Primitive tent campsites near East Merrimack, New Hampshire offer basic amenities within a region dominated by mixed hardwood forests at elevations between 200-500 feet. Summer nighttime temperatures can drop into the 50s even in July and August, creating ideal sleeping conditions for tent campers. Seasonal considerations include blackfly season from mid-May through June and limited site availability during fall foliage weekends.
What to do
Kayak exploration: Tully Lake in Royalston offers rentable watercraft with numerous islands to discover. "You can find lots of private areas to swim, pick blueberries and relax. It's a beautiful area right in your own back yard," notes Ben P. The lake features sheltered coves ideal for beginners.
Hiking trails: Boston Harbor Islands State Park provides multiple island trails with city skyline views. "We found all kinds of bunkers and a brick house. We ended up making a fire pit on the beach and a flat rock 'grill' to make our burgers," shares Jess G. The islands require ferry access with scheduled departures from Long Wharf or Hingham.
Beach access: Cape Ann Camp Site puts campers near coastal swimming. "Beach down the street was big, beautiful and low tide was unexpected as you could walk for ever," according to Ron C. Most nearby beaches have limited parking, so camping provides easier access during summer weekends.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Site selection significantly impacts privacy at tent-only campgrounds. At Tully Lake Recreation Area, "The campsites are spacious and though there is not a bad site, some are better suited for certain purposes like group camping." Areas farther from bathhouses offer more seclusion but require longer walks.
Cart transportation: The wheelbarrow system at walk-in sites receives positive feedback. "Large wooden wheelbarrows are provided to bring your gear to your camp site," explains a camper at Tully Lake. This system prevents vehicle noise and creates a more traditional camping atmosphere.
Natural features: Tent campers appreciate the undisturbed woodland settings. Camp Nihan offers "the terrain is rugged enough that it always felt like we were really in the woods" while providing "a recently renovated bathroom and shower facility makes clean ups easy," notes Michael V.
What you should know
Shower facilities: Coin-operated showers are standard at most tent-focused campgrounds. "25 cents per 5 minute hot shower is offered in the public restroom," notes one Cape Ann camper. Budget quarters accordingly as change machines aren't always available.
Cart distance considerations: At Lost Boys Hideout, the walk-in sites require physical exertion. Cart trails vary from flat to challenging with some sites requiring multiple trips. "Simplicity at its best," reports Steve K., highlighting that minimalist packing makes the experience more enjoyable.
Cell service limitations: Most rustic tent sites have unreliable connectivity. Tully Lake campers report having to walk or drive away from the campground to reconnect. Download maps and campground information before arrival as online booking confirmations may be inaccessible on site.
Fire regulations: Most tent campgrounds prohibit collecting firewood. "You have to buy firewood from them," notes one camper about Tully Lake policies. This restriction helps prevent spread of invasive insects. Firewood prices average $6-8 per bundle at most locations.
Tips for camping with families
Short-distance test sites: For families new to tent camping, Camp Nihan Education Center offers an ideal introduction. "We went camping here with our SpiralScout Circle, kids aged 4-8. 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," explains Michael V. This balance of convenience and wilderness experience helps children adjust.
Car-free camping benefits: Vehicle-free campsites create safer environments for children. "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," reports a Tully Lake camper. This setup encourages more relaxed supervision.
Midweek timing: School vacation weeks see high demand for family-friendly campgrounds. Weekend reservations fill months in advance, while Tuesday-Thursday arrivals offer more availability. Holiday weekends book immediately when reservation systems open.
Island camping adventure: Boston Harbor Islands offers unique family experiences. "Just getting to the island is a fun adventure. The island is beautiful and has an old fort to explore as well as a lot of Rocky shoreline and trails," writes Martha H. The ferry transportation adds excitement for children.
Tips from RVers
Vehicle-free tent areas: RVers seeking quiet tent experiences can find hybrid options. Salmon Falls River RV Resort offers both developed RV sites and walk-in tent areas. "Campsites are level and site is fairly easy to maneuver with bigger rigs," reports Aaron G., while also offering tent campers more secluded options away from the main RV sections.
Multi-accommodation campers: Families using both tents and RVs can find accommodating campgrounds. Cape Ann Camp Site welcomes both tent and RV campers with varying site types. "Very nice and enjoyable," comments one tent camper about the wooded areas separate from the RV section.
Amenity considerations: RVers used to hookups should adjust expectations for tent-only experiences. While some campgrounds offer electric at select tent sites, most primitive sites provide only a fire ring and picnic table. When transitioning between camping styles, carefully review the amenities list for each specific site type.
