The West Swanzey camping region sits at approximately 500 feet elevation in southwestern New Hampshire's Monadnock Region. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-80°F with higher humidity levels than neighboring mountain areas. Unlike the riverside campgrounds emphasized in existing resources, numerous camping spots near West Swanzey offer distinct inland forest experiences with varying levels of amenities and access to recreational activities.
What to do
Paddling adventures: Ashuelot River provides ideal conditions for kayaking and tubing directly from several campsites. "We spent another great weekend at the Ashuelot River Campground. Having good weather, we took a lazy tube ride from one side of the campground to the other...We were able to enjoy a nice, slow drift around the campground," according to a reviewer at Ashuelot River Campground.
Mountain hiking: The West Swanzey region offers access to notable peaks within a 30-minute drive. At Monadnock State Park, one camper shared, "The White Dot Trail starts off flat, but that's very short-lived. The trail begins to climb steeply pretty early on. The second half of the trail is very steep with lots of rock scrambles. You definitely have to watch your footing most of the hike."
Swimming options: Many local campgrounds provide lake access with designated swimming areas. "The lake is perfect for swimming, kayaking, and fishing. There are ample trails for hiking and kids can ride their bikes," noted a visitor at Lake Dennison Recreation Area about this family-friendly option just 25 minutes northeast of West Swanzey.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Campers frequently mention site privacy as a key factor in their positive experiences. "The sites are large and wooded; I had a better view of the campsite across the road than the ones next door," wrote a camper at Monadnock State Park's Gilson Pond Campground, highlighting the natural separation between sites.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and showers are consistently mentioned in positive reviews. A visitor to Fort Dummer State Park noted, "Sites are large and well maintained. Plenty of space between sites. It is a state park so there are not many services, but there is a great hike to a swimming hole and it is very close to Brattleboro, VT."
Helpful staff: Campground hosts receive praise for their knowledge and assistance. At Kampfires (formerly Hidden Acres), a camper shared, "The store and ice cream are cute, prices are very reasonable. Staff is fantastic and friendly." Another mentioned, "This place is pretty awesome. They have an ice cream shop attached to their office/store, mini golf just outside of it too."
What you should know
Weight restrictions on bridges: Local covered bridges have strict weight and height restrictions that affect RV access. One reviewer at Ashuelot River Campground advised, "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."
Variable cell service: Mobile coverage varies significantly between campgrounds and carriers. A camper at Tully Lake Recreation Area noted, "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."
Limited hookups at state parks: Many state parks in the region offer limited or no hookups. For example, Monadnock State Park's Gilson Pond Campground has only 4 sites with electric hookups and none with water, according to reviewer information.
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated play areas: Some campgrounds offer structured play options for children. A visitor at Greenfield State Park noted, "There's a shower and nice lake with rentals," while another mentioned "Swimming pond and beach is clean but can get crowded on a busy weekend. Frog pond is fun to explore."
Choose campgrounds with recreational rentals: Many sites offer equipment rentals that eliminate the need to transport bulky items. "Canoes and kayaks are available for rental. Volleyball and horseshoes are near the entrance," reported a camper at Tully Lake Recreation Area.
Consider noise levels when selecting sites: Highway proximity affects some campgrounds and specific sites. A reviewer at Swanzey Lake Camping Area observed, "All tent sites are in the way back of the campground... Showers and flush toilets nearest to the tent sites are brand new... Would consider coming again in the off season so that it isn't so crowded."
Tips from RVers
Verify site dimensions before booking: Many campgrounds in the region have size limitations. At Hinsdale Campground, a reviewer mentioned it's "Mostly seasonal with a back row for short term campers. Used by a lot of offroad bikes on weekends. All sites are full hookups with several primitive tent sites."
Seek dedicated RV areas with level sites: Finding level ground can be challenging in this hilly region. A camper at Swanzey Lake Camping Area noted, "Site 12 a little tight for 21 ft travel trailer. Large tree canopy. Lots of seasonal sites make up a majority of sites. No WiFi, AT&T is 2 bars without booster."
Check shower facilities: Coin-operated showers are common at state parks. At Fort Dummer State Park, a visitor mentioned, "Bathrooms/showers are very clean. No electric hookups and if you're on solar power as we were, choose a site with fewer trees."
