Campgrounds near Salem, New Hampshire operate primarily from April through October, with most closing in mid-autumn when temperatures typically drop below 40°F overnight. Sites at Salem area campgrounds range from rustic tent spots to full-hookup RV pads. The terrain is generally wooded with some open areas, with most campgrounds situated within a 30-minute drive of Salem's center.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Tuxbury Pond RV Campground in South Hampton offers a boating pond with fishing access. "Beautiful campground, clean grounds, gated campground with card key access in/out of the grounds, pavilion, fairly quiet during quiet hours, boating pond," reports a camper who stayed in 2020.
Golfing options: Hidden Valley RV and Golf Park features a 9 or 18-hole golf course with pro shop and golf cart rentals. "The main attraction of this campground is the golf course of 9 or 18 holes. There is a pro shop, golf cart rentals, etc," notes a reviewer. The 1300-acre property also offers two swimming beaches.
Swimming pools: Most campgrounds near Salem maintain seasonal swimming pools, generally open from Memorial Day to Labor Day. At Seacoast Camping and RV Resort, campers enjoy "a very large playground, horseshoe pits, shuffleboard, basketball, and camp store" according to a 2021 visitor.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained bathhouses and grounds at Salem-area RV parks. One camper at Seacoast Camping noted it was "clean, very well cared for, supper nice people and a decent price ($43/night) for camping in coastal New England."
Seasonal activities: Many parks schedule entertainment during peak season. At Woodmore Family Campground, campers appreciate the family-friendly environment. "Everything was clean, staff was friendly and attentive. Pool was clean, they have a great wiffleball park," reported a tent camper who visited with two other families.
Water recreation: Proximity to lakes and ponds for swimming, fishing, and boating ranks high with campers. A visitor to Cole's Mine RV Resort mentioned "Super fun pool and a small campground so not many people crowding the pool. Many nice fishing spots and lots of play areas and outdoor recreation."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most Salem area campgrounds require advance bookings, especially on weekends and during foliage season. At Pine Acres Resort, a camper noted, "This place has all of the amenities. As well as countless outdoor activities. Fun for the whole family! Swimming, fishing, hiking, climbing (near by), biking."
Tent camping limitations: Some RV parks near Salem have limited or no dedicated tent sites. A visitor to Mill Brook RV Park reported, "My daughter and I were traveling from Buffalo NY to Maine and I got too tired to drive. we tent camp. the owners were very nice and allowed us to tent, and set up at night, and it was a very nice stay, but it's definitely not very private and setup for campers."
Seasonal population: Many campgrounds have a high percentage of seasonal residents. One camper at Sandy Beach Campground observed, "a lot of seasonal folks. We had a nice corner site which fit our 34' rig just fine. The sandy beach is nice but the swimming area is quite weedy."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Campgrounds with playground equipment provide built-in entertainment for children. A visitor to Cole's Mine RV Resort praised the "2 amazing playgrounds, clean facilities and one amazing pool. We are local to the area and are thrilled to have met the owners."
Entertainment options: Scheduled activities keep families engaged during longer stays. At Tuxbury Pond RV Campground, a family appreciated impromptu entertainment: "There's a high likelihood that we wouldn't have went to see the comedians if it were held at the pavilion because of it being an adult show so we were kind of glad everything unfolded like that because they were really fantastic."
Swimming facilities: Pools and beach areas rank high with families seeking summer relief. A camper at Woodmore Family Campground noted, "It's great, although I was leery because of the rules they are not strict at all, you have to follow the rules but everybody does and it's a good experience, everyone is very friendly the owners are wonderful people."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RV campers recommend requesting specific sites when possible. At Sandy Beach Campground, one RVer explained, "Small but well organized campground. TT members will find all th e comforts of home. Staff is pleasant and helpful. Quiet during the weekdays, picks up over weekends but not to overbearing."
Seasonal considerations: Most RV parks near Salem, New Hampshire close by mid-October. At Moody Beach RV Campground, a late-season camper observed, "This is a great park to enjoy the fall colors. This park has a private feel with a gated access and keypad and buzzer to let you into the park."
Site spacing: RV sites in the area vary significantly in size and privacy. At Hidden Valley RV Park, a visitor noted, "Unfortunately, I can't give high marks to our campsite. The water and electric were between our site and the next on one side and sewer between our site and the one on the other side. This made it difficult to place our trailer on the slanted site."
