Camping options near Plaistow, New Hampshire span across southern New Hampshire and into northeastern Massachusetts. The region features a mix of state parks and private campgrounds within a 30-minute drive radius, most at elevations under 500 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F with moderate humidity, while spring and fall camping seasons offer cooler conditions with lows sometimes dropping to 40°F in May and October.
What to do
Hiking and mountain biking trails: Bear Brook State Park Campground offers extensive trails across its 10,000-acre forest preserve. A camper noted, "Mountain biking is awesome here, can ride right off the campground and onto the trails!" The park features multiple trail difficulty levels with routes around ponds and up to a fire tower.
Water recreation opportunities: For kayaking and canoeing, Pawtuckaway State Park Campground provides exceptional opportunities. "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," shares one visitor. The park rents boats during summer months.
Golfing while camping: Hidden Valley RV and Golf Park combines camping with golf access. "The main attraction of this campground is the golf course of 9 or 18 holes. There is a pro shop, golf cart rentals, etc." The 1300-acre property features both a golf course and camping area with greens fees available for campers.
What campers like
Spacious wooded sites: Many campers appreciate the privacy offered at Wakeda Campground. "We were overwhelmed by the beautiful massive forest. The campground was splendid with old tall, pine trees everywhere," explains one camper. Sites are separated with natural boundaries and offer good shade coverage.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the cleanliness at Sea Coast Camping and RV Resort. "This is one of the cleanest, most meticulously maintained campground we have been to. So quiet and peaceful as well," notes a reviewer. Their new laundry facilities receive particular praise: "The washer/dryer setup is immaculate with brand new equipment."
Water access sites: Waterfront sites at Pawtuckaway State Park Campground are highly sought after. "The sites on the water book up quickly but they're perfect for fishing and boating. Also, the view!" A different camper adds that the sunrise views from waterfront sites are exceptional, noting "If possible, reserve those to ensure the best spots (the sunrise!)."
What you should know
Tent site variability: Tent sites at Tuxbury Pond RV Campground have minimal privacy. A camper reports, "The tent sites are way too close to each other...no privacy at all, and lots of noise at night from kids staying in RVs, screaming until 11pm." Consider weekday visits for quieter conditions.
Early reservations needed: For glamping close to Plaistow, New Hampshire, advance planning is essential. At Bear Brook State Park, a visitor recommended, "Definitely do your research on the different site numbers because some sites are much more private and scenic than others." Waterfront sites typically book 3-6 months in advance.
Off-season considerations: Some facilities close during shoulder seasons. "On Friday afternoon from about 1pm til 5 the ranger station was closed, so we couldn't check in or get wood," reported a camper at Bear Brook State Park Campground. Bathhouse availability may be limited in early May and late October.
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Winding River Campground offers multiple play areas for children. "Two playgrounds, both were nice. Water slide was fun," mentions a visitor. The campground also schedules family-oriented activities during summer weekends.
Swimming areas: Swimming options vary by location. At The Pines Camping Area, one family noted, "The playground is perfect for kids, the creek is right behind you which gave us beautiful views right outside our RV window(s)." Many sites here back up to water features.
Bug protection: Insect repellent is essential, especially in wooded areas. "The con of this camp ground was the misquote, we went through 3 deep woods cans in just the first night. They were crazy and kids were eaten alive," warns a visitor to The Pines Camping Area. Early summer typically has the highest mosquito activity.
Tips from RVers
Site hookup configurations: At some campgrounds, hookup placement can be challenging. A visitor to Hidden Valley noted, "The water and electric were between our site and the next on one side and sewer between our site and the one on the other side. This made it difficult to place our trailer on the slanted site and reach all services."
Off-season values: Sea Coast Camping and RV Resort offers quieter experiences during shoulder seasons. "We were there in the off-season (May) and didn't have any neighbors so it was pretty quiet," reports an RVer who paid $43/night. The campground recently added new 50-amp full hookup sites for larger rigs.
Leveling challenges: Some campgrounds in the region have uneven terrain. "The site had very long grass, bare rock and mud. It was not a site we would have wanted to stay on any longer than the one night," mentioned a reviewer at Hidden Valley, suggesting bringing extra leveling blocks for RVs.
