Cabin rentals near Nelson, New Hampshire offer rustic accommodations amid the rolling hills and dense woodlands of the Monadnock Region. Located in southwestern New Hampshire at around 1,500 feet elevation, this area experiences warm summers with cool evenings and cold, snowy winters. Cabin availability peaks from May through September when temperatures range from 45°F nights to 80°F days.
What to do
River activities: Ashuelot River Campground provides direct river access for water recreation. "We brought our kayaks and had no problem kayaking on the flat surface river," notes Karen O. The campground offers "canoes and kayaks for rent, plus a shuttle service for water sports or biking," according to Carry M.
Fishing opportunities: Oxbow Campground features multiple ponds dedicated to different activities. "The fishing pond was perfect. I will be returning soon. I highly recommend this place if you have a family or simply need a place to clear your mind," shares Kelly W. Fishing is available at many cabin locations throughout the region.
Hiking and biking trails: The Ashuelot Rail Trail connects directly to Ashuelot River Campground. Cabin guests can access numerous trails within a 30-minute drive. Spacious Skies Seven Maples offers "lots of hiking trails (the dogs loved it). Can't wait to come back next year and explore the lake along the hike," according to Richard W.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Sites at Swanzey Lake Camping Area offer varying degrees of seclusion. "The sites are very close together with not enough tree coverage between them," notes Sarah B. about tent sites. Cabin locations across the region range from densely wooded to open field settings.
Swimming options: Multiple swimming areas exist near cabin rentals. "The pond is wide and looks great for floating when the weather is warmer," reports Evey M. about Ashuelot River. Cold Springs Camp Resort offers "7 pools which (include 2 hot tubs, a small 2x2 pool for kiddos, 1 adult only pool and 3 family pools)," according to Kara C.
Game areas and recreation halls: Many cabin rental locations include indoor and outdoor recreation options. At Cold Springs Camp Resort, there are "organized bingo, hayrides, large pools, an adult only pool, hot tubs, a pond, etc," Brandon C. explains. Friendly Beaver Campground provides "a playground, volleyball, horseshoes, game room. Kayaks and canoes for rent," according to Camie S.
What you should know
Bathroom facilities: Bathroom quality varies significantly between cabin locations. At Otter River State Forest, "the bathrooms and showers are clean (and free), and the rangers are exceptionally friendly," reports Kris M. Some cabin rentals include private bathrooms while others require using communal facilities.
Reservation timing: Most cabins require booking well in advance, especially for summer weekends. Fall foliage season (late September to mid-October) also fills quickly due to leaf peepers visiting the region.
Seasonal restrictions: Most cabin rentals operate from May through October. Cold Springs Camp Resort operates May-October, while Ashuelot River Campground is open "May 1 to October 31." Winter cabin options are limited but available at select locations year-round.
Tips for camping with families
Pool amenities: Friendly Beaver Campground offers multiple swimming options. "They have 3 outdoor pools(sports,toddler,regular) plus an indoor pool for rainy or chilly days. They have a few animals the kids can feed. They also have crafts, hayrides and games,playground and other events," says Kate C.
Kid-friendly activities: Many campgrounds schedule regular activities. "The owners are very friendly and knowledgeable of the area. They had activities for kids and adults," reports Jason A. about Brattleboro North Kampground and Cottages.
Noise considerations: Cabin proximity affects noise levels. "The campground was clean and well-maintained but the sites are quite small and close together. There were a ton of kids and it was pretty noisy until about 11pm and then starting again around 7am," explains Taylor R. about Otter River State Forest.
Tips from RVers
Access challenges: Some cabin areas have limited access for larger vehicles. At Swanzey Lake Camping Area, "Don't come in off of rt 10, there's a low covered, one lane bridge that you can't tow thru. Some of the turns aren't so friendly either," warns Camie S.
Utility concerns: Electric service varies between cabin rental locations. At Kampfires, "we could also have packages delivered," notes Sammii D., which can be helpful for longer stays. Zachary W. cautions about Seven Maples: "Had issues with 30 amp service at site was not providing enough power, could not run all my campers amenities."
Site selection: Choose sites based on specific needs. "Sites along the river, pull thrus in the field, shaded along the edge of the field, completely wooded area towards the end of the campground," describes Camie S. about the layout at Ashuelot River Campground.
