Glamping near Somersworth, New Hampshire offers access to diverse terrain within a 30-minute drive radius, from salt marshes and coastal beaches to inland forests and ponds. The region sees seasonal temperature fluctuations with summer highs averaging 80°F and winter lows often below freezing. Most luxury camping accommodations operate from May through mid-October, closing during the winter months when snow accumulation can exceed 60 inches annually.
What to do
Paddle the waterways: Pawtuckaway State Park Campground provides direct access to multiple water features. "This 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. The park's network of ponds and islands creates excellent paddling routes for beginners through advanced kayakers.
Enjoy heated swimming options: Sandy Pines Campground maintains water activities even during cooler months. "The pool is heated and very inviting," mentions Celeste C. The campground's location provides strategic positioning between inland recreation and coastal attractions, with swimming available on-site and at nearby beaches.
Mountain biking trails: Explore extensive trail networks at Bear Brook State Park Campground. "We camped here to check out the mountain bike trails in the park and we're not disappointed on either count... The biking trails were a blast," explains Eammon C. The park features over 40 miles of multi-use trails with varying difficulty levels suitable for beginners through advanced riders.
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Many campers prefer the premium water-adjacent locations 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. These sites often require reservations 6 months in advance during peak season.
Immaculate facilities: Shel-Al Campground maintains exceptionally clean amenities. "This is one of the cleanest, most meticulously maintained campground we have been to. So quiet and peaceful as well. Wifi service was excellent," reports Rebecca S. The campground features new washing machines and regularly cleaned shower facilities.
Private settings: Dixon's Coastal Maine Campground offers secluded sites for those seeking privacy. "All of the sites seem to have rocky ground, so I recommend a sleep pad and a footprint for your tent so you don't rip the bottom," advises Katrina M., noting that "The grounds, bathrooms and showers are spotless."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Popular sites fill months in advance, especially waterfront locations. At Flat Rock Bridge Family Resort, campers note significant changes in management. "This campground is under a new name it is a KOA now and is better than it was under the old owners I spent 3 here it is kinda pricey 107 a night on the weekend," reports Ian, indicating premium pricing for weekend stays.
Seasonal pest considerations: Several campgrounds experience significant insect activity, particularly near water features. "I don't recommend camping riverside because the mosquitoes were the worst I've seen in my life and I grew up in Maine so I know mosquitoes and how bad they can be," warns Angela M. about riverside sites.
Pay showers: Multiple campgrounds in the region require quarters for shower use. "It's 50 cents for 5 minutes to take a shower (unheard of) with hot water. There is even hot water to wash your dishes next to the bathrooms," explains a camper at Dixon's Coastal Maine Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Activity centers: Salmon Falls / Lebanon KOA provides extensive recreation options. "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," shares J B. The campground features swimming pools, water slides, arcade games and organized weekend activities.
Beach proximity: Several campgrounds offer convenient beach access. "Wakeda Campground is clean, the people are friendly and very close to the beach," notes Marianne O., highlighting the 10-15 minute drive to Hampton Beach from this location.
Playground options: Bear Brook State Park features multiple play areas. "I was so impressed by how well the grounds were kept and how clean the bathrooms were... The park is very dog friendly for camping as well as hiking. The trails were very well marked and really conveniently close by to the campsites," reports Gabby M., indicating the family-friendly environment.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Verify site dimensions when booking. "Some of the sites are a bit too close to each other but there are some that are nice and private," notes Kimberly R. about Bear Brook State Park. Many campgrounds in the area feature mixed site types with varying privacy levels.
Power reliability: Wakeda Campground receives high marks for stable electrical service. "Great employees, clean reliable power. No issues, great spread out sites," states Zachary W., indicating dependable utility connections for sensitive RV electronics.
Level parking pads: Site leveling varies significantly between campgrounds. At Sandy Pines Campground, "The sites are nice size with gravel. They are under trees so we could watch the colors change," reports Marilea G., noting the importance of solid parking surfaces for larger rigs.
