The best family-friendly glamping near Manchester, New Hampshire

Lying on the Merrimack River in southern New Hampshire, Manchester promises year-round fun, from hiking and boating on lakes and rivers in summer to skiing and tubing at the city’s McIntyre Ski Area in winter. The city is also an arts and cultural destination that is home to the historic Palace Theatre and Currier Museum. In the heart of New England, Manchester also has a convenient location that’s within an hour’s drive of Boston and the Atlantic Ocean and less than two hours from the White Mountains, Lakes Region, and many other top destinations in Maine, Vermont, and Massachusetts.

98% (571)

Top-rated campgrounds

Lying on the Merrimack River in southern New Hampshire, Manchester promises year-round fun, from hiking and boating on lakes and rivers in summer to skiing and tubing at the city’s McIntyre Ski Area in winter. The city is also an arts and cultural destination that is home to the historic Palace Theatre and Currier Museum. In the heart of New England, Manchester also has a convenient location that’s within an hour’s drive of Boston and the Atlantic Ocean and less than two hours from the White Mountains, Lakes Region, and many other top destinations in Maine, Vermont, and Massachusetts.

98% (571)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Salamander Hollow Healing Habitat

100%

(529)

48mi from Manchester · 5 sites · Lodging · Warwick, MA

Best HipCamp Massachusetts 2023 Best HipCamp USA Finalist 2023 Best HipCamp Massachusetts Finalist 2022 THERE IS WIFI, PRIVATE HOT SHOWER and FLUSH TOILET. EXCEPT FOR THE RECENTLY ADDED TULLY 'THOREAU' ISLAND. Salamander Hollow is a private, evolving honeybee and human being sanctuary on 17 acres of land abutting Massachusetts State Forest. We currently have a one-room, wood stove warmed, cozy sleeping loft for one or two - with two benches below on either side of room - for two sleeping bags; plus, a separate 22 foot Sioux tipi with two cots. There are two chairs in the tipi, which if removed at night, make floor room for four other sleeping bags. 'Forest Bathing' for miles! If you're a larger group booking Salamander Hollow main camp with its Sleeping Library, Tipi & Slovenian Beehive House, you might consider renting this additional Tiny Cabin want to entertain all in glamping style, utilizing its amenities; as well, providing another bathroom/shower and guest bedroom for those who prefer being indoors while in the great outdoors. Note that Kula Bata Tiny Cabin abuts the wheelchair accessible larger bathroom/shower which is available to those at the Salamander Hollow main camp, yet you are secluded with your own private entry points and private bathroom. A ten minute drive takes you to the parking area to hike up Tully Mountain. There is a grill, wood fired pizza oven, two fire pits and a hygienic Incinolet electric toilet on the property for night convenience, with small camp sinks for washing & teeth brushing. Take a short hike off the property to organic Chase Hill Farm for milk, eggs, seasonal veggies, grass fed meat and other goodies. Say hello to their cows, chickens, pigs, goats, pups and kids. Nestled across the road from Salamander Hollow is Timber Haven Farm, where you can schedule your pickup of bacon and eggs, while loading up on delicious Owl Energy Bars for your adventurous excursions. For those interested in the glamping side of camping, you will enjoy a remote rustic experience with a few creature comforts to keep you well read, clean and fed. Please bring your own bedding - pillows, sleeping bags, comforter, teddy bears.There is a wall mounted blue tooth car radio/CD player in Sleeping Library, so bring your pre-digital favorites. Classical CDs to listen to. Lots of eclectic books to peruse.Walkie talkies, a set of 4, are available upon request. Chess & poker sets, too. Electric 2-burner stovetop and griddle upon request. Bring fire-starters/newspaper for tinder. We suggest if you are staying more than a night or two in winter, you bring supplemental wood or we can direct you to a nearby stand. Next season, our own cut and split wood will be seasoned and available on site. We ask that you carry out trash and recyclables. An established Western facing four point sacred Medicine Wheel site being established on Askari Ridge - our name for the slope starting with the two fire pits - 'Askari' being Swahili for night guard. Here is where we envision a great touch-point area for those leading groups to be for a base-camp by day or night, where eventually a multi-use tenting platform/performance stage will be constructed for outdoor entertainment, creating an authentic 'stadium style' seating on the hill. You will see on your way up to Salamander Hollow main clearing - the Kula Bata Tiny Kabin on the left of the dirt road- now available to rent with its small guest room for two, infrared sauna, hot shower, kitchenette, dishwasher and laundry.

2. Spacious Skies Minute Man Campground

94%

(86)

30mi from Manchester · 100 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Littleton, MA

Escape the bustle without sacrificing convenience at Spacious Skies Minute Man. Nestled in historic Littleton’s pine forests, our campground offers a peaceful retreat steps away from iconic National Historic Parks and Walden Pond. Choose wooded or open sites for your RV or tent, enjoy modern amenities like our heated pool and rec hall, and let the kids and pups run free in the playground and dog runs. Need a break from cooking? Our camp store has you covered, plus local restaurants deliver! Cozy cabins are also available. Don’t miss out on this unique blend of nature and city access – book your stay today! Relax in the heart of history at Spacious Skies Minute Man. Our campground’s tranquil, wooded setting near legendary Walden Pond and National Historic Parks offers the perfect escape from everyday life. Whether you’re in an RV, tent, or one of our cozy cabins, you’ll find everything you need for a comfortable adventure: picnic tables, fire rings, full hookups, plus a heated pool, playground, rec hall, and even dog runs for your furry companions. Need a break from camp cooking? Our well-stocked camp store has essentials, and nearby restaurants offer takeout and delivery options for those lazy campground evenings. Explore the rich history of the region, immerse yourself in nature’s tranquility, or take a quick trip into Boston – the choice is yours! Spacious Skies Minute Man provides a unique blend of outdoor adventure and urban access. Don’t miss your chance to experience the best of both worlds! Our prime location and fantastic amenities mean sites fill up quickly. Book your getaway today and create memories that will last a lifetime at Spacious Skies Minute Man.

3. Tiny House, Horse Trailer, S Tent

99%

(97)

24mi from Manchester · 5 sites · Lodging · Bennington, NH

Choose from a variety of unique accommodations situated on the Contoocook River and Powder Mill Pond in Southern NH at our 27 acre Rustic Chic Retreat. Find some info and links of several of the sites located on the property. Be it swimming, kayaking, boating, sunning, hiking, biking, or fishing; spectacular fall foliage, and bird watching or winter sports like skiing, boarding, ice skating, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing,....take time out to enjoy what nature has to offer to the fullest, right here in your new backyard. Explore nature’s wonderland; starting with 27 acres of woods and waterfront beauty on Powder Mill Pond and the Contoocook River. During the warmer weather, you can hop in one of the kayaks, canoes, and paddle boats, (on-site for a small rental fee), sunbathe on the refreshing 30 ft. lily pad, or simply relax in the swing or hammock looking out over Mount Monadnock. During the winter, cross country ski, ice skate or fish or strap-on a pair of the complimentary snowshoes ...while year round, enjoy sharing s’mores and stories by the fire pit! You can also explore several other accomodations listed on Airbnb if you do not find what you are looking for here.

4. Red Maple Farm Riverside Cabin

100%

(25)

23mi from Manchester · 2 sites · Lodging · Webster, NH

This 5 wooded acres site on the Blackwater River in rural central New Hampshire is surrounded by farmlands and woodlands. New in 2024 is a mini log cabin. Picnic table, screenhouse, 2 burner propane camp stove and campfire site completes this beautiful, peaceful camping area. There are stairs to access the river where you can float or swim in and enjoy nature at its finest. If peace and quiet is what you’re seeking this is the place for you!

Stories from the community

C

Clara

2 weeks ago

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Salamander Hollow Healing Habitat

Our group of Book Club friends had the most wonderful stay at Salamander Hollow Healing Habitat! From the moment we arrived, we felt welcomed and cared for. Mary is an exceptional host—warm, thoughtful, and genuinely invested in creating a magical experience for her guests. Thank you, Mary, for opening your beautiful space to us! One of the absolute highlights of our stay was the pizza oven. It was such a hit—easy to use, incredibly fun, and the perfect activity to bring everyone together. We made some truly delicious creations and shared plenty of laughs around it. We also loved the variety of sleeping options throughout the property. With so many different configurations, everyone in our group found a cozy, comfortable place to settle in. It made the whole weekend feel relaxed, flexible, and tailored to us. We’re already talking about coming back. Salamander Hollow is a gem!

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Tom

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Salamander Hollow Healing Habitat

The cabin/library was cozy, the tipi was super cool and bigger than I expected it to be. Bring a sleeping pad, the ones in the library were a little thin. Beautiful and very private site.

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stephen

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Salamander Hollow Healing Habitat

Mary, you could not be more welcoming and responsive to any needs (really appreciate you both coming out to show us how to close the wood stove door). Everything exceeded expectations and I can’t wait to make another (hopefully longer visit)!

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Bryan

October 2025

With pets

3 nights at Tiny House, Horse Trailer, S Tent

We loved camping at the site. The amenities were excellent, and the hot tub was super clean. Overall, the experience was 5 stars. This is in no way to denigrate or take away from the positive review. This is only a suggestion moving forward. When we arrived, we were informed that we were unable to use the fire pit because there was a statewide ban due to a drought in New Hampshire. This is no way the problem of the owner of the site. It is out of their control. However, it would have been nice to know upon booking as doing a campfire is an integral part of the camping experience. The site still receives 5 stars :) -Flynn

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Kai

October 2025

4 nights at Salamander Hollow Healing Habitat

I stayed in the island for four nights and had an incredible time. It is truly a magical spot. There is something special about paddling out and arriving on a small piece of ground where you are only one there - a sort of threshold. The house (while it is uninsulated and “rough” around the edges, “shack” does not do it justice) was clean, inviting, and thoughtfully stocked. I hope to return soon. And I definitely recommend!

m

October 2025

3 nights at Salamander Hollow Healing Habitat

Mary is an excellent hostess!! So very responsive, welcoming, and accommodating for all of our little needs. Everything was clean & fresh for our arrival. Directions are so very thorough, and Mary even gave us Texas gals a ton of awesome recommendations for some local digs. We are so very grateful for that, and our time there. Will be returning anytime I head back up to New England 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼

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Felicia

October 2025

1 night at Salamander Hollow Healing Habitat

We absolutely loved our stay! Mary was very informative and responded quickly when needed. Highly recommend and would definitely come back! Perfect for a weekend getaway.

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Shannon

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Tiny House, Horse Trailer, S Tent

We love this camp site! It literally has everything you would need! Morning coffee on the deck in the Adirondack chairs is the most peaceful and best way to start the day. We love taking the boats out on the lake and taking a dip in the hot tub. This was our third time going to this site and we are looking forward to coming back in the future!

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Amanda

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Salamander Hollow Healing Habitat

I loved the library and pizza oven! This was hands down the best trip I've had with this app yet. The bathroom was clean and had a space heater which was an amazing touch. The music that was set up on arrival added so much to the experience. And the host was so accommodating! I will absolutely be coming back for this site!

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Jennifer

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Salamander Hollow Healing Habitat

Mary was amazing about communicating and providing lots of recommendations. I was sad that I did not have any time for hiking around the area as she has some great trails that she sent over. The cabin was very clean and exactly as described. If you are looking for a relaxing cabin away from everything, I highly recommend staying here!

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Neil

October 2025

1 night at Salamander Hollow Healing Habitat

Really nice and private location, very relaxing evening

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Hannah

October 2025

1 night at Salamander Hollow Healing Habitat

We liked the hiking trails and the location. It’s in a quiet area just off the side of the road. It was so peaceful. Although we lived locally, it didn’t feel like we were so close to home. Highly recommend. The sauna was nice to warm you up after getting chilly outside at night after a fire. Mary was extremely helpful and kind to us during our stay.

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Janet

October 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Salamander Hollow Healing Habitat

How many people can say that they spent the night on a private island? We watched sunset and moonrise happen together in front of a campfire. We loved it. I enjoyed using the canoe to get to the island. It made it more of an adventure! It's pretty rustic. Don't expect a hotel and you won't be disappointed. We left our sleeping pads at home by mistake but made the best of what was there. No regrets, I would go back. There is no heat or electricity. That's nothing a good sleeping bag and headlamp won't take care of. I had the best sleep I have had in a long time. It's a great getaway without being too far away.

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Elias

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Salamander Hollow Healing Habitat

Tully island was the most incredible fairytale-like place. Mary was unbelievably kind and hospitable. Will be coming back.

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Barbara

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Salamander Hollow Healing Habitat

The cabin is cute and has everything you need. Might want to mention 4 wheel drive for driveway

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Whitney

September 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Salamander Hollow Healing Habitat

If you're looking for a place of rest and peace, this is it! I traveled to Mary's property with my husband, two children (11 and 9), and two large dogs (Newfies). We had plenty of space, lots of privacy, and such a comfortable stay. Each of us wished we could have spent more time here! We rented the beehive cabin, library, and tipi. The cabin was plenty spacious for my whole crew and was so cozy and comfy. We slept very well, even on a futon! The library was the kids' favorite hangout. The outdoor kitchen was awesome, and even though our wood-fired pizzas looked terrible (don't forget flour!), they were fun to make and tasted great. Our pups appreciated being able to be off lead for the first time on our New England road trip. We made the most of every square inch of Mary's space. From a yoga workout on the meditation platform, to s'mores around the fire pit, there's something for everyone here!

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Whitney

September 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Salamander Hollow Healing Habitat

If you’re looking for a place of peace and rest, this is it! I traveled to Mary’s property with my husband, children (11 and 9), and two large dogs (Newfies). Every single one of us loved it and wished we could stay longer. We rented the beehive cabin, library, and tepee. The cabin was plenty spacious for all of us, providing us great sleep, even on a futon! The library was the kids’ favorite place to relax and kick back. The outdoor kitchen was awesome, and even though our wood-fired pizzas looked awful (don’t forget flour to prevent sticking! 😅), they were fun to make and tasted great. We used just about every inch of the camp. I got in a morning yoga session on the meditation platform, and we roasted s’mores by the fire pit at night. Amenities and activities were close by, too! We hiked the Tully Mountain Loop Trail, and the views were beautiful! If you’re considering a visit, don’t hesitate! Both Mary and her property are one of a kind.

Nicholas

September 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Salamander Hollow Healing Habitat

Mary was so communicative and helpful before and during our trip. Her cabin and the island were such a nice escape from everything. Easy fishing off the dock, nice fire pit with gas grill adjacent. The cabin was very clean, well-equipped, and well-loved with lots of games, books, and nostalgic pieces throughout.

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Victoria

September 2025

2 nights at Salamander Hollow Healing Habitat

Beautiful, quiet cabin with all the amenities thoughtfully provided. Thoroughly enjoyed my stay and highly recommend!

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Christian

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Salamander Hollow Healing Habitat

Amazing place ! Great host ! Mary is the best!!! Highly recommend

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best family-friendly glamping near Manchester guide

Where to go

Massabesic Lake

About a 10-minute drive west of downtown, Massabesic Lake covers 2,500 acres and is a popular spot for boating, sailing, and fishing. Around 50 miles of multi-use trails surround the lake for use by hikers and bikers.

Lakes Region

Home to the state’s largest lake, Lake Winnipesaukee, as well as Squam Lake, Newfound Lake, Ossipee Lake, and Lake Sunapee, New Hampshire's Lakes Region offers an abundance of outdoor activities, from paddling and swimming in the summer to ice fishing and skating in the winter. On the southwest shore of Lake Winnipesaukee, camping is available at Ellacoya State Park Campground, an hour’s drive north of Manchester.

White Mountains

The hardwood forests, alpine peaks, and towering mountains of the White Mountains National Forest are less than two hours from Manchester. Within the area, Echo Lake State Park offers canoeing, kayaking, and mountain biking, while Crawford Notch State Park has waterfalls and camping at its Dry River Campground.

When to go

While spring and summer are the most popular times to visit, Manchester and its surrounding area are four-season destinations. Summer is perfect for getting out onto the water; fall offers the chance to enjoy the spectacle of the landscape blazing with rich hues as the leaves turn, while winter promises snowy adventures, from skiing to ice fishing.