Tent camping options surrounding Newbury, New Hampshire extend beyond established campgrounds into various backcountry opportunities throughout the region. Located in the Dartmouth-Lake Sunapee region at approximately 1,400 feet elevation, the area experiences typical New England seasonal variations with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F during peak camping months. Winter conditions make most tent camping impractical from November through April, with occasional early spring and late fall snowfalls affecting accessibility.
What to do
Hike Mount Cardigan: Cardigan Campsites provides an ideal basecamp for tackling this moderate peak climb. "Great spot to spend the night before a climb of Mt. Cardigan! The climb is challenging but shouldn't take too long. Great fire tower views at the top too!" notes Madison G. from Cardigan Campsites.
Fish the Baker River: For anglers, the Baker River offers accessible fishing spots with camp-adjacent access. "Around the campground there was a little beach along the Baker river. I only caught a few minnows when fishing but that may have been more to do with the angler," reports Justin P. from Baker Rocks.
Long-distance hiking: Section hiking on the Appalachian Trail provides multi-day opportunities with shelter stops. "I stopped here on a section hike of the Appalachian trail. The shelter is on the larger side and could fit maybe 6-8 folks," explains a hiker at Winturri Backcountry Shelter, one of several AT shelters within day-hiking distance of Newbury.
What campers like
Improved tent platforms: Several campgrounds offer elevated camping surfaces. "The site had a large tent platform they could fit multiple tents, a brand new picnic table, a fire ring (with a free bundle of firewood), two chairs by the fire ring, and even a few strings of solar lights around the camp area," reports Justin about his stay at Baker Rocks.
Secluded wooded sites: Lost Boys Hideout offers tent camping with recent improvements. "Nice new tents provided at Sleepy Hollow site. Improvements to the firepit, area all mulched, even some games and water are provided!" mentions Steve K.
Seasonal amenities: Many sites have improved their offerings since established. "The privvy was also new and very spacious," notes Justin P. about Moose Mountain Backcountry Shelter, which stands out with "a bench overlooking a clearing in the brush with a view which was a great place to enjoy my freeze dried dinner."
What you should know
Water availability challenges: Backcountry water sources can be unreliable in late summer. "The water source here was dry during my trip which was expected during the drought (August 2022)," reports Justin P. about Velvet Rocks Shelter. Carry extra water or reliable filtration devices.
Seasonal openings vary: Most established campgrounds operate from Memorial Day weekend through early October, with weather determining exact dates. Sunapee State Park Campground specifically runs from May 26 to October 8, while Military Park New Boston operates year-round.
Insect preparation essential: Bugs can be problematic throughout the region. "Do bring bug spray, the mosquitoes at certain times of day were aggressive, as to be expected," advises April W. about her stay at Baker Rocks.
Tips for camping with families
Consider glamping options: Several sites offer family-friendly alternatives to traditional tenting. "We stayed 2 nights in the double bell tent with two clean full size beds and a 3rd night in the yurt both were spacious and wonderful, among tall trees and pines," shares April W. about Baker Rocks.
Animal encounters: Some campgrounds offer controlled wildlife interactions. "They even have animals to visit like bunnies and goats (far away from the campsites)," mentions April W., making Baker Rocks appealing for families with animal-loving children.
Bathroom accessibility: When camping with children, bathroom facilities matter. "There is a full bathhouse with individual rooms for showers and sink/toilets, with running water," notes Justin P. about Baker Rocks, providing family-friendly facilities uncommon at more primitive sites.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: The best tent camping near Newbury, New Hampshire rarely accommodates larger RVs. Most sites cater exclusively to tent camping or small camper vans. Sweetwater offers some glamping options that might suit RV campers seeking alternatives.
Fire restrictions vary: Fire policies differ significantly between established campgrounds and backcountry sites. "The tent sites are within the wooded area around the property and felt very secluded. There was a bit of road noise overnight," notes Justin P., highlighting that even secluded sites may have environmental factors affecting camping quality.
