The New Durham area sits at approximately 700 feet elevation in New Hampshire's Lakes Region, with diverse terrain featuring a mix of forests and waterways throughout the spring and summer camping seasons. Seasonal temperatures range from cool 50°F nights to 80°F summer days, with higher humidity levels from June through August. Early and late season campers should prepare for occasional overnight temperatures in the 40s, particularly in May and September.
What to do
Kayaking on Merrymeeting Lake: Launch from sites near New Durham for paddling with mountain views. White Lake State Park Campground offers rentals for those without equipment. "We stayed in sites 110 and our friends stayed in 109 on Big Island. Those were wonderful sites, level with great views of the lake," notes one visitor about the experience.
Hiking mountain trails: Within 30 minutes of New Durham, Pawtuckaway State Park Campground offers trails ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. "Pretty serious trail up and around some mountains, to a fire tower, ponds. There are at least three campground areas, one of which is on an island and has tent sites along the water," shares a camper.
Fishing local waters: Most area lakes permit fishing with a New Hampshire fishing license. According to a Pawtuckaway visitor, "The sites on the water book up quickly but they're perfect for fishing and boating. Also, the view!"
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Priority booking recommended for premium lake views. Bear Brook State Park Campground spans 10,000 forested acres with water access. "Located in a 10000 acre forest preserve, the campground is heavily forested and very secluded from civilization. The swimming area at the pond looked very inviting for summer time campers," reports one camper.
Clean facilities: Most campgrounds maintain modern bathhouses with hot showers. At Beaver Dam Campground, "Bathrooms are modern and spotless. Owners on site are wonderful. The pond is tranquil and our site was right on the pond."
Family activities: Sites within 30 minutes of New Durham feature designated recreation areas. "This campground is beautiful and in a nice location in the state park but is really crowded in the summer months with large groups of loud children," notes one Pawtuckaway camper, highlighting the family-friendly atmosphere.
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most glamping options near New Durham operate from mid-May through mid-October, with varying closing dates. "Tried to plan ahead this year and get a prime site to learn they don't allow dogs anywhere in the campground during summer months. I would of hoped for one loop but NH state parks are anti-dog I guess," explains a Pawtuckaway visitor regarding restrictions.
Campsite proximity: Sites at many campgrounds sit closer together than primitive camping options. At White Lake State Park Campground, one visitor noted, "Our site, #02 on Loop 2, was in very close proximity to all of the neighboring sites."
Bug preparation: The New Hampshire region experiences significant mosquito activity, especially at dusk from June through August. One camper advises, "Bring your bug spray, citronella candles and smoky firewood—the bugs here are no joke. But if you come prepared you can get by with minimal bites."
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for kids: Lakes provide swimming opportunities with varied depths. Salmon Falls River RV Resort offers structured water recreation. "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!"
Site selection for groups: Reserve adjacent sites 6-8 months ahead for summer dates. At Bear Brook State Park, "I also liked the sites across from ours near the ball field and thought they would make a nice place for a large group of friends to pitch their tents (Sites 31, 32, 33, 34)."
Bicycle-friendly campgrounds: Many campsites feature interior roads for safe riding. "Every summer, we would take the kids camping for a week at White Lake State Park and we all loved it. There's a great beach with lots of room and a big Sandy swimming area. You can rent canoes, hike around the lake, and the kids could safely ride their bikes around the campground."
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Several campgrounds offer water, electric, and sewer connections. Ellacoya State Park Campground provides lake access with services. "Full hookups (W,E,S) at each site. Sites are level and mostly grassy. Sites are more spacious than some RV campgrounds we've been at."
RV site layouts: Open parking-style arrangements common at some locations. An Ellacoya visitor notes, "The area for RVs needs more trees! The beach for the registered campers is lovely, and it has a lovely view of the Lake. But there is no shade or privacy between RV sites."
Water and electric restrictions: Check specific campground policies on generator use and utility availability. Bear Brook State Park has specific accommodations: "Big-rig friendly drinking water, electric hookups, fifty-amp hookups, thirty-amp hookups allowed."
