Camping options near New Ipswich, New Hampshire range from basic tent sites to full-service RV parks. The area sits at approximately 1,020 feet elevation with forests of pine, maple, and birch dominating the landscape. Summer temperatures typically average between 70-85°F during the day, dropping to 50-60°F at night, making sleeping bags and warm clothing necessary even during summer camping trips.
What to do
Hiking trails access: The extensive trail system at Bear Brook State Park Campground provides opportunities for various skill levels. "The trails in the park are nice and well maintained. The larger pond has a nice beach and picnic area. Hang out by the stream with a little bridge and be lullaby-ed by the whooshing waters," notes a visitor who found the trails conveniently accessible from camp.
Kayaking and canoeing: Ashuelot River Campground offers direct water access with equipment rentals. "We brought our kayaks and had no problem kayaking on the flat surface river," explains one camper. The campground provides a shuttle service for water sports, allowing visitors to paddle different sections without needing to arrange transportation.
Mountain biking: The trail networks at Bear Brook State Park Campground attract riders of all levels. "We camped here to check out the mountain bike trails in the park and weren't disappointed on either count. The biking trails were a blast," states a reviewer who appreciated being able to "ride right off the campground and onto the trails."
What campers like
Privacy and space: Sites at Pawtuckaway State Park Campground vary significantly in seclusion. "Sites are level and roomy. If possible, reserve those to ensure the best spots (the sunrise!), but all of the campground sites are nice," writes one camper. Many tent sites along the water provide separation from other campers.
Clean facilities: Oxbow Campground receives consistent praise for maintenance. "Tom takes great care to keep the grounds and the bathrooms/showers very clean. It is obvious he takes pride in ownership," reports a visitor. The campground offers free hot showers, unlike many state parks that require quarters.
Swimming options: Cold Springs Camp Resort features multiple pool areas for different age groups. "They have 3 outdoor pools and 1 indoor pool. Lots of activities for the kids and the bathrooms were pretty clean for a campground," notes a camper. The indoor pool provides a swimming option during rainy or cooler days.
What you should know
Site selection matters: At Otter River State Forest, the campground layout affects privacy levels. "The sites that are near the small pond are generally larger and have better space for pitching a tent. The sites on the first two loops/spur roads are smaller and most of them are designated for tents only or tents/popups," explains a recent visitor. Researching specific site numbers before booking improves the camping experience.
Limited tent sites: Many campgrounds in the region prioritize RV camping with fewer options for tent campers. "Only maybe 8 tent sites? They have 2 cabins to rent. And the rest is RVs," notes a visitor to Oxbow Campground. Reservations are essential for tent campers, especially during peak season from June through August.
Additional fees: Some campgrounds charge extra for pets, internet access, or out-of-state residents. "There's an extra $5 charge per day per dog. I haven't seen this very much at any of the other campgrounds that I've been to," mentions a reviewer at The Pine Campground, while another noted, "They charge for EVERYTHING (internet $10 per device)" at Friendly Beaver Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Pool-focused campgrounds: Friendly Beaver Campground offers extensive water recreation. "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," writes a visitor whose children enjoyed the facilities.
Playground proximity: Consider site location relative to play areas. "Site 93 is so close to the playground and the fire ring placement makes it seem like families enjoying the playground will be tempted to walk through your site," warns a camper at Bear Brook State Park Campground. Sites near but not immediately adjacent to playgrounds provide convenience without disruption.
Pet restrictions: While many campgrounds allow pets, state parks often have seasonal limitations. "NH state parks are anti-dog I guess," notes a frustrated visitor to Pawtuckaway State Park Campground who discovered that "they don't allow dogs anywhere in the campground during summer months."
Tips from RVers
Narrow roads: Several campgrounds feature tight access roads requiring careful navigation. "The roads are very narrow. Made it hard to back in our spot," mentions a visitor to Cold Springs Camp Resort. RVers should call ahead to confirm site dimensions and turning radius requirements.
Hookup locations: At The Pine Campground, some sites require extra equipment. "Staff assisted to guide us into our space. 25' travel trailer, full hookups. Lot 6 backs onto a little creek," mentions an RVer who appreciated the guidance when positioning their trailer to reach connections.
Seasonal atmosphere: Many campgrounds have primarily seasonal residents. "99% Seasonable Sites. It's an underfunded trailer park," notes a dissatisfied visitor to Friendly Beaver Campground. For glamping close to New Ipswich, New Hampshire, weekend visitors might prefer locations with more transient sites for a traditional camping atmosphere.
