Campsites in Surry, New Hampshire sit at approximately 500-700 feet elevation in the Connecticut River Valley region, creating a moderate climate ideal for extended camping seasons. The area features a mix of wooded terrain and river access points, with most campgrounds maintaining operating seasons from May through October. Water features prominently in the camping experience with both natural and man-made swimming areas available at multiple locations.
What to do
Paddle the Ashuelot River: Several campsites offer direct river access for various watercraft. "We recently purchased a new-to-us camper and wanted to get in a trip or two before putting it away for the winter... Having good weather, we took a lazy tube ride from one side of the campground to the other," shares one visitor at Ashuelot River Campground.
Hike local trails: Mount Olga offers a 1.7-mile round trip trail connecting to the Hogback Mountain Conservation area. A reviewer at Molly Stark State Park Campground notes, "You can continue on the hiking trail to a cute brewery/pizza place or even a distillery. If hiking is not for you it's a 3 minute car ride away."
Fish in stocked waters: When conditions permit, fishing is popular at multiple campgrounds. "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," writes a camper at Oxbow Campground.
Explore the Ashuelot Rail Trail: Access this converted rail trail directly from some campgrounds. "You can pick up the Ashuelot Rail Trail at the campground. They have canoes and kayaks on site, plus a shuttle service for water sports or biking," mentions one visitor.
What campers like
Spacious riverfront sites: Many campgrounds offer sites directly on waterways. "We were in site 59, a pull-through with water and 30/50 amp service. The site was level and easy to get into and park. We were in a fully wooded area on the left side of the campground, which we prefer. They have sites located in fully open areas, as well as some that are partially wooded and have river access," reports a repeat visitor to Ashuelot River Campground.
Clean bathroom facilities: Yurt camping and tent camping guests particularly appreciate good facilities. "Bathrooms are plentiful and clean, hot showers for a small price. Beautiful clean swimmable lake with a walking trail around it," notes a visitor at Woodford State Park Campground.
Free recreational equipment: Some campgrounds offer complimentary water equipment. "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! They have 3 separate ponds-one for fishing, one for boating & the larger one is for swimming. Plenty of bathrooms throughout campground and sites are not expensive to reserve."
Yurt accommodations: Several campgrounds around Surry offer yurt camping options. "They sites are nice and private. The views on some of the sites to the lake are beautiful. The grounds and facilities are well kept. And you are close to both Bennington and Wilmington."
What you should know
Seasonal drought conditions: River activities can be affected by water levels. "It has been quite dry in the area, so they are experiencing a drought. However, a little rain in the week got the river moving a bit. We were able to enjoy a nice, slow drift around the campground."
Yurt camping availability: For those interested in yurt camping near Surry, New Hampshire, advance reservations are essential. "At the top of the hill, there are several yurts available," notes a camper at Woodford State Park Campground. Most yurts in the region are booked months in advance, especially during peak foliage season.
Noise levels vary: Some campgrounds can be lively, especially on weekends. "The sites along the river were nice and quiet," reports one visitor, while another mentions, "If you're looking for a quiet spot maybe don't look here. If you have kids and don't mind them making friends and roaming the campground then this is great!"
Covered bridge restrictions: Some access roads have weight and height restrictions. "Highly suggest reading the directions on the campgrounds website about the covered bridge you're not allowed to cross- we discovered this the hard way."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Many campgrounds have designated swimming areas for kids. "The campground has a nice grassy area on the water that's dog-friendly, and a separate little no-dog swimming and paddle boat area," notes a visitor at Crow's Nest Campground.
Multi-generational accommodations: Consider mixing camping styles when traveling with extended family. "We stayed with our parents in their camper for a couple nights and had such a positive experience there! They have 3 separate ponds-one for fishing, one for boating & the larger one is for swimming."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Keep eyes open for local wildlife. "Awesome campground with two of the greatest host/owners Chuck and Laura. We have been coming here for years and always enjoy the time spent here. Beautiful river to float down or paddle up. Saw a bald eagle this past weekend while paddling up past the campground."
Pet-friendly sites: Many campgrounds welcome dogs but have specific areas. "My husband and I enjoyed our stay so much, we can't wait to return in a couple months... People were very respectful throughout; no loud music, no obnoxious lighting, no dog poop or litter scattered about."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Choose wisely based on privacy needs. "Sites located along the river are wooded, field sites are very open great for seeing the stars at night. Sites have fire rings with excellent airflow for good burning with low smoke. Hook ups are in great condition for power, water, sewer," advises an RVer from Ashuelot River Campground.
Directional guidance: Follow specific routes to avoid low clearance obstacles. "Follow the website directions to get here as there are covered bridges in the area with low Clearance and low weight limits."
Access challenges: Some campgrounds have narrow roads that can challenge larger rigs. "This past holiday weekend we went to the campground. Upon arrival the owner made me go with them to the site and leave the motorhome blocking the entrance into the campground. The roads aren't wide enough to take a motorhome into."
Seasonal site considerations: Many campgrounds have a mix of seasonal and transient RV sites. "We were in a fully wooded area on the left side of the campground, which we prefer. They have sites located in fully open areas, as well as some that are partially wooded and have river access. There is a nice mix."
