Union, New Hampshire camping options include private glamping sites and larger family resorts. Situated between the Ossipee Mountains and the Merrimack Valley, Union's campsites offer access to both mountain and lake recreation areas with summer temperatures averaging 78°F and cool evenings in the upper 50s.
What to do
Paddling exploration: At Pawtuckaway State Park Campground, visitors enjoy kayaking and canoeing between the park's three islands. "The sites on the water book up quickly but they're perfect for fishing and boating. Also, the view!" notes J L. Arrive early for the best paddling conditions.
Baseball and field activities: Bear Brook State Park Campground has open recreational fields adjacent to certain campsites. "Our site backed onto an open field with a backstop for baseball/softball. It meant that I could enjoy the sunny warmth on an otherwise cool morning," reports one visitor. The park spans 10,000 acres with facilities built by the Civilian Conservation Corps.
Local sightseeing: White Lake State Park Campground provides easy access to nearby attractions. "Close to groceries, the outlets, plenty of restaurants. Across the street to the North is the fabulous Rosie's Diner, a homey place with amazing food and home-baked bread," shares Angela T. The White Mountains and Conway shopping areas are within a short drive.
What campers like
Privacy options: Though many campgrounds offer clustered sites, Bunganut Lake Camping Area provides more secluded options. "This campground was quiet and the sites were fairly private. It is built on a hill so some sites are a bit of a walk to get to," writes Sarah. The tent sites include built decks overlooking the water.
Seasonal activities: Beaver Dam Campground maintains year-round appeal with changing activities. "Camping at this Campground is a place that is well managed, clean and very nice. IT is 9 miles from Wells Maine which is on the ocean," notes Sandie B. The location serves as a central base for coastal day trips and antiquing along Route 1.
Nature sounds: Campers appreciate natural ambiance at several sites around Union. "We were able to book last minute and got a great tenting site, next to a running river that was great to sleep to," reports Ben J. about Salmon Falls/Lebanon KOA. Natural water features provide both recreation and soothing background sounds.
What you should know
Site selection matters: White Lake campground's sites vary significantly in privacy and proximity to amenities. "Your experience will depend heavily on your neighbors! Our site was in very close proximity to all of the neighboring sites," cautions Sable W. Request sites farther from high-traffic areas for more peaceful stays.
Seasonal timing: Most campgrounds around Union operate from May through mid-October with optimal visits in September. "We stayed here twice, once in September 2013 and then again in September 2018 and it is one of my favorites," shares Ellen C. regarding Pawtuckaway State Park. Late season visits offer fewer crowds and milder temperatures.
Weather considerations: Rain preparation is essential at certain sites due to drainage patterns. "We were hit with an unexpected 36 hour downpour and there was only one suitable spot for our tent since the terrain is very rocky. After a few hours of constant rain I realized the water runoff from the road above and the driveway all ended up flowing right under our tent into the lake," recalls a camper.
Tips for camping with families
Activity options: Family-oriented campgrounds like Flat Rock Bridge Family Resort provide multiple recreation choices. "Flat Rock Campground is hands down the best campground I've been to my life for family has a huge outdoor water slide for the kids as the bathrooms the pools gift shop it's basically the camping theme park for adults and children," explains Mikey E. The resort includes both natural and built amenities.
Kid-friendly facilities: Bear Brook has designated family areas with playgrounds. "I was here with a 5-year-old the last time and she enjoyed the playgrounds both at the campground and at the Catamount Pond beach. There's another beach in the campground itself," shares Jean C. The multiple swimming areas accommodate different age groups.
Library access: Some campgrounds maintain unexpected amenities for rainy days. "My daughters first stop was the adorable library! Books, games and movies galore!" writes Laura K. about Bunganut Lake. These indoor options provide alternatives when outdoor activities aren't possible.
Tips from RVers
Site access challenges: RVers should note campground layout limitations. "I noticed that the little loop to my campsite was tight to exit (I was towing a 14' teardrop, not a big trailer) and I had to be careful to swing wide at the corner," warns Jean C. about Bear Brook State Park. Larger rigs require careful site selection.
Seasonal staffing: Beaver Dam Campground maintains consistent management through the season. "The owners are right there day in and day out, it is clean and pretty quiet even though there are many kids there camping but they pay attention to the rules so we all can have a ball," reports a camper. Staff presence ensures rule enforcement and better maintenance.
Hookup variations: Yurt camping near Union, New Hampshire often includes limited utility access. For traditional RVs seeking full hookups, Beaver Dam Campground offers water and electric connections. "Neat and quiet. Baths are new and clean. Only one washer/dryer," reports Constance S. about the facilities supporting RV campers.
