The Nottingham area sits in the diverse terrain of southeast New Hampshire, where lakes and forests define the landscape. Cabin camping options near West Nottingham range from waterfront accommodations to forest retreats, with varying amenities between May and October. Winter cabin availability is limited to select year-round properties.
What to do
Lakeside activities: Pawtuckaway State Park offers excellent water recreation with three islands and numerous waterfront campsites. "This a a fantastic little camp for if you want to go canoeing or kayaking or boating of any kind! It's set up of three islands and a large majority of the campsites are right on the water," notes a camper at Pawtuckaway State Park Campground.
Hiking trails: Bear Brook State Park provides multiple trail systems through its 10,000-acre forest preserve. A visitor reports, "The trails were very well marked and really conveniently close by to the campsites. The park is very dog friendly for camping as well as hiking." Bear Brook State Park Campground offers cabin guests access to these trails directly from the camping areas.
Mountain biking: Bear Brook features an extensive trail network for cyclists. "Mountain biking is awesome here, can ride right off the campground and onto the trails," mentions one camper who stays regularly. The trails accommodate various skill levels and connect to many of the cabin areas.
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: Many cabin sites offer separation from neighboring campers. At Wakeda Campground, "Nice wooded lots" provide natural screening between cabins. "It still had beautiful trees surrounding it but not as secluded from neighbors," notes a guest about their site change during rainy weather.
Well-maintained facilities: Cleanliness ranks high among visitor priorities. "The campground and bathrooms are kept very clean," reports a repeat visitor to Wakeda Campground. This is especially important for cabin guests who need to use central bathhouse facilities.
Lake views: Waterfront cabins provide direct access to water activities. "The sites on the water book up quickly but they're perfect for fishing and boating. Also, the view!" shares an enthusiastic visitor about lakefront accommodations at Pawtuckaway State Park Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Most cabin rentals operate from May through mid-October. "Opening day. Great time," notes a visitor who arrived for the first weekend in May at Old Stage Campground, indicating the importance of understanding seasonal operations.
Reservation requirements: Advanced booking is essential, especially for waterfront units. "If you plan ahead and get a water front site it's amazing," advises a Pawtuckaway visitor, highlighting how prime locations fill quickly.
Amenity variations: Cabin facilities differ significantly between properties. Some offer basic shelter while others include more comforts. "Sites are level and roomy. The bathroom was clean. The walk to the beach was along a public parking lot," explains a camper describing the layout at Pawtuckaway.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access: Properties with swimming areas provide built-in entertainment. At Calef Lake Camping Area, "The water is great for swimming, and the playground is absolutely perfect for kids and adults alike," according to a regular family visitor.
Planned activities: Some campgrounds organize family events. "Kids and adult paint the weekend we were there," mentions a camper about a special activity at Calef Lake. Scheduled programming varies by location and date.
Playground facilities: Many properties offer play areas for children. "This campground is perfect for a quick escape from southern NH without going too far north! Located in Alton, this quiet family owned campground is a favorite among our group!" notes an enthusiastic family camper.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: For visitors bringing RVs alongside cabin-camping family members, Barrington Shores Campground offers varied options. "Few transient sites but beautiful spots.119 on water by the beach and fishing spot. Would definitely come back," shares a visitor who secured a premium location.
Parking constraints: Some cabin areas have limited vehicle access. "The road in is dirt but is mostly level," notes a camper who stayed for an extended period at a nearby property, highlighting the importance of understanding access limitations.
Utility connections: For RVs parking near cabins, hookup availability varies. "Great employees, clean reliable power. No issues great spread out sites," reports a visitor about their experience with the electrical system at Wakeda Campground.
