The Nottingham area sits at the northeastern edge of New Hampshire's coastal lowlands, approximately 300-400 feet above sea level, creating diverse camping environments from lakeshores to pine forests. Cell phone coverage varies considerably throughout campgrounds near Nottingham, with ATT generally providing better service than Verizon in many locations. Water bodies and forested sites typically experience higher mosquito activity between June and August.
What to do
Canoe rentals and river exploration: At Wellington Camping Park, campers can rent canoes for exploring the Lamprey River directly from the campground. "They also rent canoes here. Nice playground, game room, laundry, showers, bathroom. We enjoyed our little stay!" reports AdventureStang.
Archery practice: Bear Brook State Park offers dedicated archery ranges for visitors to practice their skills. "There are two archery ranges and wheelchair accessible docks for fishing," notes Jean C., highlighting the variety of activities available beyond hiking and swimming.
Mountain biking trails: Bear Brook State Park Campground features extensive trail networks specifically designed for mountain biking. "The biking trails were a blast. We'll definitely be back again," writes Eammon C., while another reviewer mentions, "Mountain biking is awesome here, can ride right off the campground and onto the trails!"
What campers like
Secluded waterfront tent sites: Calef Lake Camping Area offers tent sites along water features. "Riverfront secluded areas... Located Beside a lake, The water is great for swimming, and the playground is absolutely perfect for kids and adults alike," states Alyse-Beast F.
Well-maintained facilities: Sea Coast Camping and RV Resort earns consistent praise for cleanliness. "This is one of the cleanest, most meticulously maintained campground we have been to. So quiet and peaceful as well. Wifi service was excellent," shares Rebecca S.
Seasonal activities and entertainment: Tuxbury Pond RV Campground provides ongoing entertainment during peak season. One camper describes their experience: "The live band was good & the stand up comedy was awesome... All 3 comedians were clearly aware that there was a child in the audience & one specific comedian said right from the get-go that he was going to keep it clean for his bit."
What you should know
Pet restrictions vary by season: Some state parks have seasonal restrictions for dogs. At Pawtuckaway State Park, one reviewer noted: "I went one summer on the way to Maine and loved everything! Kayaking, swimming area and hiking were all 5 stars! 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."
Check-in procedures and timing: Old Stage Campground and others may have limited office hours. One Pawtuckaway visitor noted: "On Friday afternoon from about 1pm (when we first arrived) til 5 (when we last checked) the ranger station was closed, so we couldn't check in or get wood."
Campsite selection is crucial: Site layout and privacy vary widely between and within campgrounds. At Bear Brook, a visitor observed: "Mostly level sites sit under towering pines and vary greatly in size. Many of the sites are separated from their neighbors by large, downed pine trees."
Tips for camping with families
Scout for playground proximity: When booking sites at Bear Brook, note their relation 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. If you want to be close to the play area, site 90 or the ones on the loop behind it are better options."
Separate swimming areas for dogs: Some campgrounds accommodate pets with dedicated swimming spots. At Wellington Camping Park, "They have a special beach for your dog if you're a puppy owner like me this is one of the only campgrounds that is very pet friendly," reports Alley H.
DVD rentals for rainy days: Wellington Camping Park offers a solution for inclement weather. "They also have free DVD rentals for those rainy days and some games up by the office if you have kids its also a wonderful campground," mentions Alley H.
Tips from RVers
Booking larger pull-through sites: At Sea Coast Camping, the layout considers practical concerns. "Pull through sites, while close were arranged in such a way so that you are not next to the sewer hookup of your neighbor. A big plus for me," shares Mommy D.
Water pressure and quality: When camping at Sea Coast Camping and RV Resort, visitors praise the utilities. "No issues with electric, sewer or water hookups. Some of the best clear, clean, drinking water at high pressure we have come across," according to Chuck H.
Extra care backing into sites: Some campgrounds require careful maneuvering. At Bear Brook, one camper advised: "I noticed that the little loop to my campsite was tight to exit (I was towing a 14' teardrop, not a big trailer) and I had to be careful to swing wide at the corner."
Scout
