Best Campgrounds near Newbury, NH
The Newbury, New Hampshire region features several established campgrounds offering diverse experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. Pillsbury State Park Campground stands out as a more primitive option with tent and RV sites accessible by boat, drive-in, or walk-in methods. Approximately 15 miles west of Newbury, Newport hosts multiple developed campgrounds including Crow's Nest and Northstar Campground, which provide amenities ranging from basic tent sites to full-service RV hookups. Several campgrounds in the area also offer cabin rentals and glamping options for those seeking more comfortable accommodations.
Most campgrounds in the Newbury area operate seasonally from May through mid-October, with specific opening and closing dates varying by location. "Pillsbury is called a 'primitive' campground which means no showers or electric hookups. Most of the campsites are accessible by car with space to park a car or two at the campsite. Many campsites are on the lake," noted one visitor. Cell service can be limited at more remote locations like Pillsbury State Park, where Verizon users report spotty coverage. Campgrounds closer to Newport tend to offer more amenities including showers, flush toilets, and camp stores, while state park facilities typically provide more basic services with pit toilets and water spigots. Advance reservations are recommended, especially for weekend stays during peak summer months.
Waterfront access represents a significant draw for campers in the region. Pillsbury State Park features sites positioned around a scenic lake ideal for paddling, with canoe and kayak rentals available on-site. One camper described it as "a jewel! Quiet, beautiful small lake/pond great for paddling." Riverside sites at Crow's Nest and Northstar campgrounds offer another water-oriented experience, though several reviews mention these waterfront sites tend to have less privacy than wooded areas. Family-friendly amenities vary significantly between campgrounds, with more developed private campgrounds offering swimming pools, organized activities, and camp stores, while state park locations emphasize natural experiences with hiking trails, fishing opportunities, and connections to regional trail networks like the Monadnock-Sunapee Greenway, a 51-mile trail linking Mount Monadnock with Mount Sunapee.
