Luxury accommodations paired with natural settings characterize glamping close to Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Located along New Hampshire's short 18-mile coastline, the Portsmouth region offers a temperate climate with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F. Most glamping sites in the area are open from May through mid-October, with several parks offering extended shoulder season accommodations during mild weather.
What to do
Hiking trails and scenic spots: Bear Brook State Park Campground features numerous trails through its 10,000-acre forest preserve. "There are some spectacular views of the lake and mountains from many sites. The bathrooms were moderately clean," notes Kris M. The park has both mountain biking and hiking trails, with some allowing horses.
Water activities beyond the beach: Pawtuckaway State Park Campground offers water-based recreation about 40 minutes from Portsmouth. One visitor reports, "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." Rental equipment is available on-site.
Seasonal activities: Winter glamping options remain limited, but fall foliage viewing from late September through mid-October brings colorful landscapes. "We stayed here twice, once in September 2013 and then again in September 2018 and it is one of my favorites," writes Ellen C. about Pawtuckaway State Park, noting the fall colors enhance water views from many campsites.
What campers like
Privacy options: Wakeda Campground receives praise for site layout. "We were overwhelmed by the beautiful massive forest. The campground was splendid with old tall, pine trees everywhere," writes Pawsfuradventure T. Sites vary in seclusion level, with some tent areas more secluded than others.
Clean facilities: Sea Coast Camping and RV Resort maintains high standards according to Jeff P., who noted: "The washer/dryer setup is immaculate with brand new equipment. Small washer $3.25, big washer $4.25, dryers $2 for 45 minutes." Another visitor reports, "This campground is top-notch. The wifi worked perfectly for steaming tv despite the campground being fully booked."
Pond views: Waterfront glamping sites at many locations offer direct water access. "The sites on the water book up quickly but they're perfect for fishing and boating. Also, the view!" shares J L. about Pawtuckaway. These premium water sites typically cost $10-15 more per night than standard sites.
What you should know
Site variations matter: Research specific site numbers when booking. "Each site is equipped with a picnic table and fire pit as an added bonus," notes Anna C., but also advises, "Definitely do your research on the different site numbers because some sites are much more private and scenic than others."
Seasonal campground schedules: Most glamping operations run May through October. Wakeda Campground operates May 15 to October 1, while The Pines Camping Area has a slightly longer season from April 1 to Columbus Day. Off-season camping is limited throughout the region.
Seasonal popularity: Summer weekends book quickly. "The location is great being 10 minutes or so from Hampton beach. Lots of little farms in the area too," notes one visitor about the Wakeda area, which tends to fill first during peak season.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Winding River Campground offers family amenities within 15 minutes of Portsmouth. "We had a great time here camping with our kids and grandkids. River is not much to look at but the pool was great and there were great events like foam parties, DJ at the pool, pancake breakfast and live music," shares Lisa H.
Nature education: Many local campgrounds offer wildlife viewing opportunities. "Walking around we saw wild turkeys, bunnies, and a hummingbird," notes one visitor at Wakeda, where pine forests create habitat for local wildlife.
Weather preparation: The coastal location means unpredictable weather patterns. As one camper learned during a rainy trip: "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." Choose elevated sites during rainy periods.
Tips from RVers
Full hookups available: Most glamping sites near Portsmouth offer complete amenities. "Our site (#124) was one of the new sites which they had just completed. It was a gravel back-in which was plenty long and level," writes Nancy W. about The Pines Camping Area, noting access to essential RV services.
Tight turns in some campgrounds: Narrow access roads can challenge larger rigs. "I had to be careful to swing wide at the corner," notes one reviewer about maneuvering even a small trailer. Request pull-through sites when available for easier access.
Distance to attractions: Most glamping sites require short drives to beaches. "Great access to beaches, numerous eateries and shopping minutes away," shares Chuck H., noting that most coastal attractions require 10-15 minute drives from glamping sites.
