Best Campgrounds near Pittsburg, NH

Camping near Pittsburg, New Hampshire encompasses a range of remote wilderness experiences in the northernmost region of the state, just south of the Canadian border. The area is known locally as "Moose Alley" for its abundant wildlife viewing opportunities. State-managed facilities like Lake Francis State Park and Deer Mountain Campground provide established sites with varying levels of amenities, while private operations such as Buck Rub's Hidden Acres and Mountain View Cabins & Campground offer additional options. The Connecticut Lakes region provides a backdrop for camping, with multiple water bodies supporting fishing, boating, and paddling activities. As one camper noted, "Lake Francis is a nice place to go in the wilderness where it is quiet and no cell phone service at all for miles."

Most campgrounds in the Pittsburg area operate seasonally from mid-May through early November, with state parks typically closing after Columbus Day weekend. Winter conditions arrive early and stay late at this northern latitude. Summer brings warm days and cool nights, while black flies and mosquitoes can be prevalent in June and early July. Cell service is limited or non-existent throughout much of the region, with spotty Verizon coverage reported at some private campgrounds. The small general store in town, Treats & Treasures, offers Wi-Fi for those needing to connect. Fire permits are required for campfires, and firewood is available for purchase at most established campgrounds.

The camping options in Pittsburg cater to different preferences, from primitive sites to full-service facilities. Deer Mountain Campground offers a more rustic experience with outhouses and no showers, though campers can use shower facilities at nearby Lake Francis. Sites with ATV trail access are available at several campgrounds, reflecting the popularity of this activity in the region. Fishing opportunities abound in the Connecticut Lakes and rivers, with boat launches available at Lake Francis. Wildlife viewing, particularly moose watching at dawn and dusk, is a popular activity, and the Cohos Trail provides hiking opportunities that extend from the Canadian border south through New Hampshire.

Best Camping Sites Near Pittsburg, New Hampshire (98)

    1. Lake Francis State Park Campground

    15 Reviews
    Pittsburg, NH
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 538-6965

    $35 - $65 / night

    "It is a New Hampshire state campground so the prices are low and the place is very well-kept. They even have a sink with hot running water where you can wash your dishes at the main house."

    "Off the beaten path way up north in Coos country and absolutely stunning."

    2. Coleman State Park Campground

    5 Reviews
    Clarksville, NH
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 237-5382

    $35 - $195 / night

    "One of the furthest north campgrounds in New Hampshire is a great place to stay.  If you don't mind the sound of ATVs this place is great. "

    "First of all, be careful when following certain gps/google directions…depending where you are coming from, you may end up on dirt roads/ATV trails (common in this region of NH) that could be hazardous"

    3. Deer Mountain Campground

    8 Reviews
    Pittsburg, NH
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 538-6965

    $29 - $50 / night

    "These sites lack amenities, however, the primitive feel really helps you enjoy the beauties of new Hampshire, some of these sites require you to walk about half a mile into them which really adds to the"

    "Head to the last town in NH on RT.3 before you hit the Canadian border. Called "Moose Alley" the area of Pittsburg has a very rugged off the grid feel with the border close by."

    4. Buck Rub's Hidden Acres Campground

    2 Reviews
    Pittsburg, NH
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 538-6935

    $27 - $35 / night

    "Large campground near the all the outdoor activities in Pittsburg and surrounded by beautiful scenery just outside the grounds."

    "Pittsburg, NH is an area popular with those who enjoy riding ATVs, hunting, fishing, and boating and Buck Rub's Hidden Acres Campground is a nice good place to make your base with easy access to trails"

    5. Ladd Pond Cabins And Campground

    1 Review
    Clarksville, NH
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 237-9881

    $25 - $145 / night

    6. Rudys Cabins and Campground

    1 Review
    Clarksville, NH
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 246-3418

    "I stopped for one night while I was thru-hiking the Cohos Trail in New Hampshire and had a great experience."

    7. Mountain View Cabins & Cmpgrnd

    1 Review
    Pittsburg, NH
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 538-6305

    "This is a family run campground located on a hillside between Lake Francis and First Connecticut Lake in Pittsburg, NH."

    8. Mollidgewock State Park Campground

    14 Reviews
    Errol, NH
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 482-3373

    $29 - $40 / night

    "Absolutely beautiful positioning next to a river. Clean sites - many covered in grass with wildflowers which were stunning."

    "While this is close to the road, there is a good buffer of vegetation between the road and the campsites. I've camped here multiple times and never hear the road."

    9. Aziscoos Valley Camping Area

    3 Reviews
    Errol, ME
    20 miles
    Website

    $15 - $25 / night

    "Some of the best brook trout and landlocked salmon fishing nearby. Great place for canoe or kayak trips. Make sure you are well provisioned before arriving, there are no supplies nearby."

    "You can put your boat in upstream of the campground and paddle to the area or you can drive. We paddled from just upstream and continued on the following day."

    10. Brighton State Park Campground

    12 Reviews
    Island Pond, VT
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (802) 723-4360

    $20 - $50 / night

    "I usually don't camp near other people, but I really like this site. I think every site has a waterfront view."

    "We stayed in the Poplar lean-to, which was very private, with a short trail leading down to the lake. Some of the other sites are right on the water, which would have been nice too!"

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Recent Reviews near Pittsburg, NH

367 Reviews of 98 Pittsburg Campgrounds



Guide to Pittsburg

Camping near Pittsburg, New Hampshire, offers a fantastic escape into nature with beautiful landscapes and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, this area has something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the numerous trails in the area. Many campers enjoy the access to trails that lead to stunning views and natural beauty. One visitor at Dry River — Crawford Notch State Park mentioned, "Great Basecamp for lots of hikes in the area."

  • Fishing: The lakes and rivers around Pittsburg are perfect for fishing. A camper at Umbagog Lake State Park Campground shared, "You can kayak right from your campsite," highlighting the easy access to fishing spots.

  • Kayaking and Canoeing: Many campgrounds offer boat rentals or have easy access to water for kayaking. A review from Lake Francis State Park Campground noted, "There is a public boat launch," making it convenient for water activities.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. One visitor at Moose Brook State Park Campground said, "Nice small campground with very clean bathrooms and showers!"
  • Privacy: Many sites offer a sense of seclusion. A camper at Mollidgewock State Park Campground mentioned, "Most sites are grassy but a few are hard packed dirt... Many have direct access to the river."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often rave about the helpfulness of campground staff. A review from Dolly Copp Campground highlighted, "The gentleman working the office was super kind and helpful."

What you should know:

  • Reservation System: Some campers find the reservation system frustrating. A visitor at Moose Brook State Park Campground noted, "The nicest sites were reserved the entire time we were there and they were total no-shows."
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. A camper at Mollidgewock State Park Campground pointed out, "This is primitive camping, no water, no electrical, but it does have pit toilets."
  • Road Noise: Some campgrounds are close to roads, which can lead to noise. A review from Mollidgewock State Park Campground mentioned, "The main bummer was the proximity to a road -- the road noise was pretty significant."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose the Right Campsite: Look for sites that offer privacy and space for kids to play. A family at Mount Blue State Park Campground enjoyed, "Our group had the South Shelter group camping area, lakefront with small beachfront."
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities to keep everyone entertained. A camper at Lake Francis State Park Campground mentioned, "Perfect for fishing, hiking, and kayaking."
  • Pack Essentials: Bring along games and outdoor gear to keep the kids engaged. A visitor at Brighton State Park Campground noted, "The campsite itself is beautiful... Camp sites are not too close together for privacy."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Moose Brook State Park Campground mentioned, "Not great for larger RV or trailers but we found accommodation for our 27 footer."
  • Electric Hookups: Look for campgrounds that offer electric hookups if you need them. A review from Lake Francis State Park Campground highlighted, "Campsite had a fire ring with grill top, 30amp elec, and potable water."
  • Plan for Dump Stations: Know where the nearest dump station is located. A visitor at Umbagog Lake State Park Campground mentioned, "There is a dump station onsite."

Camping around Pittsburg, NH, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, whether you're in a tent, RV, or cabin. With beautiful scenery and plenty of activities, it’s a perfect spot for families and adventurers alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

What campgrounds are available in Pittsburg, NH?

Pittsburg, NH offers diverse camping options for outdoor enthusiasts. Deer Mountain Campground provides 30 well-spaced primitive sites with a true off-grid feel near the Canadian border in an area known as 'Moose Alley.' Buck Rub's Hidden Acres Campground offers both wooded and open lawn sites with electricity/water hookups, picnic tables, and fire pits. Other options include Private Field and Woods Camping for secluded nature lovers, Rudy's Cabins and Campground with RV facilities, and Lake Francis State Park Campground featuring clean, affordable sites with hot water facilities. For those seeking more remote experiences, Coleman State Park provides quieter camping opportunities. Most campgrounds in the region cater to outdoor activities like ATV riding, hunting, fishing, and boating that Pittsburg is known for.

What is the best time of year to go camping in Pittsburg, NH?

Summer through early fall (June to September) offers the best camping conditions in Pittsburg, NH. The weather is mild with comfortable temperatures perfect for outdoor activities. September provides a quieter experience after peak season with stunning fall foliage beginning to emerge. Lake Francis State Park Campground remains serene and clean during these months, while Coleman State Park Campground tends to be quieter after Labor Day. Winter camping is possible for experienced adventurers, but facilities are limited and many campgrounds close seasonally. For the best combination of good weather, accessibility, and natural beauty, aim for a late summer visit when you can enjoy water activities and hiking without the peak crowds.

Is Hidden Acres Campground in Pittsburg, NH good for tent camping?

While Buck Rub's Hidden Acres Campground primarily caters to RVs with electric/water hookups, it does accommodate tent camping. The campground offers sites in both wooded areas and open lawns, each equipped with a picnic table and fire pit. Tent campers will appreciate the plumbed bathrooms that are illuminated for nighttime use, though they are described as rustic. The campground's location is ideal, surrounded by beautiful scenery and close to Pittsburg's outdoor activities. For those seeking a more primitive tent camping experience, Private Field and Woods Camping offers a more secluded, nature-immersive option nearby. Hidden Acres works well for tent campers who prefer some amenities while still enjoying the natural surroundings of New Hampshire's northernmost region.