Campgrounds near Pittsfield, New Hampshire feature wooded sites within the Merrimack Valley region at elevations between 500-900 feet. The area experiences typical New England seasonal patterns with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping months. Most campgrounds open from mid-May through mid-October with several offering extended seasons into early November.
What to do
Hiking accessible trails: Bear Brook State Park Campground offers multiple trail networks for all skill levels. "Mountain biking trails are awesome here, can ride right off the campground and onto the trails," notes Kimberly R. The park's extensive trail system includes paths for geocaching enthusiasts, as confirmed by Jean C.: "Numerous trails call out of exploration, around ponds and up and down hills, with geocaches to be found."
Water activities beyond swimming: Pawtuckaway State Park Campground provides excellent paddling opportunities on its lake system. "This a a fantastic little camp for if you want to go canoeing or kayaking or boating of any kind! It's set up of three islands and a large majority of the campsites are right on the water," reports Matt R. The lake features multiple islands connected by water passages ideal for exploration.
Seasonal recreation options: Gunstock Campground offers activities across multiple seasons near Gilford. "They have an aerial obstacle course and a mountain coaster, places to swim, music festivals, hiking, etc.," writes Kasey H. The campground connects to the larger Gunstock Mountain resort facilities with seasonal programming throughout summer and fall.
What campers like
Secluded sites for privacy: Epsom Valley Campground offers a quiet camping experience with more private options. "My FAVORITE part was what was called the 'wilderness area'. AMAZING little tent sites! They were secluded but still had full hookups," explains Molly G. The campground provides options for both social and private camping preferences.
Clean, reliable facilities: Bear Brook maintains consistent standards for its facilities. "The bath and shower house was well maintained and a short walk from 22," reports Ellen C. Another camper, Gabby M., confirms: "I was so impressed by how well the grounds were kept and how clean the bathrooms were."
Family-oriented atmosphere: Sun River Campground caters specifically to families with children. "This family-oriented campground fosters a sense of community and camaraderie among its guests. The facilities, which include bathhouses, a laundry room, and a beach situated along a tranquil river, contribute to a harmonious and enjoyable experience for all," writes Denis V.
What you should know
Site selection matters: At Pawtuckaway, waterfront sites offer premium experiences but require advance planning. "The sites on the water book up quickly but they're perfect for fishing and boating. Also, the view!" notes J L. For maximum privacy, research specific site numbers before booking.
Seasonal restrictions: Pet policies change seasonally at several campgrounds. At Pawtuckaway, one reviewer cautions: "Tried to plan ahead this year and get a prime site to learn they don't allow dogs anywhere in the campground during summer months."
Environmental considerations: Campgrounds experience typical New England weather patterns. Site drainage becomes important during rain events, as one camper at Pawtuckaway discovered: "After a few hours of constant rain I realized the water runoff from the road above and the driveway all ended up flowing right under our tent into the lake."
Tips for camping with families
Pool access for cooling off: Granite State Campground offers swimming facilities for children. "New bath houses, New hook-ups on many sites... Boys rode around on bikes, facilities were clean, the owners have been working hard to improve this camp," shares Andrew P.
Playground options: Lazy River Family Campground provides dedicated play areas. "A nice office upon entry with nice staff and game room attached... The campground is nice and the sites are spaced out and private," notes Quinn G.
Field spaces for group activities: Bear Brook offers open spaces for games and activities. "I also liked the sites across from ours near the ball field and thought they would make a nice place for a large group of friends to pitch their tents (Sites 31, 32, 33, 34)," suggests Ellen C.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: Sun River Campground provides varying site conditions for RVs. "Pretty Happy with this Campground! Pros=rustic tent sites available on a River... the site we were on had plenty of elbow room and was spacious enough for our 12 person tent & bean bag toss game set up (site ground was a little uneven with minimal roots here & there)," notes Sara D.
Hookup reliability: Gunstock Campground offers reliable services for RVers. "Large campsites, clean amenities, nice dog park, great store with everything you need and located near like Winni," writes Ryan P. The campground regularly updates its infrastructure to maintain modern standards.
Pet friendly RV options: For those seeking pet friendly camping near Pittsfield, New Hampshire, campgrounds offer varying policies. "I travel with dogs. Didn't check out facilities other than bathrooms (clean and convenient). Like it very much for the kind of use I need," explains Paula W. about her experience at Bear Brook.
