Tent campsites near Newmarket, New Hampshire offer a mix of wooded settings and family-oriented facilities within a 30-mile radius. The region experiences warm summers with temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season from June through August. Most campgrounds in the area provide both primitive and developed campsites with varying levels of accessibility for different camping styles.
What to do
Water activities at Breakheart Reservation: Camp Nihan Education Center sits adjacent to Breakheart Reservation, which features "a great shallow pond with life guard on duty as well as bike trails and a range of different hikes," according to Michael V. The reservation provides accessible water recreation just minutes from your campsite.
Family-friendly entertainment: Salmon Falls River RV Resort and Family Campground includes "2 pools 2 hot tubes, a giant water slide that is even fun for the adults," as Aaron G. notes. The campground offers "multiple pools, a water slide, high ropes, a jump pad, mini golf and more," making it a complete activity center during summer months.
Beach access: Sun Outdoors Saco Old Orchard Beach provides a shuttle service to Old Orchard Beach during summer months. "There was a trolley to the beach but lots to do at the campground too," says Erin M. The area combines traditional beach activities with carnival atmosphere, about 45 minutes from Newmarket.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Many campers appreciate the natural barriers at camping areas near Newmarket. At Cape Ann Camp Site, Cristina P. found "a nice perfectly level site in a beautiful wooded area," while Dan mentioned "the camp ground is full of beautiful boulders and fire pits."
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness stands out in reviews for campgrounds in the region. Matt R. noted at Sun Outdoors Saco "clean bathrooms, friendly service," while Brittany M. added they were "the cleanest I've seen camping." This practical consideration matters for tent campers without private facilities.
Camping near attractions: Tent campers value proximity to regional attractions. Cape Ann Camp Site provides "great beach access," according to Rebecca S., while Rachel P. noted the Saco area puts you "within 20 minutes of Portland and 10 minutes to Old Orchard Beach."
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Most tent camping in the Newmarket region operates from May through mid-October. Salmon Falls River operates specifically "from May 15 - Oct 15," limiting camping opportunities during colder months.
Quarter-operated showers: Several campgrounds charge for shower use. Ben E. at Cape Ann Camp Site notes: "The showers require payment with quarters. I don't know how many quarters it takes because I don't carry change." Consider bringing quarters if staying multiple nights.
Renovation status: Some campgrounds undergo periodic upgrades. At Camp Nihan Education Center, Michael V. mentioned looking forward to when "the current renovation is done so we can go there again soon," indicating facilities may change between seasons.
Site conditions: Not all pictures represent current conditions. Kirsten J. cautioned about Viewland Campground: "As I returned to the website to double check our location, we realized the pictures had been posted in 2014," finding instead a permanent camper community rather than transient tent sites.
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-specific amenities: Some campgrounds cater specifically to families with children. At Salmon Falls River, Samantha N. emphasizes "If you have young kids this place is so fun!" with multiple recreational options designed for younger campers.
Consider walk-in accessibility: When camping with small children, site proximity to parking matters. Michael V. notes Camp Nihan's "group site is super close to parking and yet the terrain is rugged enough that it always felt like we were really in the woods," providing convenience without sacrificing the camping experience.
Check for programmed activities: Lost Boys Hideout has made "lots of new upgrades" including "even some games and water are provided," according to Steve K., offering entertainment beyond just the campsite itself. Structured activities keep children engaged during longer stays.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing varies: RV campers note significant differences in site spacing across the region. At Cape Ann Camp Site, John S. found "great sites with A LOT of space between them," while Della S. observed "The RV sites are not as secluded as the tent sites," suggesting tent campers may find more privacy at certain locations.
Consider pre-arrival arrangements: Some campground layouts present challenges for larger vehicles. At Cape Ann, Lajaun C. notes: "All size RVs and tents are welcome," but other reviewers mention narrow roads and tight turns at various facilities, making advance planning important.
