Rustic cabin accommodations near Nottingham, New Hampshire provide simple overnight options within a short drive of Portsmouth and Manchester. Located in the southeastern region of New Hampshire at approximately 400 feet above sea level, the area features a mix of pine forests, small lakes, and river systems. Weather patterns typically include warm summers with frequent afternoon thunderstorms and cold winters with moderate snowfall.
What to do
Kayaking and canoeing on peaceful waters: Pawtuckaway State Park Campground offers excellent water access with kayak and canoe rentals available. "This a a fantastic little camp for if you want to go canoeing or kayaking or boating of any kind! It's set up of three islands and a large majority of the campsites are right on the water," notes camper Matt R.
Hiking with varied terrain: The extensive trail system at Bear Brook State Park Campground provides options for all skill levels, with trails circling ponds and traversing hills. "Numerous trails call out of exploration, around ponds and up and down hills, with geocaches to be found," explains a visitor, adding that the park also has "two archery ranges and wheelchair accessible docks for fishing."
Swimming at sandy beach areas: The park beaches offer refreshing swimming options during summer months. "There is a nice stretch of sandy beach at the campground as well as canoes and kayaks for rent," mentions a camper about Pawtuckaway. At Bear Brook, families can enjoy "the playgrounds both at the campground and at the Catamount Pond beach."
What campers like
Private waterfront sites: Wakeda Campground receives praise for its natural setting and spacious campsites. "The campground and bathrooms are kept very clean. The sites were large which was great as we had two tents at ours," writes Gabby M. Another visitor highlighted the "very secluded spots" available.
Mountain biking trails: Experienced riders appreciate the trail systems at Bear Brook State Park. "We camped here to check out the mountain bike trails in the park and weren't disappointed on either count. The campground is nice and spacious, well kept and the staff is friendly. The biking trails were a blast," shares Eammon C. Another visitor notes, "Mountain biking is awesome here, can ride right off the campground and onto the trails!"
Reasonable seclusion: Despite being relatively close to urban areas, many cabin sites and tent areas maintain a sense of privacy. "Located in a 10000 acre forest preserve, the campground is heavily forested and very secluded from civilization. We stayed on site 22, which was spacious and private from the other sites on either side," explains one camper at Bear Brook State Park.
What you should know
Summer weekends fill quickly: Advance planning is essential for cabin stays during peak season. "The sites on the water book up quickly but they're perfect for fishing and boating. Also, the view!" advises J.L. about Old Stage Campground.
Site locations vary significantly: Some areas offer more privacy than others, with considerable variation between loops and campgrounds. "Do your research on the different site numbers because some sites are much more private and scenic than others," suggests a camper at Pawtuckaway. Another notes that "Some sites are a bit too close to each other but there are some that are nice and private."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies throughout the area. At Bear Brook, "Cell phone coverage varies from 1-2 bars, not always 4G, on Verizon." At other campgrounds, service can be even more limited or nonexistent: "Forget about cellphone signal, it was 0," mentions one visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water features: Many cabin-equipped campgrounds include swimming areas appropriate for children. Barrington Shores Campground offers "a pleasure to stay in and safe with family and safe travels. All amenities were met for any type of service or recreation one could want of all ages!" according to Eddie M.
Entertainment options: Look for campgrounds with planned activities during summer weekends. "Adult bingo every Friday, DJ for kids every Saturday," notes a visitor to Exeter Elms. Another campground offers "foam parties, DJ at the pool, pancake breakfast and live music to name a few."
Playground access: Several area campgrounds feature play structures for younger visitors. One family mentioned appreciating "the playgrounds both at the campground and at the Catamount Pond beach" at Bear Brook State Park. Some sites are strategically located near these amenities, with a reviewer noting particular sites are "across the street from the playground."
Tips for RVers
Limited hookup availability: Winding River Campground offers electric sites but access varies by location. "Lower price compared to other campgrounds," notes one camper, though they cautioned to check what amenities are actually available upon arrival.
Narrow access roads: Some campgrounds have challenging entrances for larger rigs. A visitor to Bear Brook noted, "I found 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."
Parking considerations: At many campgrounds, the parking arrangement can affect site usability. "I would avoid site 93 because it 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," advises a camper about site selection at Bear Brook State Park.
