Camping near Washington, New Hampshire offers diverse options beyond established campgrounds. The region sits within the Monadnock Highlands at elevations ranging from 800-1,200 feet, creating distinct microclimates that extend the camping season through mid-autumn. Many sites provide direct water access, with several campgrounds offering boat rentals for non-motorized exploration of local ponds and lakes.
What to do
Kayaking on local ponds: At Pillsbury State Park Campground, visitors can explore multiple small ponds. "Kayaking on May Pond and discovering little islands and coves was a highlight," notes Jessica N. The park rents canoes and kayaks for those without their own equipment.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple water bodies in the region are stocked with fish. "The lake would really be nice for kayaking if you have one," mentions Brandon C. about Pillsbury State Park. For dedicated anglers, "Swimming is available at sunapee unless you like leaches. Fishing friendly and quiet campground," adds J L.
Hiking the Monadnock-Sunapee Greenway: The 51-mile trail connecting Mount Monadnock with Mount Sunapee passes through several camping areas. "There are great hikes that you can get to right from your campsite, connecting to the Monadnock-Sunapee greenway," explains Matthew S. The trail offers moderate day hiking options through woodland terrain.
What campers like
Secluded woodland sites: Greenfield State Park Campground offers privacy through natural landscaping. "Very large campground with lots of woods to block you from other campers," says Erin R. Similarly, Jade B. mentions, "We went camping with a group of 5 people spread out onto two sites. It was easy to find the campground and our site."
Waterfront camping spots: Direct lake access ranks high among camper preferences. "Many campsites are on the lake. None are very far from the lake," explains a camper about Pillsbury State Park. At Ashuelot River Campground, "Some site on the river, some in the woods and some in a field," notes Michael M., providing options for different preferences.
Clean facilities: Despite rustic settings, many campgrounds maintain clean amenities. "The bathrooms were clean but if I remember correctly you had to pay for showers," says one camper about Greenfield State Park. Another notes, "Clean bath houses, laundry, dump station gameroom, and camp store. One of the best in the area!"
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds in the region operate from May through mid-October. "We stayed late in the season during a chilly damp weekend and had the best time," reports Richard W. about Spacious Skies Seven Maples. Fall camping offers spectacular foliage but requires warmer sleeping gear.
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies significantly throughout the region. "Be prepared to not have much cell phone service either if you need things while you're camping. If you have Verizon and you're at campsite 34 you can get a little service," advises Lisa P. about Pillsbury State Park. Another camper confirms, "Cell reception for Verizon isn't great."
Bathroom facilities vary: Many campgrounds feature rustic facilities. "Pit toilets, sites are spacious," notes one camper. At another location, "Modest camp store. Pallets of firewood are delivered to your site and reasonably priced. Nice pool. Port-a potty by the river needs to be replaced," reports Brenda H.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly swimming areas: Crows Nest and other campgrounds offer designated swimming zones. "Nice campground on a beautiful lake," reports one visitor. However, water quality can change seasonally. "When we went (July) the water was closed due to Cyanobacteria Blooms, hence the 1 star deduction," notes Hailey D. about a different location.
Playgrounds and recreation: Many campgrounds include play areas. "The playground is really big with plenty to do. There's also a fishing pond and short hiking/biking trails," shares one family. Another camper adds, "The kids could fish whenever. Lots of hiking trails (the dogs loved it)."
Rental options for non-tent campers: Families without camping gear can still enjoy the outdoors. "We stayed in the cabin with a kitchenette and bathroom. The shower worked well and it was nice not to have to walk to the restrooms, though they were close by," reports Alison S. Cabins often book quickly during summer weekends.
Tips from RVers
Site access considerations: Northstar Campground and other facilities have varying RV accommodations. "My husband and I spent Memorial Day weekend here. We had a spacious site w/water and electric next to the Sugar River," reports Louise L. Some campgrounds have size restrictions, as one camper notes, "Don't bring a large RV - the sites are not meant for big rigs."
Hookup availability: Electric and water connections are common, but not universal. "Had issues with 30 amp service at site was not providing enough power, could not run all my campers amenities," warns Zachary W. Most campgrounds offer a dump station rather than full sewer hookups at each site.
Seasonal site options: Many campgrounds offer longer-term options. "Rental tent and rv sites mixed with seasonal sites," observes one camper. This creates a community atmosphere but can limit availability for short-term visitors during peak seasons when reservations should be made well in advance.
