Camping in Portsmouth, NH, US: 12 Best Campgrounds 2025

United States
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New Hampshire
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Portsmouth

98% (2521 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Portsmouth

Available this weekend

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Star Hosts in Portsmouth

98%

(23)

Duncan Lake Island

1 site · Tent1 acre · Center Ossipee, NH

Quiet and peaceful island in Duncan Lake, Ossipee, NH. Fall asleep listening to the loons, and wake up to beautiful sunrises! Approximately half an acre with plenty of level spots for tenting, great fishing (lake is stocked with trout), and excellent swimming. Property has a flat top Blackstone propane griddle (propane not provided), charcoal BBQ, and picnic table. Lots of hiking opportunities in the immediate area. Given the location, potential renters MUST have a canoe/kayak to access the land from the public beach. There are no restroom facilities of any kind, so please be prepared to pack in/pack out your preferred solution. Enjoy the serenity of this unique island oasis! Available May 1st - Oct 31st only. Parking is available at the public beach (Cleveland Beach).

100%

(5)

Rooted Heart Farm Yurt

1 site · Lodging4 acres · Buxton, ME

Rooted Heart Farm is a sweet little oasis about 30min west of Portland. With beautiful gardens, beautiful & talented people this little community has so much to offer. The biodiverse farm specializes in creating herbal wellness products from the highest quality farmed & foraged plants. The property itself, holds space for workshops, classes & events. Be sure to check out the monthly schedule of happenings. Yoga, movement, dance, therapeutic touch, energy healing, meditation, sound healing, child care and herbal wisdom walks can be scheduled upon request at an additional cost. "Root into your body, into your heart, into your knowing, into your place of power, where your body and essence are one. "

100%

(131)

Souhegan Shores

2 sites · RVs, Tents21 acres · Merrimack, NH

Winter Update: We've had hard ground freeze and then thaw and 2.5 inches of rain. So the roads in are passable to any type of vehicle when it refreezes, but can be sketchy to light vehicles after a thaw or more rain. Play it safe and please check in with your host to confirm your vehicle won't have difficulty getting back up the slight rise to exit the sites. (back to our regularly scheduled campsite description...) Site-1 is located under the trees adjacent to a 3 acre meadow and Christmas Tree farm. Camp near the bank of the Souhegan River in the shade of white pine, shag bark hickory and blue birch while listening to the river tumble over the ledges upstream. In season, enjoy the swimming hole 100 feet from your campsite. On the other side of the privacy fence is a pasture where two horses graze. If you don't like friendly dogs then you'll be better off on site 2 where we have a better chance of keeping our dog Wilson from dropping in to visit. He loves people too much not to want to greet folks on Site 1. Site-2 is located at the farthest most downstream end of the property and from mid-May to mid-October it is totally private. You'll see nothing from your site except for trees and the river. If you or your dog don't like other dogs, this is the site you want. Still no guarantee Wilson won't visit you, but it's easier to keep Wilson away from this corner of the property. The other side of the river is town conservation land so the only people you're likely to see will be passing by in kayaks or on paddleboards. In the dry season, both sites are a great place to start a float trip and you'll likely have the next 1.5 miles all to yourself since the rapids up stream become unpassable in July and August. If planning a winter trip, just check ahead to ensure your host has finished plowing the access road. If southern NH gets really clobbered with snow, check with your host about the possibility of constructing snow shelters. He's been known to mound up snow with the tractor. You are only two traffic lights away from the Merrimack Premium Outlet Mall should you need something to do during inclement weather.

98%

(84)

Boulder Brook

5 sites · Tents26 acres · Candia, NH

7/10/24 UPDATE: We are still not taking reservations due to a zoning issue with the town. Once we move into our new house on the property and open up our farm we hope to be taking reservations again. Please check back in September of 2024. Thanks! Secluded in the wilderness, Boulder Brook Hipcamp has private tent sites right next to a babbling brook. The access road is a nice gravel .6 mile long road that is not maintained in the Winter. There is firewood for sale via Venmo right in the parking area, $6 per bundle. There is also a nice outhouse. The sites have tent platforms and fire pits. There is quick access to the Rockingham Recreational Trail, which is ideal for walking, mountain biking, and exploring. There is also a great swimming hole nearby called Chivers Pond. Site 4 coming soon

100%

(19)

Bravenit Camp

2 sites · RVs, Tents50 acres · Lyman, ME

The camp sits on 50 acres of trails, forests, fields, and more. This special spot is tucked away in southern Maine, and only 25 minutes from Interstate 95. "Rustic" is a good word to describe Bravenit Camp, but it's so much more! Check out the horse barns, the pond, the stream, try fishing in the river (though it is hard to find), or write a poem in the Writers Cottage.

12 top campgrounds near Portsmouth

100%

(131)

Souhegan Shores

2 sites · RVs, Tents21 acres · Merrimack, NH

Winter Update: We've had hard ground freeze and then thaw and 2.5 inches of rain. So the roads in are passable to any type of vehicle when it refreezes, but can be sketchy to light vehicles after a thaw or more rain. Play it safe and please check in with your host to confirm your vehicle won't have difficulty getting back up the slight rise to exit the sites. (back to our regularly scheduled campsite description...) Site-1 is located under the trees adjacent to a 3 acre meadow and Christmas Tree farm. Camp near the bank of the Souhegan River in the shade of white pine, shag bark hickory and blue birch while listening to the river tumble over the ledges upstream. In season, enjoy the swimming hole 100 feet from your campsite. On the other side of the privacy fence is a pasture where two horses graze. If you don't like friendly dogs then you'll be better off on site 2 where we have a better chance of keeping our dog Wilson from dropping in to visit. He loves people too much not to want to greet folks on Site 1. Site-2 is located at the farthest most downstream end of the property and from mid-May to mid-October it is totally private. You'll see nothing from your site except for trees and the river. If you or your dog don't like other dogs, this is the site you want. Still no guarantee Wilson won't visit you, but it's easier to keep Wilson away from this corner of the property. The other side of the river is town conservation land so the only people you're likely to see will be passing by in kayaks or on paddleboards. In the dry season, both sites are a great place to start a float trip and you'll likely have the next 1.5 miles all to yourself since the rapids up stream become unpassable in July and August. If planning a winter trip, just check ahead to ensure your host has finished plowing the access road. If southern NH gets really clobbered with snow, check with your host about the possibility of constructing snow shelters. He's been known to mound up snow with the tractor. You are only two traffic lights away from the Merrimack Premium Outlet Mall should you need something to do during inclement weather.

F.a.C Campout

9 sites · Tents30 acres · Exeter, NH

A shared space for the animals and the artist. We are working on becoming sustainable into the future where we can gather to work on our art in a loving natural and healthy environment. We welcome you to come relax and rejuvinate on this sacred ground. We ask you respectfully carry in carry out any trash. The farm can accommodate and accept your empty recyclables and compostable material (meat is NOT an allowed compost item). Please arrive before dark to guarantee reservation as meet and greet required as well as to be shown area. Our family practices kindness and encourages community. #NFA ⚡

Boulder Brook

5 sites · Tents26 acres · Candia, NH

7/10/24 UPDATE: We are still not taking reservations due to a zoning issue with the town. Once we move into our new house on the property and open up our farm we hope to be taking reservations again. Please check back in September of 2024. Thanks! Secluded in the wilderness, Boulder Brook Hipcamp has private tent sites right next to a babbling brook. The access road is a nice gravel .6 mile long road that is not maintained in the Winter. There is firewood for sale via Venmo right in the parking area, $6 per bundle. There is also a nice outhouse. The sites have tent platforms and fire pits. There is quick access to the Rockingham Recreational Trail, which is ideal for walking, mountain biking, and exploring. There is also a great swimming hole nearby called Chivers Pond. Site 4 coming soon

Yurty Expectations Conga Camp Maine

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Parsonsfield, ME

Learn more about this land: Very quiet and relaxing adventure surrounds you. Miles of trails, local sites hilltop views, warm white sand lakes to swim. Bikes, a few kayaks lots of trails. Wood heated Yurt , snow shoes, ice cleats ,Wood-fired hot tub YEAR-ROUND But you'll need 4 or more in your group and at least 2 nights Additional Hot tub useage criteria Just some add on extras available on request ahead of your stay. Hot tub use With 2 persons and a 2 night stay -additional fee $115 . Hot tub for 3 people and again 2 night stay additional $85 This property is one large Yurt can easily fit up to 7 adults or more if children or teen group. The last two weekends just prior to Halloween a large regional organization turns an old academy into a 25 room Haunted House..called The Haunting there is a fee and only 5 minutes away. We've been to it a number of times it is great

Bravenit Camp

2 sites · RVs, Tents50 acres · Lyman, ME

The camp sits on 50 acres of trails, forests, fields, and more. This special spot is tucked away in southern Maine, and only 25 minutes from Interstate 95. "Rustic" is a good word to describe Bravenit Camp, but it's so much more! Check out the horse barns, the pond, the stream, try fishing in the river (though it is hard to find), or write a poem in the Writers Cottage.

Elm Street parking spot

1 site · RV1 acre · Goffstown, NH

use the driveway for overnight parking . ( please leave room for neighbor to back up to get out )I’m on a lake so you are welcome to enjoy the deck overlooking the water . swimming or just floating . not far from town with restaurants , grocery , gas . no bathroom and no hookups . there is a trash can. there’s a town beach and boat launch not far . i just want to offer a place to park overnight

Quiet rural organic property

1 site · RV2 acres · East Kingston, NH

Learn more about this land:Only suitable for campers and RV's with their own toilet facilities. Site is level gravel driveway with use of backyard fire pit and table. Only one camper unit per night allowed in quiet rural neighborhood on small organic property. Seasonal organic vegetables, fruit and farm-fresh eggs available. Electric is 20 amp, so please check your air conditioner requirements. Can accommodate up to 40 ft unit. Pets welcome. 15 minutes from Kingston Lake State Park, 30 minutes from Hampton Beach State Park.

Rooted Heart Farm Yurt

1 site · Lodging4 acres · Buxton, ME

Rooted Heart Farm is a sweet little oasis about 30min west of Portland. With beautiful gardens, beautiful & talented people this little community has so much to offer. The biodiverse farm specializes in creating herbal wellness products from the highest quality farmed & foraged plants. The property itself, holds space for workshops, classes & events. Be sure to check out the monthly schedule of happenings. Yoga, movement, dance, therapeutic touch, energy healing, meditation, sound healing, child care and herbal wisdom walks can be scheduled upon request at an additional cost. "Root into your body, into your heart, into your knowing, into your place of power, where your body and essence are one. "

Duncan Lake Island

1 site · Tent1 acre · Center Ossipee, NH

Quiet and peaceful island in Duncan Lake, Ossipee, NH. Fall asleep listening to the loons, and wake up to beautiful sunrises! Approximately half an acre with plenty of level spots for tenting, great fishing (lake is stocked with trout), and excellent swimming. Property has a flat top Blackstone propane griddle (propane not provided), charcoal BBQ, and picnic table. Lots of hiking opportunities in the immediate area. Given the location, potential renters MUST have a canoe/kayak to access the land from the public beach. There are no restroom facilities of any kind, so please be prepared to pack in/pack out your preferred solution. Enjoy the serenity of this unique island oasis! Available May 1st - Oct 31st only. Parking is available at the public beach (Cleveland Beach).

98%

(604)

Campers Welcome to The Wolf Swamp.

14 sites · RVs, Tents52 acres · Canterbury, NH

The property used to be part of the old Johanson farm, it was a 200 acre dairy farm a hundred years ago. when the State put in the highway (I-93) in 1961 it split the farmland in half. The old stagecoach road which runs through the property from Canterbury Station to Northfield Station is now part of the main trails system. The early Pony Express riders dubbed the swamp on the land "Wolf Swamp", because there were many reports of riders seeing Wolves in the Swamp. The property is very open, although the sites are very spread out and secluded for ultimate privacy. There are several great hiking trails on the property, also used by local mountain bikers and Horseback Riding. Occasionally there will be an ATV or Dirt Bike passing through. We are located in the Heart of the local Trail system. There are several great places to swim and Kayak or Canoe literally around the corner. There are also lots of great local attractions close by, many that have Farm Stores, Shops, Homemade Gifts, Breads, Pies, Cheeses and we even have a few local Breweries. There is something for everyone, just ask and we will point you in the Right Direction.

99%

(35)

Spacious Skies Walnut Grove Campground

86 sites · Lodging, RVs10 acres · Alfred, ME

Escape to Spacious Skies Walnut Grove, a family-friendly campground nestled in the heart of scenic Southern Maine. Whether you’re arriving in an RV, pitching a tent, or seeking a cozy cabin, our spacious sites and range of amenities will make your stay unforgettable. Kids will love the pool, playground, and rec hall, while the whole family can explore nearby beaches, historic towns, and Shaker Pond. Plus, enjoy free Wi-Fi and easy access to the excitement of Portland and Kennebunkport. Book your adventure today and discover the perfect blend of outdoor fun and modern convenience! Imagine relaxing evenings by your own campfire, with easy access to the best of Southern Maine! Our spacious sites fit all types of campers, with water and electrical hookups, plus optional sewer, cable, and 50-amp service. Whether you’re rolling in with the RV or cozying up in a tent, we have the perfect spot to call your home away from home. Seeking a more rustic feel? Our charming camping cabins provide a comfortable basecamp, complete with bunk beds, a fridge, cable TV, and a porch for those classic Maine summer nights. Picture the kids splashing in the pool or bouncing on the jumping pillow while you soak up the sun. With trails to explore, a well-stocked store, and even free Wi-Fi, we combine the joy of the outdoors with those creature comforts you crave. Spacious Skies Walnut Grove is your gateway to Southern Maine. Unwind at Old Orchard Beach, stroll the streets of Kennebunkport, or immerse yourself in Portland’s vibrant scene – all within easy reach. Closer to camp, Shaker Pond awaits with fishing and paddle boating, while ATV trails promise nearby thrills. Ready to create unforgettable memories? Book your stay now and experience the magic of camping in Maine!

100%

(3)

Homestead Farm Retreat

2 sites · RVs, Tents8 acres · Gilmanton, NH

Privately nestled in a historic farming community, this RV and tent site offers views of fields and distant hills. Surrounded by conservation land with maintained walking trails leading to Meeting House Pond (46 acres), guests can enjoy public fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. The owners reside on-site, but not in view, in a charming 1790s farmhouse. The property is within walking distance to Meeting House Pond, and the Meeting House Cemetery where Grace Metalious, author of "Peyton Place," is buried. The conservation land features a rare flax retting pond, adding to the unique experience. Whether you seek a secluded spot for your RV, camper, or tent activities to enrich your stay, this site offers a delightful glimpse into early American life. As a new addition to HipCamp, we eagerly await your feedback.

Under $50

100%

(131)

Souhegan Shores

2 sites · RVs, Tents21 acres · Merrimack, NH

Winter Update: We've had hard ground freeze and then thaw and 2.5 inches of rain. So the roads in are passable to any type of vehicle when it refreezes, but can be sketchy to light vehicles after a thaw or more rain. Play it safe and please check in with your host to confirm your vehicle won't have difficulty getting back up the slight rise to exit the sites. (back to our regularly scheduled campsite description...) Site-1 is located under the trees adjacent to a 3 acre meadow and Christmas Tree farm. Camp near the bank of the Souhegan River in the shade of white pine, shag bark hickory and blue birch while listening to the river tumble over the ledges upstream. In season, enjoy the swimming hole 100 feet from your campsite. On the other side of the privacy fence is a pasture where two horses graze. If you don't like friendly dogs then you'll be better off on site 2 where we have a better chance of keeping our dog Wilson from dropping in to visit. He loves people too much not to want to greet folks on Site 1. Site-2 is located at the farthest most downstream end of the property and from mid-May to mid-October it is totally private. You'll see nothing from your site except for trees and the river. If you or your dog don't like other dogs, this is the site you want. Still no guarantee Wilson won't visit you, but it's easier to keep Wilson away from this corner of the property. The other side of the river is town conservation land so the only people you're likely to see will be passing by in kayaks or on paddleboards. In the dry season, both sites are a great place to start a float trip and you'll likely have the next 1.5 miles all to yourself since the rapids up stream become unpassable in July and August. If planning a winter trip, just check ahead to ensure your host has finished plowing the access road. If southern NH gets really clobbered with snow, check with your host about the possibility of constructing snow shelters. He's been known to mound up snow with the tractor. You are only two traffic lights away from the Merrimack Premium Outlet Mall should you need something to do during inclement weather.

F.a.C Campout

9 sites · Tents30 acres · Exeter, NH

A shared space for the animals and the artist. We are working on becoming sustainable into the future where we can gather to work on our art in a loving natural and healthy environment. We welcome you to come relax and rejuvinate on this sacred ground. We ask you respectfully carry in carry out any trash. The farm can accommodate and accept your empty recyclables and compostable material (meat is NOT an allowed compost item). Please arrive before dark to guarantee reservation as meet and greet required as well as to be shown area. Our family practices kindness and encourages community. #NFA ⚡

Yurty Expectations Conga Camp Maine

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Parsonsfield, ME

Learn more about this land: Very quiet and relaxing adventure surrounds you. Miles of trails, local sites hilltop views, warm white sand lakes to swim. Bikes, a few kayaks lots of trails. Wood heated Yurt , snow shoes, ice cleats ,Wood-fired hot tub YEAR-ROUND But you'll need 4 or more in your group and at least 2 nights Additional Hot tub useage criteria Just some add on extras available on request ahead of your stay. Hot tub use With 2 persons and a 2 night stay -additional fee $115 . Hot tub for 3 people and again 2 night stay additional $85 This property is one large Yurt can easily fit up to 7 adults or more if children or teen group. The last two weekends just prior to Halloween a large regional organization turns an old academy into a 25 room Haunted House..called The Haunting there is a fee and only 5 minutes away. We've been to it a number of times it is great

Elm Street parking spot

1 site · RV1 acre · Goffstown, NH

use the driveway for overnight parking . ( please leave room for neighbor to back up to get out )I’m on a lake so you are welcome to enjoy the deck overlooking the water . swimming or just floating . not far from town with restaurants , grocery , gas . no bathroom and no hookups . there is a trash can. there’s a town beach and boat launch not far . i just want to offer a place to park overnight

Boulder Brook

5 sites · Tents26 acres · Candia, NH

7/10/24 UPDATE: We are still not taking reservations due to a zoning issue with the town. Once we move into our new house on the property and open up our farm we hope to be taking reservations again. Please check back in September of 2024. Thanks! Secluded in the wilderness, Boulder Brook Hipcamp has private tent sites right next to a babbling brook. The access road is a nice gravel .6 mile long road that is not maintained in the Winter. There is firewood for sale via Venmo right in the parking area, $6 per bundle. There is also a nice outhouse. The sites have tent platforms and fire pits. There is quick access to the Rockingham Recreational Trail, which is ideal for walking, mountain biking, and exploring. There is also a great swimming hole nearby called Chivers Pond. Site 4 coming soon

Dog-friendly getaways

100%

(19)

Bravenit Camp

2 sites · RVs, Tents50 acres · Lyman, ME

The camp sits on 50 acres of trails, forests, fields, and more. This special spot is tucked away in southern Maine, and only 25 minutes from Interstate 95. "Rustic" is a good word to describe Bravenit Camp, but it's so much more! Check out the horse barns, the pond, the stream, try fishing in the river (though it is hard to find), or write a poem in the Writers Cottage.

Boulder Brook

5 sites · Tents26 acres · Candia, NH

7/10/24 UPDATE: We are still not taking reservations due to a zoning issue with the town. Once we move into our new house on the property and open up our farm we hope to be taking reservations again. Please check back in September of 2024. Thanks! Secluded in the wilderness, Boulder Brook Hipcamp has private tent sites right next to a babbling brook. The access road is a nice gravel .6 mile long road that is not maintained in the Winter. There is firewood for sale via Venmo right in the parking area, $6 per bundle. There is also a nice outhouse. The sites have tent platforms and fire pits. There is quick access to the Rockingham Recreational Trail, which is ideal for walking, mountain biking, and exploring. There is also a great swimming hole nearby called Chivers Pond. Site 4 coming soon

Elm Street parking spot

1 site · RV1 acre · Goffstown, NH

use the driveway for overnight parking . ( please leave room for neighbor to back up to get out )I’m on a lake so you are welcome to enjoy the deck overlooking the water . swimming or just floating . not far from town with restaurants , grocery , gas . no bathroom and no hookups . there is a trash can. there’s a town beach and boat launch not far . i just want to offer a place to park overnight

Yurty Expectations Conga Camp Maine

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Parsonsfield, ME

Learn more about this land: Very quiet and relaxing adventure surrounds you. Miles of trails, local sites hilltop views, warm white sand lakes to swim. Bikes, a few kayaks lots of trails. Wood heated Yurt , snow shoes, ice cleats ,Wood-fired hot tub YEAR-ROUND But you'll need 4 or more in your group and at least 2 nights Additional Hot tub useage criteria Just some add on extras available on request ahead of your stay. Hot tub use With 2 persons and a 2 night stay -additional fee $115 . Hot tub for 3 people and again 2 night stay additional $85 This property is one large Yurt can easily fit up to 7 adults or more if children or teen group. The last two weekends just prior to Halloween a large regional organization turns an old academy into a 25 room Haunted House..called The Haunting there is a fee and only 5 minutes away. We've been to it a number of times it is great

Souhegan Shores

2 sites · RVs, Tents21 acres · Merrimack, NH

Winter Update: We've had hard ground freeze and then thaw and 2.5 inches of rain. So the roads in are passable to any type of vehicle when it refreezes, but can be sketchy to light vehicles after a thaw or more rain. Play it safe and please check in with your host to confirm your vehicle won't have difficulty getting back up the slight rise to exit the sites. (back to our regularly scheduled campsite description...) Site-1 is located under the trees adjacent to a 3 acre meadow and Christmas Tree farm. Camp near the bank of the Souhegan River in the shade of white pine, shag bark hickory and blue birch while listening to the river tumble over the ledges upstream. In season, enjoy the swimming hole 100 feet from your campsite. On the other side of the privacy fence is a pasture where two horses graze. If you don't like friendly dogs then you'll be better off on site 2 where we have a better chance of keeping our dog Wilson from dropping in to visit. He loves people too much not to want to greet folks on Site 1. Site-2 is located at the farthest most downstream end of the property and from mid-May to mid-October it is totally private. You'll see nothing from your site except for trees and the river. If you or your dog don't like other dogs, this is the site you want. Still no guarantee Wilson won't visit you, but it's easier to keep Wilson away from this corner of the property. The other side of the river is town conservation land so the only people you're likely to see will be passing by in kayaks or on paddleboards. In the dry season, both sites are a great place to start a float trip and you'll likely have the next 1.5 miles all to yourself since the rapids up stream become unpassable in July and August. If planning a winter trip, just check ahead to ensure your host has finished plowing the access road. If southern NH gets really clobbered with snow, check with your host about the possibility of constructing snow shelters. He's been known to mound up snow with the tractor. You are only two traffic lights away from the Merrimack Premium Outlet Mall should you need something to do during inclement weather.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

Pawtuckaway State Park: site 43 and site 44 on Horse Head Island are both large private sites with direct lake access.

100%

(14)

Pawtuckaway State Park

Raymond, New Hampshire

100%

(2)

Bear Brook State Park

Suncook, New Hampshire

Morning sunrises light up the open evergreen woods.

88%

(8)

Harold Parker State Forest

Andover, Massachusetts

Hampton Beach State Park

Hampton Beach, New Hampshire

Ellacoya State Park

Laconia, New Hampshire

70%

(8)

Salisbury Beach State Reservation

Salisbury, Massachusetts

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Camping near Portsmouth guide

Overview

As a port city, Portsmouth is an urban and cultural campground—but that doesn’t mean it’s lacking for any nature. Located on the New Hampshire side of the Maine border, Portsmouth and its surroundings embrace the best of two states. History and architecture enthusiasts can peruse Portsmouth’s historic landmarks and the Strawberry Banke Museum. Meanwhile, lovers of the great outdoors will find just as much to do, both in town and beyond. Portsmouth overlooks the Piscataqua River, while lakes, state parks, and a wildlife refuge are nestled just outside the city.

Where to go

Along the coast

Drive alongside the Atlantic Ocean, where state parks sit right on the beach. History lovers will enjoy the military history of Odiorne Point State Park. Further down the coast, you can fish, swim, and picnic at Rye Harbor State Park or Jenness State Beach. After a dip in the Atlantic, check into your campsite. RV, cabin, and tent campsites dot the area, so you can easily find one, no matter where you stop.

The Great Bay

Head further inland without sacrificing your water access. The Great Bay River runs just outside Portsmouth, while the Great Bay National Wildlife Refuge spans more than 1,000 acres. The trails are suitable for all kinds of hikers—not to mention unique birds and wildlife. See what you can see. Portsmouth, NH camping is as enjoyable around the river as it is the Atlantic Ocean.

Pop into Maine

You’re as close to Maine as you are to New Hampshire, so don’t ignore the parks and beaches across the border. Hike at the Kittery Town Forest, or, if you’d rather a taste of local history, learn all about the military at Fort McClary State Historic Site. You can spend the night in the state of your choosing. But, before you head back to New Hampshire, savor a lobster roll at a campground with a picnic area.

When to go

The Atlantic Ocean gets cold even in the summertime, so if you want a seaside getaway, come in the warm months. With your choice of beach, you can spend the day fishing, hiking, canoeing, and swimming. However, don’t overlook Portsmouth in the off-seasons. The city offers plenty of indoor activities, so you can easily plan a winter camping trip to explore museums and military sites.