Glamping near Rochester, New Hampshire provides access to several water recreation areas within a 30-minute drive. The Salmon Falls River forms part of the border between New Hampshire and Maine, offering opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and swimming during peak summer months when temperatures typically reach the high 80s. Fall camping season brings cooler temperatures and colorful foliage, with many campgrounds extending their season through mid-October.
What to do
Water activities at multiple ponds: Pawtuckaway State Park offers canoeing and kayaking on its ponds about 25 minutes southwest of Rochester. "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," notes Matt R. Rental equipment is available seasonally.
Mountain biking on well-maintained trails: Bear Brook State Park Campground features extensive trail networks popular with cyclists. "We camped here to check out the mountain bike trails in the park and we're not disappointed on either count. Mountain biking is awesome here, can ride right off the campground and onto the trails!" says Kimberly R. The park offers over 40 miles of multi-use trails.
Fire tower hiking with views: Pawtuckaway's trail system includes routes to scenic overlooks. "Pretty serious trail up and around some mountains, to a fire tower, ponds. There are at least three campground areas, one of which is on an island and has tent sites along the water," describes Harry H. The moderate hike to the fire tower takes approximately 1-2 hours round trip.
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Pawtuckaway State Park Campground offers prime water-view camping. "What a beautiful location! If you plan ahead and get a water front site it's amazing... but all the sites are roomy and lovely to camp at! Kayaking, swimming area and hiking were all 5 stars!" shares Erin W. Waterfront sites book quickly, especially for summer weekends.
Clean, modern facilities: Beaver Dam Campground maintains well-kept bathrooms and grounds. "Bathrooms are modern and spotless. Owners on site are wonderful. The pond is tranquil and our site was right on the pond," says Pat. The campground provides coin-operated showers and dishwashing stations with hot water.
Proximity to coastal attractions: Dixons Coastal Maine Campground serves as a convenient base for exploring beaches. "This is a nice smaller campground, nice clean bathrooms, friendly staff. The location to the coastal beaches of York, Wells, Agunquit and Kennebunkport is the main reason we stayed here," explains Robert S. Most coastal beaches are within a 15-20 minute drive.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds near Rochester require advance booking, especially for premium sites. At Wakeda Campground, "Wakeda Campground overnight during a trip from Maine back to Long Island, NY. It was located very close off of 95 and allows pets. They offered electric, water, and sewer hook up, trading post that had camping goods and snacks," reports Pawsfuradventure T. Many campgrounds offer online reservation systems.
Variable site privacy: Site spacing differs significantly between and within campgrounds. "Some of the sites are a bit too close to each other but there are some that are nice and private," notes a Bear Brook visitor. Research specific site numbers before booking to ensure adequate space.
Insect preparation: Mosquitoes can be problematic, particularly near water features. "The lower portion of the campground is located in a swamp. The mosquitos were relentless," warns Chris H. about one Maine campground. Pack appropriate repellent and consider campsite location relative to standing water.
Tips for camping with families
Multiple swimming options: Beaver Dam Campground provides both pond and pool swimming. "The beach and pool are small and quiet. Baths are new and clean," notes Constance S. Most beaches include designated swimming areas with shallow entry points suitable for younger children.
Organized activities: Salmon Falls River RV Resort schedules regular entertainment. "This Campground is family friendly and has a lot to offer. Our camping group consisted of children from the ages of 8-17 yrs old. No one was bored," reports J B. Activities typically include crafts, games, and themed weekends during peak season.
Playground facilities: Several campgrounds maintain play equipment. "There is a small playground that is weathered but in decent shape. The pool is lovely and meticulously kept," describes katrina M. about Dixon's Campground. Some campgrounds also feature sports fields and game rooms for rainy days.
Tips from RVers
Security considerations: Salmon Falls / Lebanon KOA provides controlled access. "Staff was very friendly and extremely cautious about their surroundings," notes Nate J. Most larger campgrounds issue security cards or gate passes for after-hours access.
Utility reliability: Electric service quality varies between campgrounds. "Clean reliable power. No issues great spread out sites," reports Zachary W. about Wakeda Campground. Most RV sites offer 30-amp service, with limited 50-amp availability at premium sites.
Site sizing and access: Some campgrounds have challenging navigation for larger rigs. "Tight little roads and spots," warns Patrick H. about Dixon's. Research specific campground roads and site dimensions when traveling with units over 30 feet long.
