Best Campgrounds near Sunapee, NH
State parks and forests surrounding Sunapee, New Hampshire feature a range of camping experiences from primitive sites to full-service facilities. Pillsbury State Park, located about 15 miles southwest of Sunapee, offers a more rustic camping experience with both drive-in and boat-in sites on its wooded, pond-dotted landscape. Within a 30-minute drive, campers can access several established campgrounds including Crow's Nest and Northstar in nearby Newport, which provide tent and RV accommodations with varying levels of amenities. The Vermont border lies just 20 miles west, where additional options like Mount Ascutney and Wilgus State Parks expand the camping possibilities. Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally from mid-May through mid-October, closing during the harsh New Hampshire winter.
Camping permits and reservations are essential during the peak summer season when waterfront sites fill quickly. According to one camper at Pillsbury State Park, "Most of the campsites are accessible by car with space to park a car or two. Many campsites are on the lake. None are very far from the lake." The region experiences typical New England weather patterns with warm, occasionally humid summers and cool nights even in July and August. Cell service varies considerably throughout the area, with spotty coverage in more remote locations. Mosquitoes can be problematic, particularly in wooded areas near water, with several reviewers specifically mentioning the need for insect repellent. Not all New Hampshire state parks allow dogs, so pet owners should verify policies before arrival.
Water access represents a significant draw for campers in the Sunapee region. Lakefront and riverside sites typically command higher ratings from visitors who appreciate the swimming, fishing, and paddling opportunities. One reviewer noted that "rentals of canoes and kayaks were helpful" at Pillsbury State Park, while mentioning that "swimming is available at Sunapee unless you like leeches." Many campgrounds feature coin-operated showers, with quarters required at most state park facilities. The Monadnock-Sunapee Greenway, a 48-mile hiking trail connecting Mount Monadnock with Mount Sunapee, passes through Pillsbury State Park, providing excellent day hiking opportunities directly from campsites. Fall foliage season attracts significant crowds, with campgrounds often reaching capacity during peak color weekends in late September and early October.
