Best Campgrounds near Salem, NH
Campgrounds near Salem, New Hampshire range from rustic state parks to full-service RV resorts, with options within a 30-mile radius. Pawtuckaway State Park Campground in Nottingham features tent sites, RV spaces, cabins, and glamping accommodations amid a scenic lake setting. Closer to the Massachusetts border, campers find established facilities like Tuxbury Pond RV Campground in South Hampton, which accommodates various camping styles including tent camping and cabin rentals. Several state forests and parks in the region maintain developed campgrounds with moderate amenities, while private campgrounds offer more extensive hookups and facilities.
Most camping areas in the region operate seasonally, typically from May through October, with limited availability during winter months. Harold Parker State Forest, located south of Salem, provides water spigots at nearly every site, though hookup positioning may be inconvenient for RVs. Reservations are essential during summer months, particularly for waterfront sites at popular destinations like Pawtuckaway State Park. The terrain varies from flat, developed campgrounds near town to more rugged settings in state parks. Many sites include fire rings, picnic tables, and access to bathroom facilities, though amenities differ significantly between public and private lands. According to one visitor, "Pawtuckaway State Park offers a variety of landscapes, with something to do and see for everyone. The park includes a large family beach on the lake."
Public campgrounds throughout the region typically receive higher ratings for natural settings and water access, with many campers highlighting the quality of waterfront sites. Bear Brook State Park Campground, approximately 25 miles northwest of Salem, earns praise for its family-friendly atmosphere and extensive trail systems. Visitors consistently mention the privacy levels at state park campsites as a key factor in their camping experience. RV travelers appreciate the full-hookup options at privately operated campgrounds like Beach Rose RV Park, which provides convenient access to coastal attractions. A review noted that some state park bathhouses are "tired, but they offer free showers," reflecting the general experience at public facilities. Proximity to attractions in Salem and Boston serves as a major draw for many campgrounds, with Winter Island Park in Salem being particularly popular for its location despite limited privacy between sites.