Pittsburg, New Hampshire sits in the Connecticut Lakes Region at elevations ranging from 1,300 to 2,670 feet, creating a cooler climate than southern parts of the state. The region receives approximately 100 inches of snow annually, with summer temperatures typically reaching the mid-70s. Camping season generally runs from late May through mid-October, with peak moose viewing opportunities occurring during early summer and fall.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Little Diamond Pond at Coleman State Park Campground offers excellent brook trout fishing. "Great pond for fly fishing, eagle watching, etc. ATV traffic can be a little annoying, but otherwise quiet. Not close to shopping," notes Josh F. The park also rents kayaks and paddle boats for anglers seeking access to different areas.
Birdwatching excursions: The region hosts numerous bird species. At Deer Mountain Campground, Elisabeth E. shares: "I was shocked to find Deer Mountain mostly empty in the middle of summer... 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." Morning and evening provide optimal viewing times.
ATV trail access: Multiple campgrounds connect directly to the extensive trail network. "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 Jim O. from Lake Francis State Park Campground. Riders should respect quiet hours between 10pm and 7am.
What campers like
Remote wilderness setting: The region's isolation creates a peaceful camping experience. Justin P. describes Deer Mountain Campground: "Site 28 is walk-in but looked secluded and spectacular with a pond view. Site 26 is also a brief hike with the tent platform right off a gentle stretch of the stream." These sites require carrying gear approximately half a mile but reward with privacy.
Clean facilities: Despite the remote location, campgrounds maintain good facilities. At Lake Francis State Park Campground, Dana M. shares: "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!!" The campground offers a dish washing station with hot water.
Water access: Many sites feature direct water access. Justin P. recalls: "I stopped here along a Cohos Trail thru-hike with a reservation. I had pre-booked campsite 41 and it did not disappoint, with a tent platform right off the water with great views, and a short walk up to the facilities." Most waterfront sites fill quickly during summer weekends.
What you should know
Weather preparedness: Being in northern New Hampshire means unpredictable weather patterns year-round. Alicia B. from Deer Mountain Campground reports: "We weren't expecting a cold spell this late in May, but Mother Nature had her own plans! Even with the surprise chill, we had such a wonderful time at our campsite nestled along Moose Alley." Pack extra layers even during summer months.
Limited services: The remote location means fewer conveniences. "Make sure you are well provisioned before arriving, there are no supplies nearby," advises Kevin W. about Aziscoos Valley Camping Area. The closest full-service grocery store is in Colebrook, approximately 30 minutes from most Pittsburg campgrounds.
Cell coverage limitations: Service varies significantly by location and provider. Timothy M. notes about Coleman State Park: "There is no cell service (at least for Verizon users), but that's exactly what we wanted." Some campgrounds like Mountain View Cabins & Campground report limited coverage, while others have none.
Tips for camping with families
Educational programs: Some campgrounds offer learning opportunities for children. Jessica C. shares: "My daughter had gotten more candy out of them then she know what to do with answering the daily trivia question right. Clean, great sites for the person who goes the scenery as well as those wanting to hike, fish, hunt, and more!" Check at ranger stations for scheduled activities.
Water recreation: Swimming and boating provide family entertainment. At Mollidgewock State Park Campground, Katy Z. reports: "The river was super calm so we were able to take our paddle board out and explore the waters. They have a small camp store and vault toilets but they were pretty clean." Bring water toys for kids.
Dog-friendly options: Most campgrounds near Pittsburg welcome pets with minimal restrictions. ERNIE Y. from Aziscoos Valley Camping Area says: "The grounds were extremely well kept and the showers and main restrooms were the cleanest I have seen. Our site was in an open grassy area that was visible from the road with great views of the river." Pet owners should bring leashes and waste bags.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: For dog friendly campgrounds near Pittsburg, RVers should research site specifics. Jean C. from Buck Rub's Hidden Acres Campground explains: "I had no problem making reservations online; all sites have water and electric and you can select a wooded or open site. If proximity to the ATV trail is important to you, you may select a site accordingly. Sites were large and most quite level."
Water and electric access: Many campgrounds offer hookups, though not all sites have them. Jim O. details Lake Francis options: "We stayed in site 32 (no hookups). It was a grassy site surrounded by trees and brush, so pretty private. It was not on the lake, there are about 7 RV sites right on the lake with full hookups which are great but they do not have the privacy of 32." Larger rigs should reserve well in advance.
Dump station availability: Not all campgrounds offer dump stations. Jean C. notes about Mountain View Cabins & Campground: "There'd been significant rain before/during my stay and the road to my site was quite muddy, but the site itself was dry." RVers should plan their tank capacity needs accordingly, as the nearest public dump station may be at Lake Francis State Park.
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