Located along the Connecticut River in western New Hampshire, Piermont sits between the foothills of the White Mountains and the Vermont border. The area ranges from 407 feet above sea level along the river to over 2,000 feet at the surrounding hills, creating diverse camping conditions. Fall camping temperatures can drop below freezing at night, while summer daytime temperatures typically range from 75-85°F with frequent afternoon thunderstorms.
What to do
Hiking to local ponds: From Ricker Pond State Park Campground in nearby Vermont, access multiple trails through Groton State Forest. "If you're looking for easy to strenuous hikes that can be accessed from one place, this is the spot! You can access at least 6 of the NH48 from this campground, numerous waterfalls, two AMC huts, and several ponds and lakes all within hiking distance," explains a hiker who stayed at a similar campground in the region.
Water activities on calm ponds: Many campgrounds offer paddling opportunities away from motorized boats. "The pond is serene and a great place to swim, paddle, explore, and fish. If you paddle or swim to the other side of the camp ground, there is a huge rock with a rope swing," shares a camper at Ricker Pond State Park.
Winter camping options: Unlike many seasonal campgrounds, Hancock Campground remains open year-round. "Stayed here for two nights in late December. Site #40 along the river was close to the bathroom yet had plenty of privacy from other sites," notes one winter camper. Temperatures frequently drop below zero during winter months, requiring proper cold-weather gear.
What campers like
Riverfront tent sites: Many campers specifically seek out water-adjacent sites. At Pine Haven, a camper reports, "Loved our time here! We had a site right on the river and the view was amazing. The sites are pretty well spaced apart and well kept." The campground is located about 18 miles from Piermont.
Unplugged atmosphere: Cell service is limited throughout the camping areas near Piermont. "There is absolutely no cell service for miles, so plan accordingly," notes a visitor to Ricker Pond State Park. This creates a truly disconnected camping experience that many visitors appreciate.
Large, wooded sites: White Mountain National Forest Wildwood Campground receives consistent praise for spacious sites. "This past week we stayed here as a family on site #9. Had 2 cars and a dog. Can't beat the price at $20 a night. Sites are relatively spread out so they do offer some privacy and you don't feel too close to the neighbors," shares a recent camper. Most forest service sites around Piermont range from $18-25 per night.
What you should know
Seasonal operation limitations: Most campgrounds operate from mid-May through mid-October with specific opening dates. "Pine Haven" operates from "May 15 to October 15," while other campgrounds like Lafayette Place Campground run from "May 17 to October 15."
Road noise impacts: Traffic can disrupt otherwise peaceful settings at several campgrounds. "However, the noise from Highway 93 is intolerable! 18-wheelers blowing by at all hours of the day and night, making it very difficult to enjoy a restful sleep," reports a camper at Lafayette Place Campground. Sites further from main roads generally offer more peace.
Insect considerations: Bees and other insects can be problematic at certain times. One camper at Hancock Campground noted: "Our site was completely swarmed with bees. We checked a few vacant sites to see if maybe it was just our site, but we found them all around, including all over the cars in the lot."
Tips for camping with families
Water play opportunities: River Meadow Campground in North Haverhill offers river access about 10 miles from Piermont. "My family loves this campground last 4th of July week. It's right on the CT river and they have canoes to rent. My friend and I took my son fishing and we landed some nice size fish big enough it scared my 7 year old son and he made me real it in haha," shares an enthusiastic parent.
Look for organized activities: Family-oriented campgrounds offer structured entertainment. A camper at Moose Hillock Camping Resort noted, "This campground was clean, nice sites, private, amenities galore, friendly staff and AMAZING pool!!!!! Will definitely be back annually." However, another points out, "Little to no activities for kiddos. The pool is the main attraction and really great but gets very very busy."
Consider site location carefully: Families should check site placement on campground maps. "The playground is across this busy road which I find very dangerous IMO," warns a parent at Lost River Valley Campground. Sites near facilities reduce walking distances for children but may have more foot traffic.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations to consider: Many campgrounds in the Piermont area have restrictions for larger rigs. Lafayette Place Campground is marked as "NO big-rig-friendly" while others like Jacobs Brook Campground offer limited large-site availability.
Terrain challenges: Many campgrounds have hilly approaches to sites. A camper at Moose Hillock notes, "The campground is very hilly and kids are ripping around in pedal and motorized bikes and scooters which is fine but no control at all in regards to speed and helmets." RVers should call ahead to discuss specific site grades and access.
Limited hookup availability: Only select campgrounds offer full hookups. When available, electrical service ranges from 15-50 amp depending on the campground, with water and sewer connections varying by site. Reserve well in advance for premium hookup sites, especially during peak summer months.
