Tent camping opportunities near Pelham, New Hampshire exist within a 45-mile radius, with options in both Massachusetts and southern New Hampshire. This region features rolling hills, small lakes, and mixed hardwood forests that create varied camping environments across seasons. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing from December through February, making May through October the primary camping season for tent campers.
What to do
Paddle on Tully Lake: Explore the numerous islands and shoreline at Tully Lake Recreation Area in Royalston, MA, located about 45 miles west of Pelham. "We rented kayaks right at the campground for a paddle around Tully Lake. Great trip!" notes Megan G. Canoes and kayaks are available for rent directly at the campground.
Explore waterfalls: Visit Doane's Falls near Tully Lake, accessible via a short hiking path. "If you'd like to hike with children, there is an easy hike close to the entrance, along Doane's Falls, a series of 5 waterfalls along an ascending path through a wooded area," reports Nancy R. The falls are within walking distance of the campground and provide opportunities for photography.
Visit Boston Harbor Islands: Take a ferry from Hingham or Boston to camp at Boston Harbor Islands State Park Campground, where you can explore historic forts and multiple islands. "You can build bon fires and see gorgeous sunsets. During the day you can take small ferries to a variety of other islands to go swimming or explore," shares Martha H. Ferry tickets cost around $20 round-trip with family pack discounts available.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Cape Ann Camp Site in Gloucester offers secluded tent camping about 40 miles southeast of Pelham. "It doesn't look like much but it is absolutely lovely when you actually pull in! We had a nice perfectly level site in a beautiful wooded area," reports Cristina P. Sites feature natural vegetation that creates privacy barriers between campsites.
Beach access: Cape Ann Camp Site provides access to nearby beaches. "Beach down the street was big, beautiful and low tide was unexpected as you could walk for ever," writes Ron C. The campground is approximately 1.5 miles from the nearest beach, making it an easy day trip for campers.
Family-friendly amenities: Salmon Falls River RV Resort in Lebanon, ME offers extensive recreation facilities about 40 miles northeast of Pelham. "Multiple pools, a water slide, high ropes, a jump pad, mini golf and more!!! My niece had so much fun!" shares Samantha N. Daily activities for children are scheduled throughout the summer season.
What you should know
Cart-in camping: Many tent sites at Tully Lake require equipment transportation from parking areas. "You park at the entrance, register with Ranger. Large wooden wheelbarrows are provided to bring your gear to your camp site," explains Nancy R. Site distances range from 50 yards to nearly a mile from parking.
Limited facilities: Some campgrounds near Pelham have minimal services. At Camp Nihan Education Center, facilities are basic but functional. "A recently renovated bathroom and shower facility makes clean ups easy," notes Michael V. The camp is located less than 30 minutes from Boston.
Weather considerations: Spring camping can be muddy and fall brings cooler nights. "Very nice folks, great sites with A LOT of space between them. Spectacular views and wild turkeys, deer, etc.," reports John S. about Cape Ann Camp Site. Campers should pack extra layers for overnight temperatures that can drop into the 40s even in summer.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with terrain variety: Camp Nihan provides an ideal balance of convenience and wilderness. "The 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," shares Michael V. This setup allows parents to keep gear accessible while giving children an authentic outdoor experience.
Look for swimming options: Sites with water access provide built-in entertainment. "We take our canoe and spend the whole day at the lake. You can find lots of private areas to swim, pick blueberries and relax," writes Ben P. about Tully Lake. Swimming areas without lifeguards require parental supervision.
Consider distance to bathrooms: At some campgrounds, bathroom facilities are centralized. "Our site was fairly far from services, long run with small kids in the middle of the night," notes Lauren A. about Tully Lake. When booking, check facility maps to select sites closer to restrooms when camping with young children.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most tent-focused campgrounds near Pelham have limited RV accommodations. At Cape Ann Camp Site, "The RV sites are not as secluded as the tent sites," according to Della S. RV sites typically lack the privacy of tent-only areas due to vegetation clearing requirements.
Hookup availability: Military Park New Boston Recreation Area offers year-round camping but lacks utility connections. For full hookups, Cape Ann Camp Site provides "water, sewer, and electric hookups. No wifi," according to Lajaun C. Sites with hookups typically cost $60-70 per night in this region.
