Tent camping near Stoddard, New Hampshire offers access to diverse forested environments within the Monadnock region, where elevations range from 700 to 2,000 feet. Primitive camping options exist alongside established campgrounds across Cheshire and Hillsborough counties. Summer temperatures typically reach 80°F during day and drop to 50-60°F at night, with frequent afternoon thunderstorms from June through August.
What to do
Paddling exploration: Tully Lake Recreation Area provides direct water access with canoe and kayak rentals available on-site. "We take our canoe and spend the whole day at the lake. You can find lots of private areas to swim, pick blueberries and relax," notes one visitor at Tully Lake Recreation Area.
Waterfall hiking: Several campgrounds offer access to waterfall trails within walking distance. "If you'd like to hike with children, there is an easy hike close to the entrance, along Doane's Falls, a series of 5 waterfalls along an ascending path through a wooded area," reports a Tully Lake camper.
Mountain climbing: Mount Cardigan provides accessible summit trails with fire tower views. "Great spot to spend the night before a climb of Mt. Cardigan! The climb is challenging but shouldn't take too long. Great fire tower views at the top too!" notes a camper at Cardigan Campsites.
What campers like
Site privacy: Many campgrounds offer well-spaced sites with natural separation. "We stayed at site 1, which was HUGE and extremely private. Sites closer to the water that we saw were less private, but still very peaceful and spread out," reports a visitor at Tully Lake Recreation Area.
Car-free camping environments: Several campgrounds restrict vehicle access to camping areas. "No cars at all at the campsites, which was great for peace of mind as our toddler roamed around. It also made for a super quiet stay," notes a Tully Lake camper.
Upgraded amenities: Some private sites offer enhanced facilities beyond standard campground provisions. "Nice new tents provided at Sleepy Hollow site. Improvements to the firepit, area all mulched, even some games and water are provided!" shares a camper at Lost Boys Hideout.
What you should know
Tent platform limitations: Some sites feature wooden platforms rather than ground sites. "Rustic camping only- sites have tent platforms, grill, fire pit and picnic tables," notes a visitor at Barton Cove Campground.
Access logistics: Walk-in sites can require significant effort to transport gear. "Keeping gear to a minimum is a good idea," advises one Tully Lake camper, while another notes, "Only real annoyance was dealing with set up and take down of the campsite- you check in at the office, grab a key to unlock the gate, drive to the campground, unlock gate, drive through gate, lock gate, unload your stuff, drive to gate, unlock gate, drive through gate, lock gate, return key, drive back to campground, walk to your site."
Variable water availability: Water sources can be inconsistent, especially at backcountry sites. "Note: This is a back country shelter on the Appalachian trail that doesn't have consistent water," warns a hiker at Winturri Backcountry Shelter, though "Water was running when I was there in mid-August from a spring close to the shelter."
Tips for camping with families
Vehicle-free environments: Some campgrounds restrict vehicles for quieter, safer settings. "No cars at all at the campsites, which was great for peace of mind as our toddler roamed around," reports a family at Tully Lake.
Bathroom distance considerations: Central facilities may require long walks from certain sites. "Our site was fairly far from services, long run with small kids in the middle of the night," notes a family at Tully Lake.
Private farm camping option: For families seeking unique camping experiences, Maple Ridge Farm offers assistance with site access. "They'll drive you in an ATV up to some of the sites that are further away from the parking lot," and "They have a common room that has games and eggs for sale."
Tips from RVers
Military recreation access: The New Boston Recreation Area provides year-round tent camping options with "Great scenery with fresh air and freedom sunshine!"
Limited services reminder: Most tent-focused campgrounds around Stoddard offer minimal RV amenities. "You park at the entrance, register with Ranger. Large wooden wheelbarrows are provided to bring your gear to your camp site. (This means no noise or disturbances from cars entering your camp sites.)"
Weekend crowd management: Holiday periods can bring different camping experiences. "We went memorial day weekend few years ago, busy holiday of young teens partying. Park staff tried their best, but other campers definitely took away from our stay."
