Camping sites near Wilmot, New Hampshire range from primitive to modern options situated between 700 and 1,100 feet elevation in the Lakes Region. The camping season generally extends from mid-May through October, with higher elevation sites experiencing cooler nighttime temperatures even in summer. Most area campgrounds manage black fly and mosquito populations through site placement and regular maintenance.
What to do
Kayaking and canoeing: Pillsbury State Park Campground offers small ponds perfect for paddling exploration. "Kayaking on May Pond and discovering little islands and coves was a highlight," reports Jessica N. The park offers boat rentals for visitors without their own equipment.
Swimming options: At Loon Lake Campground & Function Hall, campers enjoy a sandy beach area. One visitor noted, "Between the beach, the mini golf, playground, and an entire shed of recreation items available to use this place is amazing!" Some ponds have water quality concerns - "Swimming in the stream is safe but the lake is loaded with leeches!" warns J L. about Pillsbury.
Hiking trails: The Quechee State Park Campground connects to multiple trail networks. A camper shared, "The park is close to good shopping, and also the Billings-Rockefeller National Historic Park in Woodstock, which is an awesome destination for families." Trails range from easy pond loops to challenging mountain ascents.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Pillsbury State Park Campground gets high marks for seclusion. "I recently stayed at site 1A over the Memorial day weekend. After a very quick checkin at the Park office, I headed out to my site. The site features a 200ft hike in on a rustic trail. At the end of the trail you are greeted with a nice private site, and an equally spectacular view of the Vickery Pond," shares Richard M.
Year-round options: Meredith Woods Four Season Camping stands out for winter accessibility. "Snow ploughing happens regularly and reliably. Indoor pool and hot tub are amazing on a snowy frigid winter day. Utility sink for dishes available in heated bathhouse," reports Mara S., making it a rare four-season option in the region.
Waterfront access: Many campers prioritize sites along rivers or ponds. At Crows Nest Campground, "This campground has nice, quiet, shaded riverside sites and other sites options as well. Showers are $0.25 for 8 minutes. Pallets of firewood are delivered to your site and reasonably priced," according to Brenda H.
What you should know
Bathroom facilities vary widely: Prepare for different levels of amenities. At Pillsbury State Park, "Pit toilets, sites are spacious, cell reception for Verizon isn't great," notes J L. Meanwhile, at Northstar Campground, one camper mentioned issues with facilities: "The outhouse was awful and non-functional. If they do nothing else they need to address this."
Cash only at some parks: Plan your payment method. At Pillsbury State Park, "Everything is cash here, no cards accepted except when reserving a site online," advises Brandon C. Some parks require quarters for shower facilities.
Reservations recommended: Popular sites fill quickly, especially waterfront locations. Campers who secure reservations report better experiences: "Was able to get last minute reservations," notes Brian P. about Northstar Campground, though this may not always be possible during peak season.
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated play areas: Quechee State Park Campground offers family-friendly activities. "Rangers also run fun programs for children- my children churned butter and made popcorn over the campfire one night, and made tie dyed T-shirts the next (for no fee)," shares Jen B.
Check for swim safety: Water conditions vary between locations. At French Pond, a visitor noted, "Campground is nice, clean, has a pond, playground, pool, Canoeing, sites are decent size, entertainment on some nights offered in pavilion, friendly staff, pet friendly & quiet nights." Confirm swimming conditions before planning water activities with children.
Consider noise levels: Some campgrounds enforce quiet hours more strictly than others. One family at Northstar reported being asked to quiet down "despite it being approximately an hour and a half before the official quiet hours, which begin at 11:00 PM." Choose sites away from common areas for evening quiet.
Tips from RVers
Dump station access: Check for convenient waste disposal. At Sandy Beach Campground, facilities are complete but layout matters. "Small but well organized campground. TT members will find all the comforts of home. Staff is pleasant and helpful," reports Robert M., though noting it's "Mostly a 5th wheelers park but you can see a 34 foot class A here and there so don't fret, there is room."
Hookup reliability: Some campgrounds advertise services not fully available. At French Pond, one RVer mentioned: "The campground is advertised as having full hookups with Wi-fi and cable. Asked about Wi-fi, 'it's not all hooked up yet'. Told them our cable didn't work, 'it's not connected yet'."
Site leveling requirements: Prepare for varied site conditions. "The campground has a gravel area at the sites where the fire ring and picnic tables are. Where we parked our trailer was some gravel sand and dirt," notes Harold C. about French Pond. Bring leveling blocks as many sites require adjustments.
