Campgrounds in Pittsburg, NH sit at elevations between 1,300-1,900 feet in New Hampshire's northernmost region, where summer temperatures typically average 70-75°F during the day and 50-55°F at night. The camping season runs shorter than southern New Hampshire due to the region's latitude and elevation, with many sites closing after the first significant snowfall in October. Overnight temperatures can drop below freezing well into June.
What to do
Fishing in remote ponds: The area offers excellent brook trout and landlocked salmon fishing in multiple bodies of water. "The fishing was super slow but still fun. And as others have said, the loons are quite vocal during the evening and morning hours," notes a visitor to Brighton State Park Campground.
Paddle the local waterways: Kayaking and canoeing opportunities abound on the Connecticut Lakes and nearby rivers. "I highly recommend paddling at East Inlet (30min east of the campground)," shares a camper who stayed at Lake Francis. Another visitor mentions, "Amazing fishing was also a short hike away up the Connecticut River up to the River Road covered bridge."
ATV trail riding: Many campgrounds provide direct ATV trail access. "If you are into ATV'ing, this is a great area for that as there is a large trail network and there is a large outfitter - Bear Rock Adventures- which rents ATVs less than 4 miles from the campground," explains a visitor to Lake Francis State Park Campground.
Bird watching: The region provides habitats for diverse bird species. "I was shocked to find Deer Mountain mostly empty in the middle of summer. It doesn't have the amenities of some state parks, but nearby Lake Francis SP is available for showers, etc. This is a great location for those who want to get away from the crowds and noise. There's a wide variety of birds for those who are interested," according to a visitor at Deer Mountain Campground.
What campers like
Riverside camping: Many sites offer direct water access. "The river was super calm so we were able to take our paddle board out and explore the waters," shares a visitor to Mollidgewock State Park Campground. Another camper notes, "The river is clean with a solid though slightly rocky bottom and a moderate current that is suited for wading if that is your thing and excellent for tubing."
Wildlife viewing: The region provides numerous opportunities to observe wildlife in natural settings. "We've stayed here twice. It's a very well maintained rustic campground on the Magalloway river. Some of the best brook trout and landlocked salmon fishing nearby," reports a camper at Aziscoos Valley Camping Area.
Dark skies for stargazing: Limited light pollution creates excellent stargazing conditions. "What you make up for in sparsely wooded sites, is an expansive star-studded sky. Combined with the music of the nearby rapids and the backdrop of Errol's alluring wilderness, you'll be lulled into a deep relaxation," writes a visitor to Mollidgewock State Park.
Clean facilities: Multiple campgrounds maintain high standards of cleanliness. "The amenities here are great and extremely clean. We are on a 2 week road trip so it is very nice to do some laundry!! Staff was very helpful and friendly!!" shares a Lake Francis visitor. Another camper notes, "The grounds were extremely well kept and the showers and main restrooms were the cleanest I have seen."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies significantly between campgrounds. "There IS cell service, at least with Verizon," notes a Lake Francis visitor, contrary to some expectations. However, at Coleman State Park, a camper reports it's "a great place to truly get away including zip, zero, zilch cell phone reception!"
Supply limitations: Stock up before arrival as local options are limited. "Make sure you are well provisioned before arriving, there are no supplies nearby," advises a visitor to Aziscoos Valley Camping Area. Another camper notes, "Errol does not have much in the way of grocery stores and there are apparently two restaurants but we didn't check those out."
Shower facilities: Availability varies between parks. "Bathrooms and showers are fairly new and well maintained. Hot showers are $0.25/3 minutes. I must say that I've never had a shower that felt like I was being power washed," reports a Lake Francis camper. At Coleman State Park, "The showers are very clean and nice, as well as reasonably priced in my opinion."
Insects: Be prepared for seasonal bug activity. "We went in July, tons of horse flys and mosquitos, bring spray," warns a Deer Mountain visitor. Early summer typically sees the highest insect populations, with numbers diminishing by August.
Tips for camping with families
Activities for children: Some campgrounds offer family-friendly programming. "Super friendly staff. We go the same week each year with a hoard of kids and they remember us each year. My daughter had gotten more candy out of them then she know what to do with answering the daily trivia question right," shares a Lake Francis visitor.
Water safety: Most waterfront sites have variable currents and depths. "The pond is wonderful, the sounds of loons - Magical," reports a visitor to Coleman State Park. Life jackets are recommended for all water activities, especially for children.
Sheltered options: Consider lean-tos during unpredictable weather. "Some sites have new shelters, which are nice when you camp and it's calling for rain. Easily pitch a couple four person tents or a tent and table area, off the groups and well protected in the protected deck shelter," notes a Lake Francis camper.
Wildlife education: Prepare children for wildlife encounters with proper guidelines. "Mollidgewock State Park, overlooking the Androscoggin River, is embedded in the beautiful and tranquil scenery that makes up what I would call, the moose capital of NH. My visit proved incredible as I got to experience my very first moose sighting!"
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose sites based on your specific needs. "Large campground near the all the outdoor activities in Pittsburg and surrounded by beautiful scenery just outside the grounds. There are sites in the woods and some on open lawns, all with E/W, picnic table and fire pit," reports a visitor to Buck Rub's Hidden Acres Campground.
Hookup availability: Electric and water access varies by campground. "Sites 40-42 are parallel to the road, but site 39 was off the end and I was able to back in with my trailer," notes a visitor to Mountain View Cabins & Campground. Another camper mentions, "There are RV compatible sites but there are no hookups and all the camping areas are grass."
Road conditions: Some access routes may challenge larger rigs. "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 in a passenger vehicle during poor conditions," warns a Coleman State Park visitor.
Dump station access: Plan accordingly for sanitation needs. "There is a small 'dumping station' within the campground," notes a Coleman State Park visitor. Not all area campgrounds provide this service, so confirm availability before arrival.
