The Milton, New Hampshire region experiences four distinct seasons, with summer temperatures averaging 75-80°F and winter lows frequently below freezing. Most camping facilities operate seasonally from May through mid-October when the weather conditions are most favorable. The region's terrain features a mix of lakes, ponds, and wooded areas that create diverse camping environments from waterfront sites to forest settings.
What to do
Water activities at Pawtuckaway State Park: Located about 25 miles from Milton, the park offers excellent paddling opportunities on the lake. "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," notes Matt R. about Pawtuckaway State Park Campground.
Mountain biking trails: Bear Brook State Park provides extensive trail networks for various skill levels. "We camped here to check out the mountain bike trails in the park and we're not disappointed on either count. The campground is nice and spacious, well kept and the staff is friendly. The biking trails were a blast," according to Eammon C. at Bear Brook State Park Campground.
Tubing and arcade games: Family-friendly activities abound near Milton. "This campground is pretty big, sprawled out with lots to do, like tubing, cornhole, arcade, pools with slide and more," says Ben M. about Salmon Falls / Lebanon KOA.
What campers like
Private waterfront access: Many campers appreciate the secluded pond-side settings. "Small quiet campground not too far from Dover, NH. Sites are narrow but wooded. The pond is tranquil and our site was right on the pond," shares Pat about Beaver Dam Campground.
Well-maintained facilities: Clean, modern amenities stand out in reviews. "Very nice campground, well maintained, beautiful lake," Jeremy S. notes about Bear Brook State Park Campground.
Family-oriented activities: Organized events keep children engaged throughout their stay. "This Campground is family friendly and has a lot to offer. Our camping group consisted of children from the ages of 8-17 yrs old. No one was bored," states J B. about Salmon Falls / Lebanon KOA.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Be prepared for sudden changes in weather, especially in spring and fall. "During these Covid times overall I had a great time. Staff was very friendly and extremely cautious about their surroundings. Plenty of things to do to stay busy during the rainy days," reports Nate J. at Salmon Falls / Lebanon KOA.
Site selection matters: Research specific site numbers before booking for optimal experience. "Definitely do your research on the different site numbers because some sites are much more private and scenic than others. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and fire pit as an added bonus," advises Anna C. about Pawtuckaway State Park Campground.
Off-season benefits: Consider camping after peak periods for more privacy and availability. "We went in early May, when it was still a bit cold at night (in the low 40s) and not many people were around. The campground, though we had neighbors in every adjoining site, was pretty quiet," shares Kris M. about Pawtuckaway.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly waterparks: Many campgrounds near Milton feature water recreation facilities. "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!" reports Samantha N. about Salmon Falls River RV Resort and Family Campground.
Book waterfront sites early: Sites with direct water access are most popular. "The sites on the water book up quickly but they're perfect for fishing and boating. Also, the view!" notes J L. about Pawtuckaway State Park Campground.
Explore small libraries: Some campgrounds offer unexpected amenities for children. "Small and quaint. This was such an adorable perfect campsite. Lots of seasonal campers who are all super friendly and helpful. My daughters first stop was the adorable library! Books, games and movies galore!" shares Laura K. about Bunganut Lake Camping Area.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Be prepared with leveling blocks at some campgrounds. "Campsite has been under renovation for a few years now. Changed owners a few times and now is apparently a KOA. Booked a river campsite but there was no river to be seen," Brian G. warns about Flat Rock Bridge Family Resort.
Hookup options vary: Research available utilities before arrival. "We were able to book last minute and got a great tenting site, next to a running river that was great to sleep to. Very buggy, but it's outside, what do you expect? They advertised the site as a grass site, but it was all sand," Ben J. reports about Salmon Falls / Lebanon KOA.
Space considerations: Larger RVs may find navigation challenging at some locations. "I was in site 38 and found that the little loop to my campsite was tight to exit (I was towing a 14' teardrop, not a big trailer) and I had to be careful to swing wide at the corner," Jean C. observes about Bear Brook State Park Campground.
