New Hampshire's coastal region near Rye experiences cool, humid summers with average highs around 80°F in July and August. The camping season typically runs from May through October, with many campgrounds closing once temperatures drop below freezing at night. Most camping spots near Rye sit within 10 miles of the Atlantic Ocean, creating a unique mix of coastal and woodland camping environments.
What to do
Beach access from camp: Hampton Beach State Park Campground offers RV camping with full hookups right near the water. "Oceanfront location is classic NE style summer camping. Also classic NE style, it's packed in the summers. We caught the tail end of the season last year and the beach was super peaceful and much quieter than in high season," notes Lyssa M.
Fishing opportunities: At Pawtuckaway State Park Campground, fishing spots abound along the lake shores. "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 Matt R.
Explore nearby towns: From Seacoast Camping and RV Resort, visitors can easily reach Portsmouth and Newburyport. "The park is in a good location and pretty close to the beach, restaurants, shopping and access to Route 1. You are also just twenty minutes or so to Portsmouth and Newburyport which are some of our favorite New England coastal towns," notes Nancy W.
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Many campers praise the lakeside spots at Pawtuckaway State Park. "The sites on the water book up quickly but they're perfect for fishing and boating. Also, the view!" shares J L.
Proximity to beaches: Salisbury Beach State Reservation offers camping within walking distance of the ocean. "Clean facilities, super quick access to the beach, friendly staff, sites are pretty close together with little separation between each other. RV & tent sites available. Our family loves both the ocean & camping so it is a win-win!" says Sara D.
Off-season tranquility: Hampton Beach State Park becomes much quieter after summer peaks. "Extremely crowded in high season, empty in off season. Extremely close to the beach," mentions Caitlin B.
What you should know
Site spacing varies significantly: At Wakeda Campground, sites offer more privacy than many coastal options. "Great employees, clean reliable power. No issues great spread out sites," reports Zachary W.
Weather considerations: Fall camping requires preparation for cooler nights. Temperatures in September and October can drop into the 40s overnight, with increasing rainfall.
Reservation timing matters: Most waterfront sites book up 6-12 months in advance. Hampton Beach State Park reservations "are usually made a year in advance," according to Kevin K.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Sea Coast RV Resort provides child-friendly amenities. "Very clean, very quiet. Not a lot for kids to do," says Karen, while Crystal notes they have a "big playground."
Swimming options: Old Stage Campground offers a pool for families. A camper described it as "Kid. Accommodating. Family friendly. Kid infested. Safe. Scenic. Perfect."
Beach alternatives: When oceanfront spots are full, consider inland options with other water features. "There is a very large playground, horseshoe pits, shuffleboard, basketball, and camp store," at Seacoast Camping and RV Resort according to one reviewer.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Sea Coast RV Resort, some sites require careful navigation. "The roads in the park are fairly narrow and we had to drive over the grass across from our site in order to back in," reports Nancy W.
Power considerations: Many campgrounds offer both 30-amp and 50-amp service, but not all. "Good sites, with water and 30 amp electric. Easy walk to the beach. Dog friendly, big dump site, and good prices," notes John O. about Salisbury Beach State Reservation.
Extended stays: Several campgrounds offer monthly rates for longer visits. "We stayed here for a week, our site was large with full hookups and the area was very clean, some sites in other sections are closer together," reports Betty H. about Tuxbury Pond RV Campground.
