Dispersed camping areas surround Troy, New Hampshire, situated in the southwestern region of the state at 1,017 feet elevation. The Monadnock Highlands influence the climate, with summer temperatures averaging 80°F and cooler nights dropping to 50°F, creating ideal tent camping conditions from late spring through early fall. The area's campgrounds provide various accommodation options including seasonal camping, tent sites, and yurt rentals.
What to do
Kayaking and river activities: The Ashuelot River Campground features riverside locations ideal for water recreation. "We took a lazy tube ride from one side of the campground to the other. 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," reports one camper who enjoyed floating around the campground.
Hiking trails: Several hiking routes connect through the region's forested areas. At Willard Brook State Forest Campground, "There are hiking trails in the area and, of course, swimming at the small pond. A nearby roadside waterfall offers another picnic area opportunity. For a longer hike, you can hike to and from Pearl Lake State Park."
Fishing opportunities: Multiple ponds and rivers offer fishing spots throughout the area. "We didn't catch any fish but there's always next time," mentions one visitor at Ashuelot River Campground, while another notes, "Oxbow Campground has 3 separate ponds - one for fishing, one for boating & the larger one is for swimming."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention the well-maintained bathrooms and shower facilities. At Oxbow Campground, "Tom takes great care to keep the grounds and the bathrooms/showers very clean. It is obvious he takes pride in ownership," notes one reviewer. Another mentions, "Clean & up-to-date bathrooms with hot showers."
Wooded campsites: Many Troy area campgrounds offer sites with forest cover for privacy and shade. A reviewer at Molly Stark State Park Campground noted, "the outer ring sites on the map have the most seclusion," while another mentioned, "It is well taken care of, just wish there were hiking trails directly available."
Accessible water recreation: The ability to enjoy water activities directly from campsites rates highly. "Great riverfront location. Huge sites and a very helpful owner. What more could you want?" mentions one Ashuelot River visitor, highlighting the direct access to water recreation that many campers seek.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds in the region require advance bookings, especially for weekend stays and unique accommodations. Otter River State Forest visitor notes, "There are only 27 sites, but in 2020 many of the ones served by composting toilets are closed. You need reservations in advance."
Seasonal operation: Most facilities operate from May through October, with limited off-season availability. "Download your maps for offline use! Cell connection was horrible heading up here," advises an Otter River State Forest camper, highlighting the importance of preparation for the area.
Weather considerations: Spring often brings mud season while summer can be buggy. As one camper at Autumn Hills mentioned, "the only con about the grounds, there were a ton of ticks on the edge of the site," highlighting the need for insect preparedness during summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Multiple swimming areas cater to families with children. A visitor to Autumn Hills Campground reports, "They offer boat rentals, canoes, paddle boats and kayaks. Store on site and they do activities during the week. Definitely more kids friendly I think. They have a pool, park, dog park, lake and food trucks visits at times."
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. At Friendly Beaver Campground, a camper notes, "We've been back here a few times because my girls love it. They have 3 outdoor pools (sports, toddler, regular) plus an indoor pool for rainy or chilly days."
Scheduled activities: Many campgrounds organize family-friendly events throughout the week. "They do community fires and dances," shares an Autumn Hills visitor, describing the social activities that keep families entertained during their stay.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose sites carefully as some areas have limited space for larger rigs. A visitor to The Pine Campground advised, "Most of the daily/weekly sites back up to a stream, which is nice. You can hear the water running, especially at night. We picked a site down the road from the playground."
Hookup access: While most campgrounds offer electric and water connections, their placement may require extended hoses or cords. "We stayed at site 14 needed a very long sewer hose," reported an Autumn Hills camper who was on their first RV outing.
Yurt camping options: For those seeking Troy, New Hampshire yurt accommodations without bringing an RV, several nearby options exist. At Otter River State Forest, "There is a large yurt suitable for 10 people. The yurt does offer electricity," providing an alternative to traditional tent or RV camping near Troy.
