Campers near Milford, New Hampshire can access a mix of state parks and private campgrounds within a 30-mile radius. The region sits between 200-400 feet in elevation with rolling hills and small lakes scattered throughout the landscape. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F with higher humidity levels compared to northern New Hampshire campgrounds.
What to do
Hiking opportunities: Bear Brook State Park Campground offers extensive trail systems within its 10,000-acre forest preserve. "The trails were very well marked and really conveniently close by to the campsites," notes one visitor who appreciated the accessibility of nature walks from camp.
Water activities: Pawtuckaway State Park Campground provides multiple water-based recreation options. "This a a fantastic little camp for if you want to go canoeing or kayaking or boating of any kind! It's set up of three islands and a large majority of the campsites are right on the water," explains one camper who enjoyed the lakefront access.
Fishing spots: The small ponds at Oxbow Campground cater to anglers of all skill levels. A visitor observed, "There was a family with several smaller children who were fishing the pond. It was so cute to hear them squeal with glee when they caught a fish." The campground maintains separate ponds for fishing, boating and swimming.
What campers like
Multiple swimming options: Cold Springs Camp Resort stands out for its aquatic facilities. One reviewer highlighted, "Very family centric, 7 pools which (include 2 hot tubs, a small 2x2 pool for kiddos, 1 adult only pool and 3 family pools)." These varied water options allow for different swimming experiences based on preference.
Clean facilities: Consistent maintenance ranks high among camper priorities. A visitor to Autumn Hills Campground emphasized, "The bathhouses are probably the best maintained of any campground I've stayed at. They're cleaned multiple time a day."
Proximity to water: Waterfront sites create enhanced camping experiences. According to one camper at Pawtuckaway, "The sites on the water book up quickly but they're perfect for fishing and boating. Also, the view!" Sites directly on ponds and lakes typically require earlier reservations, especially during summer months.
What you should know
Site variations: Campground layouts differ significantly in the region. A visitor to Friendly Beaver noted, "The campsites have VERY little to no privacy, we had to hang up tarps in between us and our neighbor or else we would practically be looking straight at each other if we both had a camp fire at the same time."
Reservation systems: Most campgrounds require advance booking, particularly for premium sites. At Cold Springs Camp Resort, visitors mention restrictions like "limit of 2 adults MAX per site. As an adult with no kids I would like to bring along another couple once in a while that also enjoys camping."
Seasonal operations: Most glamping close to Milford, New Hampshire operates between May and October. Bear Brook State Park campground offers slightly extended seasons, with one camper noting, "I've used it twice just as a stopover between the coast and a vacation in VT, both times coming in dusk and leaving after dawn."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: The Pine Campground offers child-friendly amenities. "We picked a site down the road from the playground, if you have kids you may want to be closer," advises one family who appreciated the play areas but wanted quieter sleeping arrangements.
Kid-friendly activities: Structured events enhance family camping experiences. A visitor to Autumn Hills reported, "They do have a pool, park, dog park, lake and food trucks visits at times. They have community fires and dances."
Campsite selection for families: Noise considerations affect family camping experiences. A Bear Brook camper advised, "Site 91 is near the entrance, but large and set back from the camp road, so it offers some extra seclusion. It's across the street from the playground. I'd avoid site 93 because it is so close to the playground."
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Navigation challenges exist at some campgrounds. A visitor to Willard Brook State Forest Campground observed, "Sites are largely level, around a small, bisected loop with towering pines. Most of the sites are best suited to tents and small trailers (think teardrops and pop-ups), but a couple of sites can accommodate slightly larger units."
Hookup availability: RV services vary significantly between campgrounds. At Friendly Beaver, one RVer reported, "Stayed in cabin and tented, as well. Only negative is that there transient RV sites seem crowded, and many are out in open area. I prefer trees, but this wont keep us away from trying out RV sites this year."
Satellite options: For those seeking luxury glamping close to Milford, options include full-service sites. A visitor to Oxbow Campground appreciated that "because we are fully self-contained and need no hook-ups, he gave us a small discount on our night."
