Camping opportunities near Wilmot, New Hampshire span varied terrain across the Dartmouth-Lake Sunapee region, with elevations ranging from 700 to 1,300 feet. The area experiences distinct seasonal changes with summer daytime temperatures typically reaching 75-85°F, while evenings cool to 50-60°F even during peak season. Most campgrounds operate from mid-May through mid-October with limited availability during shoulder seasons.
What to do
River activities: 25¢ per quarter. Near Baker River Campground, visitors enjoy river recreation with multiple access points. "The campground was nice. The site we had was an open grassy area though we tucked the tent off to the side. On the other side of the roped banking was a beautiful view of the river. The showers were nice and they were free! There is also a beach with great fishing!"
Mountain biking trails: 2-10 miles. The region offers access to numerous trails ranging from beginner to advanced difficulty. At Moose Hillock Camping Resort, campers can access nearby trails. "Family friendly campground. Short drive to see wildlife from the road," notes one visitor, highlighting the natural surroundings that make this area appealing for outdoor enthusiasts.
Lazy river floating: 2-3 hour experience. Plymouth Sands Camping Area offers direct river access for tubing. A camper shares, "My favorite activity was putting in a couple miles up river and floating back to camp over the course of a few hours, ultimate lazy river." The slow-moving current makes this an ideal activity for relaxation during summer months.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: 60-80% tree coverage. Quechee State Park Campground offers secluded camping spaces with natural buffers. "The campsites are all wooded. Some are private, while others are a little crowded together. The park is dog-friendly, which we always appreciate," notes one reviewer. Sites vary in size and privacy levels throughout the campground.
Climbing access: 5-10 minute drive. Baker River Campground serves as a practical base for rock climbers. A visitor reports, "Nice private campground. Bathrooms were clean and recently remodeled. Host is extremely nice and welcoming. We have stayed here on multiple occasions when in the Rumney area for climbing and biking."
Yurt camping options: year-round availability. Several campgrounds near Wilmot offer yurt accommodations as alternatives to traditional camping. A visitor to Quechee-Pine Valley KOA explains, "Quechee/Pine Valley KOA campground offers so much, even for people who don't like to camp. There are campgrounds for all types of camping and they have Cabins for people who act like they enjoy camping but would rather be in a cabin then on the ground."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: spotty coverage. Most campgrounds in the region have limited connectivity. At Moose Hillock, "No WiFi or cell service except by the pool which can be hard if you need to be contacted. Cable tv at sites was available and intermittent quality."
Seasonal operation: mid-May to mid-October. Most facilities close during winter months. "We were at the campground while the water was fairly low, so it was great for kids," notes a visitor to Plymouth Sands, indicating that conditions vary throughout the operating season.
Bathroom facilities: quarter-operated showers. Keyser Pond Campground and others typically charge for showers. "Showers were hot (low pressure though) and not free, at $0.25/5 min," reports one camper, providing specific details about the facilities available.
Yurt accommodations near Wilmot: reservation required. Permanent yurt structures at area campgrounds often book 3-6 months in advance, especially for summer weekends and fall foliage season. Check each campground's specific policies regarding minimum stays for yurt rentals.
Tips for camping with families
Playground availability: varies by location. At Crow's Nest Campground, families find kid-friendly amenities. "This campground has nice, quiet, shaded riverside sites and other sites options as well. Nice pool. Port-a potty by the river needs to be replaced," notes one visitor, highlighting both the positives and areas for improvement.
Swimming options: river vs. pool. Multiple campgrounds offer water recreation. "There's nice little swimming area on the river for kids," mentions a Crow's Nest visitor, while another camper at Moose Hillock describes "awesome pool with a pirate ship that has 2 slides, night swimming, entertainment on some nights."
Noise considerations: weekend increases. Family-oriented campgrounds can become louder during weekends. A Quechee State Park visitor explains, "Camping was fairly quiet, except for the noise from the road, which is very close to the park. I think the best part was waking up early to explore the gorge without the crowds."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: bring blocks. Many campsites in the region require leveling equipment. "Sites are not fully level but leveling blocks took care of it," notes one visitor to Quechee State Park.
Hookup availability: varies widely. Some campgrounds offer full hookups while others have more limited options. A Sandy Beach Campground reviewer explains, "Small but well organized campground. TT members will find all the comforts of home. Staff is pleasant and helpful. Quiet during the weekdays, picks up over weekends but not to overbearing."
Dump station access: most campgrounds provide. Facilities for waste disposal are generally available though sometimes for an additional fee. "Cost for non-campers to use the dump is an astonishing $40, which can't be right, but that's what the sign said. I'd confirm that with the office though," advises a Keyser Pond camper.
