6mi from ManchesterRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "Beautiful location in southern NH! Located Beside a lake, The water is great for swimming, and the playground is absolutely perfect for kids and adults alike."

      "They originally booked us on a site so small, our tent wouldn’t even fit so we weren’t going to be able to have a fire because our tent was so close to it."

      from $20 - $40 / night

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      4. Friendly Beaver Campground

      3.4(13)14mi from ManchesterRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "The views outside our camper window is amazing. We’re surrounding be trees and it’s breathtaking when surrounded by freshly fallen snow."

      "I prefer trees, but this wont keep us away from trying out RV sites this year."

      from $60 - $130 / night

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      5. Autumn Hills Campground

      3.8(9)12mi from ManchesterRVs, Tents, Glamping

      "Lake access, inground pool, ball field, and lots of activities for the kids makes this a great place to relax with the family."

      "Campground is peaceful and quiet; the lake is within close proximity to most sites; I wouldn’t say it’s the best place for swimming but overall a great place to launch a kayak or canoe and paddle about"

      from $45 - $60 / night

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      6. Cold Springs Camp Resort

      4.7(6)14mi from ManchesterRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "Beautiful, extremely clean bathrooms, reasonably priced little cafe, big camp store, very friendly staff, 4 outdoor pools & pretty big campground that has a gated entry/exit that needs a key card pass"

      from $69 - $130 / night

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      7. Greenfield State Park Campground

      4.2(21)22mi from Manchester255 sitesRVs, Tents

      "Easy access to a bathroom (which was very clean). Quiet neighbors, everyone around us observed the quiet hours (10p-7a) and even during the day no one was super loud."

      "Nice views of the lake, swimming, wide open sites, not too over crowded! I'd definitely go back!"

      from $35 - $105 / night

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      8. Hidden Valley RV and Golf Park

      4.0(4)11mi from ManchesterRVs, Tents

      9. Military Park New Boston Air Force Station New Boston Recreation Area

      5.0(1)9mi from ManchesterTents

      10. Epsom Valley Campground

      4.5(8)19mi from ManchesterRVs, Tents

      "I enjoyed the hiking trails in the back and a pretty good amount of things to do near by. Being able to walk to a store and restaurant is great."

      "We only wanted to stay for one and when we arrived, the older women drove me around in the golf cart to see which site would best suit us and I just thought it was the sweetest thing!"

      from $35 - $165 / night

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    Recent Reviews near Manchester, NH

    794 Reviews of 175 Manchester Campgrounds


    • Lori L N.
      Jun. 14, 2026

      Northstar Campground

      Friendly, clean and well managed!

      Our first visit to the campground was the beginning of June. At check in we were greeted with a smile, which speaks volumes to me. We are tenters and we chose site 65, which is in a cul de sac, super big(an RV could fit there for sure) and nice and quiet. The river sites are actually quite nice and most likely where we would try to book next time. Our neighbors were respectful with their radio and noise(which I appreciate and the campground makes mention in their rules). The sites are all groomed and free from large rocks and debris. Each site also has its own trash receptacle that is emptied each day, so no need to go to the dumpster! The bathrooms/showers were exceptionally clean. We didn't take advantage of any other amenities, but there are things going on each day/night and plenty of grassy common areas for your own activities. Overall I give this campground a 10. It was everything we needed to make our stay pleasant!!

    • A
      Jun. 14, 2026

      Jellystone Park™ Lakes Region

      I stayed in a tent and it was the most fun I had with my famil y

      Great people, family friendly, lots of activities

    • Heather H.The Dyrt PRO User
      Jun. 13, 2026

      Sea Coast Camping and RV Resort

      Great Spot

      This is a really great campground. However, the cell service is terrible. I do have Wi-Fi, but it is very weak. I would count on having to use Starlink.

    • Julie S.The Dyrt PRO User
      Jun. 10, 2026

      Winter Island Park

      Can’t beat the view

      I was lucky enough to score one of the waterfront spots for one night of my stay. I backed in and opened the rear doors of my campervan and just stared at the ocean view for hours. Spectacular!

    • Alizé B.
      May. 21, 2026

      Field and Stream RV Park

      Highly recommend

      Amazing place and community, unfortunately very expensive.

    • Sue B.The Dyrt PRO User
      May. 15, 2026

      Salisbury Beach State Reservation

      Love camping here!

      The first time we camped here was on Columbus Day weekend a number of years ago, and we got to see seals sun bathing on the beach. Are kids thought it was the greatest thing ever! The sites are a little close together and many of them are in direct sunlight , so that isn't the greatest , but if you have an awning, you should be good. We love that it is right on the water, and we can walk to the beach. We also appreciate that it is pet friendly, and our dogs love it too. Write down the street from camp, there is a street setup almost like a boardwalk, with arcades, live music, ice cream, food, and a carousel! There is also a bigger beach, and you are one twin away from New Hampshire. Lots to see and do here!

    • Devin
      May. 3, 2026

      Winding River Campground

      Close Sites, Loved the River!

      My husband and I had a great time here! We went early in the season, so there were not many people there. We met the new owners/managers and they were very friendly. David was attentive and very helpful!

      We stayed in the Oak Section at 317. The sites are pretty close together, which is why I gave a 4. We didn’t have neighbors, but I can imagine on a busy weekend, it might get crowded. The Utilities at this site were in an awkward spot, compared to where we wanted the camper.

    • S
      Apr. 30, 2026

      Oxbow Campground

      Clean, Spacious & Friendly

      Oxbow Campground in Deering has a helpful and friendly staff. The bathrooms are kept clean although should be updated.

      The campsites are spacious, trash picked up and very quiet at night promoting a good night's sleep.

      They sell their own fire wood, an employee who services campers is also available. 

      They have a propane fill station for your convenience too!

      Dogs must be kept on leashes for safety.

      Owners live right there within the park.and take pride in their facility.

      A nice family owned and run park promoting peacefulness.


    Guide to Manchester

    Camping near Manchester, New Hampshire, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

    What to do:

    What campers like:

    • Spacious Sites: Campers at Greenfield State Park Campground appreciate the large, private sites. A long-time visitor shared, "If you like large sites in a wooded setting with many private ones, this is the place."
    • Clean Facilities: Many enjoy the well-maintained restrooms and showers at Lorraine Park Campground. One reviewer mentioned, "The sanitary building is clean with good showers."
    • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Families love the amenities at Sandy Pines Campground. A satisfied camper said, "Beautiful setting, very well run, clean and comfortable bathrooms. Lots of family-friendly amenities."

    What you should know:

    • Limited Cell Service: At Monadnock State Park Campground, some campers reported no cell service. One said, "I wish this were clearer on their website as we needed service to do some work."
    • Pet Policies: If you're bringing a furry friend, check the rules. For instance, pets are not allowed at White Lake State Park Campground. A reviewer noted, "Pets are not allowed in the campground or beach area of the park."
    • Crowded Weekends: Expect busier conditions on weekends. A visitor at Greenfield State Park Campground mentioned, "The weekend was packed! Our neighbors were playing karaoke till 11pm."

    Tips for camping with families:

    • Choose the Right Campground: Look for family-friendly spots like Wompatuck State Park Campground. One camper said, "Wompatuck is a charming state park with numerous hidden trails known mostly to locals."
    • Plan Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities. A family at Bear Brook State Park Campground enjoyed the beach and playground, saying, "The campground has a beach, a playground, a ball field, and a store."
    • Pack for Bugs: Be prepared for insects, especially in wooded areas. A camper at Monadnock State Park Campground warned, "The bugs… holy hell, the bugs."

    Tips from RVers:

    • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Minute Man Campground mentioned, "Some of the FHU sites are pretty tight, but overall the campground is nice."
    • Look for Amenities: Choose campgrounds with electric hookups, like Sandy Pines Campground. One camper said, "The campground is clean and the facilities are in great shape."
    • Be Mindful of Noise: Some campgrounds can get noisy. A visitor at Wompatuck State Park Campground noted, "You don't have the feeling of being really in the woods."

    Camping around Manchester, NH, has something for everyone, whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What are the best campgrounds near Manchester, NH?

    The Manchester area boasts several highly-rated campgrounds. Ayers Lake Farm Campground and Cottages is a family-owned gem offering beautiful views of a serene New Hampshire pond. Woodmore Family Campground and RV Park receives excellent reviews for its friendly atmosphere, cleanliness, and recreational activities. For those seeking more natural settings, Pillsbury State Park provides a more primitive camping experience with lakeside sites. Hidden Valley RV and Golf Park combines camping with golfing opportunities. If you're willing to drive a bit further, Gilson Pond Campground at Monadnock State Park offers access to one of New Hampshire's most popular hiking mountains.

    Are there affordable camping options in Manchester, NH?

    Yes, there are several budget-friendly camping options near Manchester. Pillsbury State Park Campground offers primitive camping (no showers or electric hookups) at reasonable rates, with many sites situated on a beautiful lake. Greenfield State Park Campground provides affordable camping in a wooded setting with access to hiking trails. State park campgrounds typically charge $25-45 per night depending on residency and amenities. For an even more economical option, the new Roots and Wings Homestead offers a relaxing rural New Hampshire camping experience. Camping off-season (spring/fall) can also result in lower rates and fewer crowds at many campgrounds near Manchester.

    What amenities do Manchester, NH campgrounds offer?

    Campgrounds near Manchester offer a range of amenities to suit different camping styles. Tully Lake Recreation Area provides prime campsites with direct water access. Beach Rose RV Park features a swimming pool, clean facilities, and is conveniently located near beaches. For families, many campgrounds like Friendly Beaver and Cold Springs Camp Resort offer playgrounds, swimming areas, camp stores, and organized activities. Full-service RV parks typically provide electric hookups, water connections, dump stations, and Wi-Fi. State park campgrounds like Bear Brook include amenities such as restrooms, fire rings, picnic tables, and access to hiking trails, though they may have more limited facilities than private campgrounds. Many campgrounds also rent cabins for those without camping equipment.

    What parks in Manchester, NH allow camping?

    While Manchester itself has limited camping options within city limits, there are several excellent parks near Manchester that allow camping. Bear Brook State Park Campground is New Hampshire's largest state park and offers extensive camping facilities within a reasonable drive from Manchester. For those willing to travel a bit further, Pawtuckaway State Park Campground provides wooded campsites with water access. Both parks feature hiking trails, swimming areas, and other outdoor recreational opportunities. Additionally, several private campgrounds like Friendly Beaver Campground in New Boston and Calef Lake Camping Area in Auburn are within a short drive of Manchester and offer camping year-round.