The best camping near Fort McClary State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Fort McClary State Park adventure.

Discover the historic charm of Fort McClary State Park.  

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Top-rated campgrounds near Fort McClary State Park

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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. So now there are a hundred acres on each side of the Highway. 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.
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Someday Farm and Forest

16 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Canterbury, NH
Once this property was part of a large chicken farm, the fields were hayed and still are. There are 12 sites, although this indicates 15- Site 1, 5 and 12 are also insta book (giving 15) so please check availability before insta booking. Be sure to see Calendar at bottom of this page. The meadow filled with water after some logging occurred about 70 years ago creating the swamp. Recently, a small farm has been built here that includes some alpacas, a llama, ducks, chickens, kitties and a rescue dog named Miss Oklahoma from her home state, commonly called 'Oakie', Beautiful farmland with livestock, including alpacas! An open field, forest, walking trails and a peaceful swamp with wildlife is all at your disposal while you are here at Someday Farm! We have a total of 12 sites for your enjoyment, there are a few sites here (Site 1, 5 and Site 12) that allow campers and tow behinds. Others may work but no guarantee's. We are in central NH only an hour from Boston off of I 93, and less than 30 miles away from the famous Lake Winnipesaukee, we are perched on a picturesque dirt road in the beautiful country town of Canterbury New Hampshire. Whether you are up for just hanging at your campsite, exploring the swamp, picnic in the field overlooking the swamp, visiting the animals, or visiting around town, hiking nearby trials, we are here for your stay! We have easy-to-access rustic style camping accommodations for all sized parties traveling with tents, travel trailers or small campers. All of our sites offer potable water, solar shower bags, parking, fire pits, and a picnic table. NEW THIS YEAR...We have a new Welcome Center! It will be complete with a game section, dry firewood bundles, replenished shower bags and camp showers, water, fire starter kits, also, extra supplies for purchase such as drinking water, bug spray and some homemade items, eggs, toiletries and some other items to purchase with cash (honor system) or Venmo or PayPal. Check it out! You don't need to purchase extras online if you'd rather pay here with a cost savings for you :) Onsite also, is a small library inside the Carraige House, let me know if you need a book. An outside sink is available for your needs, located between 8 and 9 - Look for "The Kitchen Sink". Blackberry picking Aug-Sept. New to campers this year. 1 pint free and then $5.00 a pint-honor system. Also, New this year is Site 11, is complete last July, Under the Stars, across from 9 and 10. And the new Common Area-Strickly foot traffic only, this is a space to enjoy the open sky with a table, firepit and a grill for anyone's use. If you don't want to bring a grill and don't want to cook on grates. It is a first come first serve basis. But maybe your neighbors' will all come and cook with you? New too! Cornhole!! Setup on weekends along the drive and next to the Common Area, find the bags in Welcome Center. The Shelf had many games, please return when not in use. Once you are confirmed an email is sent offering 30 places around the beautiful town that you may visit at your leisure, including Shaker Village, Canterbury Ale works, Canterbury Woods Golf course, Hackleboro Orchards, our own Canterbury Country Store-1 mile away, Cold Garden Sprits is a new small distillery that is fascinating! If you need more city life amenities like grocery stores or restaurants, the capitol city of Concord to the south, and the town of Tilton and Laconia to the north, are a breeze to access and are less than 20 minutes away. Direct bookings and advanced reservations are no problem, and we also try to accommodate last minute bookings whenever we can. Feel free to msg me or call for questions and information. Checkout our onsite shop (Someday Farm Market) at the barn for our own handmade/homemade items and some Alpaca products also for sale May - Nov. Also, be sure to check out all the extras (you have to review the extras. to purchase firewood) offered here while you are booking your stay! You can also msg me to purchase firewood and other items once you are on site. There is firewood in each site for your arrival, but if you use it, you pay the $8.00, if you order it online, no worries it's there for you already, and extra can be bought and delivered during your stay. CALENDAR 2024 Happenings... March 17 - St Patty's Day March 19 - 1st Day of Spring. March 25 - Worm Moon. April 15 - May 15 Bookings during this time is 5% off. April 22 - Earth Day - Make a booking on this day for 10% off - cash rebate! April 24 - Pink Moon. May 15 - ends the 5% off bookings. May 23 - Flower Moon. May 27 - Memorial Day - Free bundle of firewood on this day only. June - 1st Sat - Kayaking on local pond. June 16 - Fathers Day - Dads get free coffee with Alpacas with 1 coffee purchase. June 22 - Strawberry Moon July 4 - Stay for the 4th and attend the Canterbury Festivities. July 21 - Buck Moon. July 27 - Canterbury Fair - biggest one day country fair. Aug 11-17 - Book this week and join the Meteor Shower viewing Aug 12 10:00 p.m. Takes Place in the field with a personal touch for each group. Aug-Sept - Blackberry picking, New to campers this year, First pint free, $5.00 each pint after that. Aug 19 - Sturgeon Moon. Aug - last week - Haying hands-on farm experience. Sep 2 - Labor Day - Free Glass of wine to relax on your day off for campers here on this day- afternoon pouring. Sept 18 - Harvest Moon. Sept 22 - First day of Fall - Free bundle of Firewood on this day only. Sept - end of Blackberry season. Oct 14 - Columbus Day Oct - 17 Hunters Moon Nov 11 - Veterans Day 10% of for anyone who has served our Country and a free coffee with animals with a coffee purchase. Nov - 15 Beaver Moon Dec - 15 Cold Moon Happy Camping!
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Souhegan Shores

2 sites · RVs, Tents21 acres · Merrimack, NH
4Jun'24 Update: The road in to the sites is mostly dried out and the soft spots are firming up. All the same, if we get a deluge of rain this June like we did last year, please don't drive to Merrimack and book the site 10 minutes before your expected arrival. (I think somebody must have booked it from my driveway once) Best to check first with your host to ensure the access road is passable to your type of vehicle. (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 above 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 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 can better keep 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 downstream end of the property and from mid-May to mid-October it is completely private. You'll see nothing from your site but trees and the river. If you or your dog don't like 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 canoes or kayaks. Now that TENTRR has gone bankrupt, Site 2 is available year round. 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 upstream 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. You are only two traffic lights away from the Merrimack Premium Outlet Mall should you need something to do during inclement weather.
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F.a.C Campout

8 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 in required as well as to be shown area. Our family practices kindness and encourages community. #NFA ⚡
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Pitch Perfect at Canterbrook

12 sites · RVs, Tents300 acres · Canterbury, NH
Formerly a competitive equestrian event facility, Pitch Perfect at Canterbrook is situated on a 300+ acre property consisting of agricultural farm land of all types. We have hills, streams, ponds, wetlands, meadows, and heavily wooded areas available for your exploration. Situated only an hour from Boston off of I 93, and less than 30 miles away from the famous Lake Winnipesaukee, we are perched on a picturesque dirt road in the beautiful country town of Canterbury New Hampshire. Popular attractions within a stone’s throw from us include; a gorgeous walk back in time at Canterbury’s Shaker Village, Golfing at Canterbury Woods, a unique pint of ale at Canterbury Aleworks, fabulous pick-your-own fruits and vegetables at Hackleboro Orchard, OR if you find yourself running low on supplies, Canterbury Country Store boasts having at least one of everything and is situated only one mile away from your campsite! If you need more city life amenities like grocery stores or restaurants, the capitol city of Concord to the south, and the town of Tilton to the north, are a breeze to access and are less than 20 minutes away.
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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) 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 boat launch. 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.
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Spacious Skies Walnut Grove Campground

96 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!
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$56
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Hussey Mountain Tree Farm

7 sites · RVs, Tents87 acres · Farmington, NH
ATFS Certified Tree Farm Est. 2004 Camp with your group at our private Tree Farm / Conservation / Recreation Area. Established in 2004, we are an 87 acre ATFS certified Tree Farm located in the Blue Hills Range in the Foothills to NH’s White Mountains. Choose one of our three unique sites / outdoor spaces to best fit your camping needs; book the entire property for total privacy or for events. Our Farm spans the northerly side of Hussey Mountain from the base to the summit. Guests are provided with private access to several miles of multi-use nature trails, multiple scenic lookouts, a three acre PYO blueberry maze, and a dock on our private eight acre pond with available boat rentals. At parking, guests are provided with a portable toilet, outdoor solar shower, garden hose for washing, a power strip for charging devices, and a spigot with potable water for filling containers. Over two decades ago we created our first campsite for the purpose of hosting family and friends. Folks enjoyed camping on the mountain so much they often would choose our farm over traditional campgrounds. Hosting campers became a regular weekend event, and to accommodate more people we created two more sites spread out across the property. In 2020, we came across the Hipcamp app and started offering private reservations to the public. Since, we have been hosting campers on a daily basis and continuously improving our sites / infrastructure / views. We’re excited to see what the next two decades hold; come join us on the mountain! Things to do on the mountain SPRING-FALL include... Hiking on several miles of maintained nature trails marked with clear signage for easy day/night navigation. Relaxing/taking in the scenery from several scenic lookouts located on and around the mountain’s summit; combined they provide a 360-degree view spanning from the NH/ME Seacoast to the White Mountains of NH, to the Green Mountains of VT. Fishing, paddling, swimming, or relaxing on our dock. Bird/wildlife watching, berry picking, stargazing and leaf peeping. This is a place you can easily spend a few days and keep busy! That said, if you’re looking to venture off-mountain and explore we’re in a great area to do that. We’re located only 7 minutes off Exit 14, NH Route 16 N. Places to visit nearby include... Baxter lake (public access) 5 minutes south. Portsmouth 25 minutes south. Lake Winnipesaukee 20 minutes north. Gunstock mountain resort 25 minutes north. NH’s White Mountains 40 minutes north. Conway 1 hour north. Things to do on the mountain in WINTER include... With snow, our unique network of forestry trails and glades are transformed into downhill ski/snowboard runs, snowshoe routes, and snowmobile trails. Site 1 Base Camp becomes ski-in, ski-out and is our only available site during ski season.
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Watersrock Woods

2 sites · Tents4 acres · Limerick, ME
A secluded tent and camp location in the beautiful Southern Maine forest. Lots of pine trees. Property is adjacent to a small brook which is great for fishing and relaxing. A swimming hole is located a short walking distance from the camp site. Very peaceful. Great for camping, fishing & relaxing!
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Highland Basecamp

1 site · RV, Tent2 acres · Northfield, NH
At Highland Basecamp you will find a driveway for RV parking and a backyard for tent set up. Running water and electric can also be provided. A nice and quiet setting only a five minute bike ride to Highland bike park and a 20 min drive to several other awesome trails systems in the area. About a ten minute drive to shopping and restaurants in town. There's also a fire pit available for use. Outdoor shower with hot water available. Toilet will be available June 1st. There is a toilet that comes June 1st. Outdoor shower also available in may though it will be cold some nights and early mornings. Now introducing a new cabin tent, need a quick place to stay? Don’t have room for extra gear? Book the tent by messaging me directly for availability. Thank you for staying
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Bakers Island Light Campsite

3 sites · Tents10 acres · Beverly, MA
Bakers Island Light Station is located on Bakers Island in Salem Sound, a 60-acre island with a large summer colony. The lighthouse stands at 59 feet tall and continues to guide ships in and out of Salem Harbor with an alternating 20-second white-red light. The 10-acre light station, which includes six historic structures such as two keepers houses, an oil house, and a lantern room (now operating as a gift shop), is located in the northwest quadrant of the island and was formally owned and operated by the US Coast Guard. The rest of the island is in private ownership including the Bakers Island Wharf. The deed to historic Bakers Island Light Station was transferred on August 27, 2014, from the United States government to the Essex National Heritage Commission (Essex Heritage). Learn more about this land: Rated #1 Hipcamp site in Massachusetts by Outdoor Magazine in 2020! Enjoy the sights and sounds of off-the-grid coastal living at the Bakers Island Light Station Campsite. Set up your tent on a raised platform and take in the beauty of Salem Sound. Meet the summer lighthouse keepers, stroll through island trails, and unwind...just three miles off the coast of Salem! Getting to camp: PLEASE READ - the only way to get to Bakers Island Light Campsite is by boat. You have three options: 1) Use your own kayaks and paddle out to our beach (this is recommended for advanced kayakers only). 2) Take our landing craft, Naumkeag, out to the island for $70 per person. (Boat departs from Blaney Street dock on Friday at noon and picks you up from the Island on Sunday at noon). FREE overnight parking is available there. 3) Take your own boat, and rent a mooring for $59 a night (you will need your own dinghy to get ashore). Essex Heritage is the non-profit organization that operates and maintains the 10-acre light station at Bakers Island, with the mission of public access and preservation.  IMPORTANT: The $60 per night fee covers 4 people per site. The absolute capacity for each site is 4 people, and you must provide us the name of each guest prior to arrival. TRANSPORTATION: Bakers Island Light Station is a remote island located in Salem Sound. There are a few ways to get there, including taking the Essex Heritage landing craft (additional fee per person) from Salem, renting a mooring at the light station for your own boat, or kayaking. ALL CAMPERS MUST ARRANGE TRANSPORTATION AFTER BOOKING. DETAILS WILL BE SENT FOLLOWING CONFIRMATION OF BOOKING.
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Island View At Kiwanis Beach

3 sites · Lodging50 acres · Standish, ME
Enjoy unforgettable sunrises and sunsets at your own private sandy beach on 448 acres of Watchic Lake. Perfect for kayaking, canoeing, fishing, Loon watching and pristine swimming! Break away from the chaos of everyday life and have a relaxing getaway on your own private sandy beach. At Island View at Kiwanis Beach you have your own inlet where you can fish, swim, canoe on 448 acres of water. listen to the loon warn their young when the American Bald Eagles are over head. Enjoy the beautiful sunsets over the lake. Local amenities include Hiking, walking trails, Farmers Market, local shops and Restaurants. if you chose to explore, White Mountains and North Conway Outlet stores, 45 minutes away ! Or the Atlantic ocean; Casco Bay, Old port of Portland, Old Orchard Beach and Saco Bay are 30 minutes away! Accommodations are large canvas tent on platform, with queen size bed. Picnic tables, 2 Adirondack chairs, easy-up canopy, firepit, 5 gallon water cooler, Coleman stove, cooler, lanterns, trash can, fire extinguisher and first aid kit, and portable toilet.
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The best camping near Fort McClary State Park guide

Overview

About

Step into the past and adventure through the scenic landscapes of Fort McClary State Park. With its rich history and panoramic views, the park invites visitors to explore its historic fortifications and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. From picnicking amid the coastal beauty to delving into centuries-old military architecture, Fort McClary is a treasure trove for history buffs and nature enthusiasts alike.

When to go

The ideal time to visit Fort McClary State Park is between Memorial Day and Columbus Day, when the park is open daily from 10am to sunset. Off-season adventurers can still access the park by parking outside the gate and walking in, but facilities are closed during this time.

Know before you go

  • Check the Bureau's Safety page for access updates before your visit.
  • Entrance fees are charged during the main season; always have cash on hand for convenience.
  • While the park is open from Memorial Day to Columbus Day, facilities are closed off-season.
  • Accessibility information is available for visitors with disabilities; see Visitor Accessibility for details.
  • For group gatherings, consider reserving the group picnic shelter in advance.

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