Camping opportunities near Sunapee, New Hampshire provide access to the region's characteristic granite landscapes and mixed hardwood forests at elevations ranging from 900-1,500 feet. The area's humid continental climate brings warm summers with daytime temperatures typically between 70-85°F and cool nights in the 50s. Winter camping is available at select locations like Meredith Woods, with facilities offering heated amenities when temperatures drop below freezing.
What to do
Fishing access: 24 hours: At Oxbow Campground, guests can enjoy freshwater fishing in one of three separate ponds. "The fishing pond was perfect. I will be returning soon. I highly recommend this place if you have a family or simply need a place to clear your mind," notes Kelly W. The campground maintains distinct ponds for fishing, boating, and swimming activities.
Rail trail biking: 5 miles: Cyclists can access the Sugar River Rail Trail directly from Crow's Nest Campground. "Close to the Sugar River Rail trail for biking," confirms Michele S. The trail follows a converted railroad bed with minimal elevation change, making it suitable for family riding through the New Hampshire countryside.
Gorge hiking: 30 minutes: Quechee State Park Campground offers direct hiking access to Quechee Gorge. "We were able to walk to the gorge as well as to the Antique mall. The staff was very friendly and accommodating with us," writes William P. A dedicated trail leads from the campground to the gorge viewpoints and down to water level.
What campers like
Free paddleboats: Oxbow Campground provides complimentary paddle boats for guests to use on the dedicated boating pond. "They have lots of fun family activities! We stayed with our parents in their camper for a couple nights and had such a positive experience there," writes Sara D., who appreciated the multiple water recreation options.
Clean bathroom facilities: Meredith Woods Four Season Camping maintains consistently clean facilities, even in challenging winter conditions. "Squeaky clean - and that's not always easy especially in the winter when everyone drags snow, slush and mud into the bathroom. Thank you for sticking to such high standards," reports Mara S.
Spacious sites: Several campgrounds offer larger sites for privacy and comfort. "Many sites are large and private. Bathrooms are clean. Hosts sponsor activities that are fun for all, like a balloon launch, cook outs, etc.," notes Melissa R. about Quechee State Park Campground. The park's wooded setting helps maintain separation between camping areas.
What you should know
Quiet time enforcement: Most campgrounds have designated quiet hours between 10pm-7am, with varying levels of enforcement. At Keyser Pond Campground, guests report mixed experiences with noise control. "A group of children were in the woods next to our site yelling profanities and attempting to make a teepee throughout the day," noted Erika H.
Road noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience traffic sounds due to proximity to highways. "The tent sites are wicked small, packed together and so close to the highway you don't get an ounce of quiet," reports one Keyser Pond Campground visitor. Similarly at Quechee State Park: "Road noise isn't super loud, but it's constant," notes reviewer B.
Site selection variance: Campground quality can vary significantly by site location within the same facility. At Crow's Nest Campground, Michele S. advises: "Mostly seasonals and RVs but there are some nice spots by the river. Most sites do not have much privacy, but the campground itself is very quiet and clean. Sites 66 & 55 seemed to be the most private."
Tips for camping with families
Indoor options for rainy days: Sandy Beach Campground provides alternative activities during inclement weather. "We enjoyed our stay. Playground is on the beach. They don't allow sparklers so that was a bummer on the 4th, but still got to see fireworks. Showers are free. We would stay again!" reports Nicole.
Activity scheduling: Quechee State Park Campground offers ranger-led programs specifically for children. "Rangers also run fun programs for children- my children churned butter and made popcorn over the campfire one night, and made tie dyed T-shirts the next (for no fee)," explains Jen B., highlighting the no-cost structured activities.
Swimming options: When glamping in Sunapee, New Hampshire with children, consider water access. "The sandy beach is nice but the swimming area is quite weedy," notes Tammy about Sandy Beach Campground. For cleaner swimming conditions, Oxbow Campground maintains separate swimming, fishing, and boating ponds to prevent cross-contamination.
Tips from RVers
Winter RV access: Meredith Woods Four Season Camping accommodates winter RV camping with specialized services. "Snow ploughing happens regularly and reliably. Indoor pool and hot tub are amazing on a snowy frigid winter day. Utility sink for dishes available in heated bathhouse," reports Mara S. about the luxury glamping experience available year-round.
Leveling requirements: Many Sunapee area campgrounds require leveling equipment due to terrain. At Caton Place Campground, Jim B. advises: "The pull through site is not level and is barely long enough to fit my 43' rig (with my motorcycle lift). Driving out of the site was just as bad. You have to go down a small hill and bottom out the front and then drag the backend out of the dirt."
Hookup considerations: RVers seeking full hookups should verify availability when booking glamping sites around Sunapee. "We paid $57/night for our full hookup site which is pretty costly especially since we did not use any of the amenities," notes Nancy W. about Quechee-Pine Valley KOA, highlighting the premium cost for RV connections compared to standard tent sites.
