Tent campsites near Manchester, New Hampshire offer access to both rugged wilderness settings and more developed facilities within a 30-mile drive. The region sits at elevations between 200-500 feet with typical summer temperatures reaching 80-85°F during peak camping season. Winter camping options remain limited, with most sites closing between mid-October and mid-May due to New England's harsh winter conditions.
What to do
Water activities at Tully Lake: Recreation area features multiple paddle options with canoe and kayak rentals available onsite. The lake allows swimming from designated campsites but has no formal swimming beach. "We rented kayaks right at the campground for a paddle around Tully Lake. Great trip!" shared Megan G. from Tully Lake Recreation Area.
Hiking trails: Doane's Falls near Tully Lake provides an easy family-friendly 1-mile loop with waterfall views. "If you'd like to hike with children, there is an easy hike close to the entrance, along Doane's Falls, a series of 5 waterfalls along an ascending path through a wooded area," notes a Camp Nihan visitor who appreciated the terrain's rugged feel while remaining accessible.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings offer the best opportunity to spot local wildlife including wild turkeys and deer. "Very nice folks, great sites with A LOT of space between them. Spectacular views and wild turkeys, deer, etc.." reports John S. from Cape Ann Camp Site.
What campers like
Rustic experience: Walk-in tent sites provide a more secluded experience without vehicle noise or traffic. "No cars at all at the campsites, which was great for peace of mind as our toddler roamed around. It also made for a super quiet stay," writes a Tully Lake camper.
Water access: Waterfront sites at Cape Ann Camp Site provide direct beach access within a short drive. "Cape Anne is beautiful. Perfect location with access to Rockport - a beautiful place to visit, shop, eat & a great little trail with great views. Beach down the street was big, beautiful and low tide was unexpected as you could walk for ever," notes Ron C.
Kid-friendly amenities: Some campgrounds feature specialized recreation facilities for families. "If you have young kids this place is so fun! Multiple pools, a water slide, high ropes, a jump pad, mini golf and more!!!" reports Samantha N. from Salmon Falls River RV Resort.
What you should know
Site accessibility varies: Many tent sites require significant walking from parking areas. "The sites near the water or on bluffs are further away, and though they provide carts the trails can make hauling them tough. Keeping gear to a minimum is a good idea," advises Miguel B. from Tully Lake Recreation Area.
Shower facilities: Most campgrounds charge for showers, typically requiring quarters. "Showers require payment with quarters. I don't know how many quarters it takes because I don't carry change. So I washed my hair in the sink," notes Ben E. from Cape Ann Camp Site.
Reservation timing: Prime sites book quickly during summer months, especially waterfront locations. "The sites fill up weeks out (and can completely fill the day registration opens, which is date-dependent each year...Booking for Memorial Day meant I booked in April), so you have to be on your game," explains a Tully Lake visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Environmental education options: Family programs at some sites provide structured learning activities. "The staff is friendly and know the locale, they were able to give us tips on good hikes," mentions a camper at Tully Lake, which offers ranger-led activities throughout summer.
Proximity to civilization: Some campgrounds provide wilderness experiences while remaining close to towns. "All of this right in Saugus MA, less than 30 minutes from Boston," notes Michael V. from Camp Nihan Education Center, highlighting its convenient location despite feeling remote.
Cell service limitations: Prepare for minimal connectivity at most sites. "Cell coverage is pretty close to absent or poor in most of the area, so download any maps you might want (driving, trail, geocaching) before you arrive," advises a Tully Lake camper about the technological limitations.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric and water hookups vary significantly between campgrounds near Manchester. "We paid $60 a night for a 30 amp spot with water," reports a Cape Ann Camp Site visitor about current pricing for RV sites with partial hookups.
Site surfacing: Many RV sites in the region lack concrete pads. "The sites are all dirt. There is no concrete pads," notes a Cape Ann Camp Site reviewer about the natural terrain at most sites in the area.
