Rochester, New Hampshire sits at the edge of the Lakes Region with elevations ranging from 320 to 480 feet above sea level. The area experiences warm summers and cold winters, with most cabin rentals open from May through October. Camping conditions vary widely depending on elevation, with lakeside cabins providing cooler evenings even during July and August when temperatures typically reach the mid-80s during daytime.
What to do
Hiking and mountain views: Bear Brook State Park offers extensive trail systems for day hiking within its 10,000-acre preserve. "Located in a 10000 acre forest preserve, the campground is heavily forested and very secluded from civilization. The pond looked very inviting for summer time campers. I also liked the sites across from ours near the ball field," notes one camper at Bear Brook State Park Campground.
Kayaking and fishing: Many cabin locations provide direct water access for paddling and fishing. At Ayers Lake Farm Campground, visitors appreciate the peaceful setting. "Ayers lake campground in New Hampshire is a well kept secret. Small and family owned and operated, this campground offers some of the greatest vistas of a small New Hampshire pond we have seen," writes one reviewer about the Ayers Lake Farm Campground and Cottages.
Swimming beaches: Several campgrounds with cabin rentals include dedicated swimming areas. At Pawtuckaway State Park, "What a beautiful location! If you plan ahead and get a water front site it's amazing... Kayaking, swimming area and hiking were all 5 stars!" according to a visitor.
What campers like
Waterfront cabin sites: Cabins with lake views rank consistently as favorites among guests. "The sites on the water book up quickly but they're perfect for fishing and boating. Also, the view!" shares a visitor at Pawtuckaway State Park Campground.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained cabins and bathhouses matter to visitors staying near Rochester. "Bathrooms are modern and spotless. Owners on site are wonderful. The pond is tranquil and our site was right on the pond," reports a camper at Beaver Dam Campground.
Camp stores: On-site supplies save trips to town. "The small store is well stocked. You can rent kayaks here. Lots of small people powered boats on the lake," notes a Pawtuckaway visitor. Most cabin-oriented campgrounds maintain basic supplies and firewood sales.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Waterfront cabins book extremely quickly, often 6-9 months in advance, particularly for summer weekends. "We stayed here twice, once in September 2013 and then again in September 2018 and it is one of my favorites," comments a visitor about Bear Brook, indicating shoulder seasons offer better availability.
Variable electricity: Some cabins have full electrical service while others are minimalist. "We have a 50 amp unit but reduced down to 30 amp (30 was the only option). We always use a surge protector. Once the weekend campers arrived our surge protector kept tripping due to low voltage," explains a guest at Lazy Frog Campground.
Site differences: Cabin locations vary dramatically in privacy and amenities. "The cabins are nicely situated for privacy. Rustic and no AC or bathrooms but clean and nice little porch," notes one camper, while another mentions: "Sites are narrow but wooded. Bathrooms are modern and spotless."
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Family-oriented campgrounds near Rochester offer structured recreation programs. "Fun themed weekends that both the kids and adults participate in! Nice pool area where the sun hits all day! Big field area for playing games! Big pond to catch & release frogs from!" shares a visitor at Lazy Frog Campground.
Playground access: Some cabin sites sit directly next to play areas. "I'd avoid site 93 because it is so close to the playground and the fire ring placement makes it seem like families enjoying the playground will be tempted to walk through your site. If you want to be close to the play area, site 90 or the ones on the loop behind it are better options," advises a camper at Bear Brook.
Swimming options: Water features rank highly for family enjoyment. At Old Stage Campground, one visitor simply states it's "Kid. Accommodating. Family friendly. Kid infested. Safe. Scenic. Perfect."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RVers who also use cabins note important considerations for parking. "The sites were a little close and difficult to set up with more than one tent in our specific campsite," writes a visitor at Bear Brook, while another cautions "Started with really expensive sites, and we had 4 of them next to one another."
Utilities and hookups: RV travelers using cabins should check what facilities are available. "Most cabins include beds but require visitors to bring their own linens, towels, and toiletries," while at some locations "cabins are rustic and no AC or bathrooms but clean and nice little porch."
