Pawtuckaway State Park

4.46

90 reviews

128 Mountain Rd, Nottingham, New Hampshire, 03290, United States

Summer Destination

Featured in:Beach Camping New Hampshire Boating Camping New Hampshire Group Camping New Hampshire +6 more

Quick Facts

335 ft

Price

$5 - $10/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

195 campsites

Season

Pets are allowed in ...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Check Policy

RV FriendlyShowers

Opens NH State Parks site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

335 ft

Price

$5 - $10/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

195 campsites

Season

Pets are allowed in ...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Check Policy

RV FriendlyShowers

Opens NH State Parks site

Official Website

Get Directions

Pawtuckaway State Park

$5.00 - $10.00 / night

Campsite Fees

The nightly base site fee covers 2 adults and up to 4 dependent children under 18. Extra adults are $10 per night, additional children are $5 per...

Standard Site Fee$0.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Reserve America

Provider

6038953031nhparks@dncr.nh.gov

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What Campers Say

4.46

Recommended

Based on 90 reviews

1921 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewsshowersspacioushiking

Some mention

noisecell service

"User reviews highlight the park's natural beauty, variety of activities, and clean facilities. However, issues with noise during peak seasons and motorboat traffic on the lake are common complaints."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

128 Mountain Rd, Nottingham, New Hampshire, 03290, United States

Pawtuckaway State Park

128 Mountain Rd, Nottingham, New Hampshire, 03290, United States

Driving directionsFrom I-93: Take Route 101 east to Exit 5 and follow signs to Pawtuckaway State Park. From I-95: Take Route 101 west to Exit 5 and follow signs to Pawtuckaway State Park. GPS Address: 128 Mountain Road Nottingham, NH. Once you have entered this, continue down Mountain Road until you see a large brown sign on the left for Pawtuckaway State Park. The road starts in Raymond, NH and ends in Nottingham, NH.

Accessible via paved roads, with clear signage from Route 101 exit 5. No information on seasonal closures or challenging terrain.

Nearby places

Manchester, NH (Approx. 40 minutes west)

Hampton Beach RV Park (Closest RV camping on the coast, Approx. 40 minutes east).

Nearby supplies

Greater than 1 mile: Fuel and vehicles

Within 10 miles: Cash Machine/ATM, Churches, Convenience Store, Emergency Services, Restaurant

Greater than 10 miles: Hospital, Laundry, Medical Clinic.

Best Time to Camp at Pawtuckaway State Park

Experience the dramatic beauty of New Hampshire's changing seasons at Pawtuckaway, where each visit promises something new. Autumn transforms the campground into a breathtaking canvas of crimson, gold, and amber—a spectacle that draws photographers and nature lovers from across the region. Summer brings warm days perfect for swimming and cool evenings ideal for campfire stories. Spring awakens the forest with wildflowers and birdsong, while winter offers a peaceful, snow-draped wonderland for the hardy few. Be prepared to disconnect from the digital world—cell service is limited throughout the park, adding to the authentic wilderness experience. For emergencies, a reliable pay phone is available at the park office.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

3.0 / 5

Popular and activity-rich in summer but crowded, noisy and mosquito-prone per reviews.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Fall offers quieter conditions and stunning foliage; reviews praise autumn visits.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.5 / 5

Spring has returning wildlife and activities, though bugs and variable weather are factors.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

2.5 / 5

Winter activities available but not widely reviewed; limited information on amenities in winter.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: /t. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Pets are allowed in the campground (excluding youth group sites) only from October 1 through November 1. They are not allowed from May 1 to September 30.
Current Alerts: Pets are prohibited from May 1 to September 30.

About Pawtuckaway State Park

Nestled in the heart of southern New Hampshire, Pawtuckaway State Park Campground offers an enchanting escape where 195 secluded woodland sites await your arrival. This sought-after destination perfectly balances accessibility to the seacoast and Manchester with the tranquility of nature. Wake up to filtered sunlight through towering trees and glimpses of the shimmering lake beyond. Each thoughtfully designed campsite comes complete with its own parking space, level tent pad, welcoming picnic table, and traditional stone-ringed fireplace for those memorable evening gatherings. Adventure beckons at every turn—paddle across mirror-like waters, cast a line for the catch of the day, explore winding hiking trails, or challenge yourself on mountain bike paths. Modern comforts blend seamlessly with the wilderness experience, featuring clean restrooms with running water, round-the-clock hot showers (coin-operated), convenient boat launch access, and a well-stocked camp store. For those who prefer to explore by water, canoes and paddle boats are available for rent, opening up new perspectives of this stunning landscape.

Pawtuckaway State Park accommodates various camping preferences, including tent camping, RV sites, group sites, and cabin rentals.

Historical Significance/t

Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic beauty of New Hampshire's changing seasons at Pawtuckaway, where each visit promises something new. Autumn transforms the campground into a breathtaking canvas of crimson, gold, and amber—a spectacle that draws photographers and nature lovers from across the region. Summer brings warm days perfect for swimming and cool evenings ideal for campfire stories. Spring awakens the forest with wildflowers and birdsong, while winter offers a peaceful, snow-draped wonderland for the hardy few. Be prepared to disconnect from the digital world—cell service is limited throughout the park, adding to the authentic wilderness experience. For emergencies, a reliable pay phone is available at the park office.

Elevation/t

Natural Features and SceneryStep into a landscape that feels both ancient and timeless at Pawtuckaway. Massive glacial boulders, some the size of small houses, lie scattered throughout the open forest like sleeping giants, creating a natural playground that captivates children and adults alike. The campground's unique setting features mature trees with minimal understory, allowing clear sightlines through the woods and creating an airy, cathedral-like atmosphere. The centerpiece of this natural wonderland is the pristine lake, its waters reflecting the surrounding forest and sky, offering endless opportunities for contemplation and recreation. This distinctive terrain tells the story of Ice Age forces that shaped New Hampshire's landscape thousands of years ago.

Geological RegionDiscover the quintessential beauty of Southern New Hampshire's lake region, where ancient geology meets modern recreation. This remarkable landscape showcases the region's signature features: dense forests punctuated by dramatic rock formations, crystal-clear lakes carved by glaciers, and rolling terrain that offers both challenge and reward to explorers. The area's unique geological heritage has created a diverse ecosystem where granite outcroppings meet wetlands, and hardwood forests transition to evergreen groves, providing habitat for abundant wildlife and endless opportunities for outdoor adventure.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Check-in time not explicitly stated.

Check-out

11 AM

Stay Limit

Maximum per site: one trailer (tent or travel) and one tent
OR one motorhome and one tent
OR two large tents.

Guests Allowed Per Site

One trailer, motorhome, or two large tents per site.

Groups

Group sites are spacious and can accommodate multiple tents and families.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground includes loops and sections such as Big Island and Horse Island. Some sites are near facilities like bathrooms, while others offer waterfront access.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Reserve America Call Center at 1-877-647-2757.

Walk-in AvailabilityThe park is reservations only. No walk-ins allowed.

Cancellation PolicyFull refund minus transaction fee if canceled at least 10+ days prior to arrival. Refund minus reservation fee and cost of one night of camping if canceled 4-9 days prior to arrival. No refund for cancellations 0-3 days before arrival. Refund requests after the arrival date must be submitted in writing or emailed within 14 days of departure.

AccessibilityFacilities include handicap-accessible restrooms and designated parking areas. However, some users noted challenges in reaching certain areas, like the beach, for individuals with mobility issues.

Site SizeSites are described as spacious, some reviewers specifically mention sites large enough for multiple families.

PrivacyPrivacy levels are praised compared to other campgrounds, with wooded surrounds and some boulder separations.

Total Campsites195 campsites

Recommended SitesWaterfront sites are particularly scenic and desirable. Sites closer to facilities might be preferred for convenience. Smaller or sloped sites may be less comfortable.

Amenities available

Showers

Potable water

Flush toilets

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Firewood available

Activities you can enjoy

Pawtuckaway State Park offers a wide range of recreational activities suitable for all ages. Visitors engage in hiking, mountain biking, swimming, kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. The park features a large playground and a family-friendly beach.

HikingNumerous trails are available, ranging from easy to moderate. The fire tower trail provides stunning views, and the Giant Boulders area is a highlight. Trails can be challenging with rocks and roots, and some may become flooded after rain.

ClimbingClimbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.

FishingFishing is popular, with catches including bass and pickerel. Kayakers and canoeists often fish along the lake edges.

SwimmingThe beach features a sandy area surrounded by pine trees, with shaded picnic spots and grills. There is no lifeguard on duty, and the water reaches a maximum depth of ~7 feet. Users warn of occasional bacterial blooms.

BikingMountain biking trails include everything from beginner-friendly routes to technical paths. Night rides with lights have been described as 'amazing.'

BoatingKayak and canoe rentals are available. Visitors can also bring their own boats, with launches accessible at the main park and Fundy area. Motorboat traffic can be a concern for kayakers.

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsUser reviews highlight wasps, mosquitoes, and motorboat activity as potential hazards. Bathrooms have occasional drainage issues.

Active AlertsPets are prohibited from May 1 to September 30.

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Fire PolicyCampfires are limited to designated open fireplaces at campsites. Visitors are required to purchase firewood on-site.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10 PM to 7 AM

Emergency ServicesEmergency Police/Fire/Ambulance - 911; Park Office Phone for emergencies: 603-895-3031.

Trash & RecyclingThe campground follows a carry-in, carry-out trash policy. Recycling facilities are available on-site.

Water FeaturesThe campground is situated on a lake, providing ample opportunity for waterfront camping, swimming, kayaking, and canoeing.

Camp HostNo specific information provided about campground hosts.

Weather at Pawtuckaway State Park

Reviews

4.5

90 reviews

Recommended

Pawtuckaway State Park is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews highlight the park's natural beauty, variety of activities, and clean facilities. However, issues with noise during peak seasons and motorboat traffic on the lake are common complaints.

Review Summaries

Based on 90 reviews

What Campers Love

Users praise the spacious sites, beautiful lake views, and well-maintained facilities. The availability of hot showers, a well-stocked camp store, and range of activities like hiking and kayaking are...

Based on 90 reviews

Common Concerns

Crowded conditions during peak times, noise from motorboats and nearby campers, mosquito prevalence, and occasional cleanliness issues in cabins and bathrooms are commonly mentioned.

Based on 90 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Book waterfront sites or group sites for added convenience and views. Bring shower shoes and mosquito repellent. Avoid visiting on holidays or weekends if seeking a quieter experience.

Based on 90 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is popular but crowded, with many families and high noise levels. Fall offers quieter conditions and stunning foliage. Winter activities are available but not widely reviewed.

Based on 90 reviews

Camper Quotes

- 'Absolutely stunning hidden gem. We rented a tandem kayak, visited many little islands, and had the most peaceful day.' - Tim Labrecque - 'Camping here is really nice, with very little poison ivy,...

Based on 90 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site #62 and Site #116 are highly praised for their views and privacy. Some reviewers note the importance of choosing sites carefully, as some are uneven or too close to others.

Based on 90 reviews

Accessibility Features

Some users with mobility challenges mentioned difficulty accessing areas like the beach and canoe launch. Restrooms are handicap-accessible but may pose minor challenges due to occasional drainage...

Based on 90 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed in the campground only during certain seasons (October 1 to November 1). Users appreciate this flexibility but note that pets are prohibited during peak summer months.

Based on 90 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026

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