Tent campsites near Nottingham, New Hampshire provide access to forests and water bodies within New Hampshire's granite terrain. Average summer temperatures range from 55°F at night to 84°F during the day, with spring and fall offering cooler temperatures but more variable weather patterns. Many camping areas in the region are situated between 300-600 feet in elevation, providing natural drainage during heavy rains.
What to do
Beach access: Sun Outdoors Saco Old Orchard Beach offers shuttle service to Old Orchard Beach during summer months. "There is a trolley that takes you to the beach which is convenient," notes a visitor, who also recommends exploring "Rachael Carson National Wildlife Refuge" with its "trails that wind through the marsh with some beautiful views (and dog-friendly)."
Water recreation: At nearby ponds and lakes, fishing and paddling opportunities abound. "If you like to paddle, head to the Saco River Marsh. Here you can put in your own boats or rent some and paddle through beautiful marsh – just watch the tides," advises one camper.
Hiking options: Several trail networks exist within 15 miles of Nottingham. Camp Nihan Education Center connects to adjacent conservation land with multiple trail difficulties. As one visitor notes, the camp is "adjacent to Breakheart Reservation, which had a great shallow pond with life guard on duty as well as bike trails and a range of different hikes."
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: Lost Boys Hideout offers walk-in tent sites with basic amenities. A camper mentions recent improvements: "Nice new tents provided at Sleepy Hollow site. Improvements to the firepit, area all mulched, even some games and water are provided!"
Wooded settings: Many campers appreciate the natural surroundings at Cape Ann Camp Site, where "sites are nice and wooded. All size RVs and tents are welcome." Another reviewer noted the camp's natural features: "Cape Anne Campground is located close to Gloucester and Rockport. The campground is clean and quiet with beautiful tent sites."
Bathroom facilities: Campground facilities vary widely in the region. One camper mentioned that Cape Ann Camp Site has "clean Bathrooms and pay showers (5 cents)," while another noted at Sun Outdoors, "the bathrooms and grounds were very clean" and that "there were many options for different size cabins some with their own bathrooms/showers."
What you should know
Shower access: Most established campgrounds charge for showers. At Cape Ann Camp Site, "25 cents per 5 minute hot shower is offered in the public restroom." Other campgrounds may require quarters, so bring change if planning to shower.
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds in the region operate from May through October. According to one camper at Huttopia Southern Maine, the season runs "Mother's Day to Columbus Day," which is typical for the area.
Site privacy: Privacy levels vary significantly between and within campgrounds. One camper noted at Viewland Campground that many sites have "campers that had been on this property permanently, several of which had porches attached or additional rooms built on the side," creating a more residential feeling than traditional camping.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly facilities: Several campgrounds specifically cater to families with children. At Sun Outdoors Saco Old Orchard Beach, "the playground/pool was nice and the Maine blueberry pancakes were amazing! There was a trolley to the beach but lots to do at the campground too."
Water features: Salmon Falls River RV Resort offers multiple water attractions. One visitor called it "Kids Paradise" noting "Multiple pools, a water slide, high ropes, a jump pad, mini golf and more!!! My niece had so much fun!"
Scheduled activities: Many campgrounds offer organized activities for children. A camper at Sun Outdoors mentioned, "Kid activities were done regularly. Pizza and breakfast is very good if you don't want to cook. Outdoor movies were fun."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Most RV sites in the region require minimal leveling. At Salmon Falls River RV Resort, "Campsites are level and site is fairly easy to maneuver with bigger rigs." This is particularly important for larger motorhomes and travel trailers.
Utility hookups: While most established campgrounds offer water and electric hookups, sewer connections are less common. One RVer at Cape Ann Camp Site noted they had "water, sewer, and electric hookups. No wifi," which represents the higher end of available amenities in the area.
Access roads: Many campground access roads in the region can be challenging. One camper warned that "The road to get to Viewland Campground is very steep. The campground loop is a one-way loop that is not easily marked. The road was very narrow," which can be important information for drivers of larger RVs.
