Glamping options close to Rindge, New Hampshire range from basic to upscale forest accommodations at elevations between 1,000-1,500 feet. The region features dense woodlands surrounding numerous lakes and ponds, creating diverse camping environments. Cold weather can arrive early in fall with nighttime temperatures dropping below 45°F by late September at many campgrounds.
What to do
Water activities at Lake Dennison: Located near Otter River State Forest, this lake offers additional swimming opportunities beyond the main campground area. "Swimming in a pond or a short drive to a bigger lake (camping pass covers both). One of my favorites. It's kind of a hidden gem in north central Massachusetts," notes Lori-Ann D. at Otter River State Forest.
River tubing: The Ashuelot River provides gentle currents ideal for relaxation. As Karen O. mentions at Ashuelot River Campground, "Make sure to bring tubes for relaxing on the river. We brought our kayaks and had no problem kayaking on the flat surface river."
Geocaching adventures: Several state forests offer geocaching opportunities beyond traditional hiking. At Willard Brook State Forest, visitors can access trail connections to Pearl Hill State Park. One camper at Willard Brook State Forest Campground shares, "The trails in the park are nice and well maintained. The larger pond has a nice beach and picnic area."
Wildlife observation: The region supports diverse wildlife including occasional bald eagles. Michael M. at Ashuelot River Campground reports, "Beautiful river to float down or paddle up. Saw a bald eagle this past weekend while paddling up past the campground."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Consistent maintenance is frequently mentioned across multiple campgrounds. Jamal C. at Otter River notes, "The camp ground is clean nice with lots of trails for hiking and biking. The bathrooms were clean and water was easy close to the camp ground."
Quieter campground options: For those seeking less crowded alternatives to glamping close to Rindge, New Hampshire, several smaller campgrounds provide tranquil settings. Anna B. at Otter River State Forest shares, "So clean, quiet, friendly staff, great trails and lots of exploring and lounging by the fire."
Fall camping opportunities: Several campgrounds near Rindge operate until mid-October. Jean C. describes the Erving State Forest experience: "Sites are large, wooded, generally level. It was quiet with a lot of families. I took site pictures, but for the closed sites, the numbers were not posted."
Diverse site options: Campgrounds offer various site layouts for different preferences. "Sites that are near the small pond are generally larger and have better space for pitching a tent. The sites on the first two loops/spur roads are smaller and most of them are designated for tents only or tents/popups," notes Jean C. about Otter River.
What you should know
Off-grid experiences: Cell service can be limited in forested areas. Tim S. at Erving State Forest Campground warns, "There is also zero cell service (there is an operational pay phone at the showers) which is fine... but wished we knew ahead of time."
Site selection matters: Some campgrounds have significant site variability. At Otter River, sites 65, 67, and 68 are walk-in sites with tent areas closer to water. Jean C. advises, "Site 33 is large and level, suitable for an RV, but Group B site is right behind it, which may or may not be an issue."
Pricing considerations: State parks charge significantly more for out-of-state visitors. According to Jean C. at Erving State Forest, "Fees in 2020 are only $17 for MA residents, but $55 for out-of-staters."
Bathroom access: Not all campgrounds provide equal facilities. John from Willard Brook State Forest reports, "No showers and the men's restroom was a complete mess! Disgusting. For 40 US-Dollar far too expensive."
Tips for camping with families
Pool variety for different ages: Some campgrounds offer specialized pools for various age groups. Kara C. at Cold Springs Camp Resort explains, "Very family centric, 7 pools which include 2 hot tubs, a small 2x2 pool for kiddos, 1 adult only pool and 3 family pools."
Kid-friendly activities: Organized events keep children entertained. Sara D. at Cold Springs Camp Resort shares, "So many amenities, you just couldn't get bored if you tried to. Beautiful, extremely clean bathrooms, reasonably priced little cafe, big camp store, very friendly staff."
Fishing opportunities for children: Some campgrounds stock ponds specifically for youth fishing. One visitor to Oxbow Campground observed, "There was a family with several smaller children who were fishing the pond. It was so cute to hear them squeal with glee when they caught a fish."
Seasonal activities: Special themed weekends provide additional entertainment. Kara C. notes, "We went for halloween weekend in August and their haunted house was incredible for a campground!"
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Many campgrounds have limited space for larger RVs. Taylor H. at Autumn Hills Campground cautions, "Sites are very small, and extremely close together. My 28 foot travel trailer barely fit into the site, and our friends in the tent sites were basically on top of each other."
Navigation challenges: Narrow roads can make maneuvering difficult in some campgrounds. Kara C. mentions about Cold Springs, "Nicely landscaped although the roads are very narrow. Made it hard to back in our spot."
Dump station locations: Some campgrounds share facilities with nearby locations. Jean C. notes about Otter River State Forest, "Dump station and additional swimming/water activities are a little farther down the road at Lake Dennison."
Covered bridge warnings: Low clearance bridges can block RV access. John L. advises about approaching Ashuelot River Campground, "Follow the website directions to get here as there are covered bridges in the area with low clearance and low weight limits."
