Tent camping near Surry, New Hampshire offers access to the southern edge of the Monadnock Highlands, where elevations range from 800 to 1,800 feet throughout the region. Located in the Connecticut River Valley, Surry sits between higher-elevation wilderness areas to the east and the river corridor to the west. Winter camping options are limited, with most sites closing between October and May, though several year-round backcountry options exist for experienced winter campers.
What to do
Paddle exploration opportunities: At Tully Lake Recreation Area in Royalston, MA, campers can rent canoes and kayaks to navigate the lake's islands and coves. "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 camper Ben P. The lake features multiple islands accessible only by boat.
Winter shelter camping: For cold-weather adventurers, Stratton Pond Shelter in Vermont provides year-round backcountry accommodations. Located at the intersection of three major trails, it requires a 3.75-mile winter hike from the nearest parking area. "Spent the weekend here on the last weekend of Feb. 2024. Cold, Snow, Wind, full moon in the middle of the woods with only the people I hiked in with," reports Miccal M.
River activities: The Zoar Outdoor campground in Massachusetts connects directly to whitewater rafting, tubing and water activities. Seth K. notes it's "close to where locals jump off outcrops into the lazy river and hang out on the river side." The campground partners with an adventure company offering guided trips suitable for different skill levels.
What campers like
Cart-based camping systems: Tully Lake's vehicle-free camping environment creates a quieter experience with gear transportation handled via provided carts. "The sites here are great, if you aren't bringing too much with you... There is no parking at each site, but a parking lot, then you can use a cart to truck your things in, anywhere from a few yards to about a mile," explains Kris M.
Private farm settings: Maple Ridge Farm offers an alternative to public campgrounds with a more intimate setting. "The owners were so friendly and excited to welcome campers. They have a common room that has games and eggs for sale. Toilet and shower were very clean. Very lush campground, plenty of space and privacy between sites," according to Les R.
Elevated camping platforms: Several campgrounds feature wooden tent platforms that keep tents dry during wet conditions. At Barton Cove Campground, "Rustic camping only- sites have tent platforms, grill, fire pit and picnic tables," according to Brie B. These platforms are particularly valuable during spring and fall when ground moisture levels are higher.
What you should know
Reservation timing strategies: Popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. Kris M. advises about Tully Lake: "The sites fill up weeks out (and can completely fill the day registration opens, which is date-dependent each year...Booking for Memorial Day meant I booked in April), so you have to be on your game."
Cell service limitations: Most camping areas have limited connectivity. Jean C. notes about Tully Lake: "Cell coverage is pretty close to absent or poor in most of the area, so download any maps you might want (driving, trail, geocaching) before you arrive." This applies throughout the region, with stronger signals typically only available in larger towns.
Bathroom accessibility varies: At some campgrounds, bathroom facilities are centralized rather than distributed. Miguel B. mentions about Tully Lake: "From some of the sites, this will be a long walk during the night." Lauren A. adds: "Our site was fairly far from services, long run with small kids in the middle of the night."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly camp layouts: Vehicle-free camping areas provide safer environments for children. At Tully Lake, Megan G. reports: "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."
Noise considerations: Holiday weekends bring different camping experiences. Lauren A. shares about Tully Lake: "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. Loud throughout." Midweek visits typically offer quieter conditions.
First-time camping suitability: Some sites are particularly welcoming for camping novices. At Lost Boys Hideout, recent upgrades make camping more accessible: "Nice new tents provided at Sleepy Hollow site. Improvements to the firepit, area all mulched, even some games and water are provided!" notes Steve K.
Tips from RVers
Campground category awareness: Most tent-focused campgrounds near Surry have limited or no RV accommodations. Dominick V. mentions about Zoar Outdoor: "Amenities are well maintained. Could use a refresh but overall great experience." RVers should contact campgrounds directly about accessibility before booking.
Shower access considerations: While tent-only areas typically have centralized shower facilities, these may require quarters. At Tully Lake, Miguel B. notes there is "one central restroom with showers (bring your quarters) and a place to wash dishes." Most campgrounds operate similar coin-operated shower systems.
Campground rules vary: Fire regulations and quiet hours differ significantly between properties. Seth K. points out about Zoar Outdoor: "They don't allow fired at the campsites though which is annoying and their quiet hours are quite oppressive." Always check specific regulations when booking.
