The Exeter region of New Hampshire offers diverse camping options within 20 miles of South Hampton. The area features hardwood forests and gentle rivers, with summer temperatures typically ranging 75-85°F during peak camping season. Campgrounds in this region often have established sites within short driving distance to local attractions, state parks, and coastal areas.
What to do
Hiking trails and nature: Pawtuckaway State Park Campground offers excellent day trips with mountain trails and a fire tower. "There are at least three campground areas, one of which is on an island and has tent sites along the water. If possible, reserve those to ensure the best spots (the sunrise!), but all of the campground sites are nice," notes Harry H.
Water recreation options: Exeter Elms Campground provides canoe rentals for river exploration. "Sites weren't bad, clean campground, pool & canoe rentals, family activities offered, short drive to the beaches. Primitive camping, waterfront sites & cabins available :)" shares Sara D.
Beach access: Hampton Beach State Park Campground puts you right beside the ocean. "It is basically a parking lot, but with full hookups and on the ocean. The ocean breezes are fantastic. One side of the campground is bordered by an inlet that fishing boats use to head out from the harbor," explains Steve K.
What campers like
Wooded campsites: Wakeda Campground offers sites nestled in mature pine forest. "We were overwhelmed by the beautiful massive forest. The campground was splendid with old tall, pine trees everywhere," writes Pawsfuradventure T.
Clean facilities: Sea Coast Camping and RV Resort maintains high standards for their 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," Rebecca S. reports.
Wildlife viewing: Salisbury Beach State Reservation offers opportunities to see local animals. "We loved paddle boarding in the river where seals were plentiful and fun to watch. There is also another winding river that goes through a marshy area that was great for bird watching," shares Nancy W.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Beach areas get crowded during peak summer. One camper at Hampton Beach notes, "Extremely crowded in high season, empty in off season. Extremely close to the beach."
Site proximity concerns: Tuxbury Pond RV Campground has tent sites with limited privacy. "The tent sites are way too close to each other, thank god we just had one other guy next to us but was very uncomfortable being too close, no privacy at all," explains ana.
Weather preparedness: Coastal areas can get windy. At Hampton Beach, David V. advises, "be careful of your awning as it is very windy."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Winding River Campground offers multiple play areas for children. "Two playgrounds, both were nice. Water slide was fun," shares Cassie G.
Kid-friendly events: Beach Rose RV Park organizes activities specifically for young campers. "The nearby town of Salisbury is a kitchy beach town with a few restaurants and the drive north up Coastal Route 1A is really pretty," notes Nancy W.
Beach swimming alternatives: Harold Parker State Forest offers lake swimming when coastal beaches are crowded. "There is a nice stretch of sandy beach at the campground as well as canoes and kayaks for rent," states Anna C.
Tips from RVers
Hookup access issues: At Pawtuckaway State Park Campground, some sites have better utilities than others. "The sites on the water book up quickly but they're perfect for fishing and boating. Also, the view!" advises J L.
Site leveling: Sea Coast Camping provides well-prepared sites. "Site was level and power and water pressure were good," reports Jim G.
Off-season advantages: Pet friendly camping near South Hampton, New Hampshire often offers more flexibility in the off-season. "Quiet hours from 10 am to 7 am. No alcohol allowed (although I didn't see an actual enforcement of this rule and guess it'll happen only if people act out). Rangers are constantly patrolling," mentions Migdalia G. about Harold Parker State Forest.