- Waterside Camping
The best waterside camping near Manchester
97% (2.8K) • 154 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Manchester
Tiny House, Horse Trailer, S Tent
1. Tiny House, Horse Trailer, S Tent
99%
(98)
24mi from Manchester · 3 sites
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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$135
/ night
Browns Ridge Family Farm!
2. Browns Ridge Family Farm!
98%
(22)
49mi from Manchester · 3 sites · Tents, Lodging
We are one of the first farms in Wolfeboro, New Hampshire and was originally the first stage coach stop for the area. Our house built in 1750s and at one point had hundreds of acres passed down which were passed down
from a kings grant The original area was named after the original settlers, the Browns. Our house was also tavern in the beginning. This property has only passed hands through 4 families and remained with the Browns for most of its life.
It has stayed as a farm for most of its tenure. We own 40 acres of pasture and woods and would love for you to come stay!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$50
/ night
Tipi Camping at Thunder K Ranch
3. Tipi Camping at Thunder K Ranch
41mi from Manchester · 1 site
We are excited to offer this amazing tipi camping experience on our working horse property. The tipi design is the basic Sioux design; the makers of our tipi were chosen to provide all the tipis for the movie Dances with Wolves because of their respect for authenticity and excellent craftsmanship.
The tipi is 18' W x 15' H. Inside, it is roughly 16' in diameter and 13'2" high. It has a 6' entrance with a zippered door and mosquito mesh. There is mosquito netting around the top smoke flaps and a critter guard mesh that covers the bottom circumference where the tipi and floor meet. To keep things warm on those chilly nights or take the edge off the crisp morning air, there is a small wood pellet stove inside.
There is a queen-size futon and plenty of space to sleep on the floor with your own sleeping bags or cots. The maximum occupancy is 6 people. The campsite setup is a mixture of Indigenous and Cowboy Western culture. It features a dining area close to the tipi with a picnic table.
You can relax at the fire pit area beside the Kampfire Cauldron (handmade on-site!) and enjoy cookouts, campfires, and great conversations with friends and family while listening to the calm waters of Giles Brook a few feet away.
Firewood is included in your stay. An outhouse is also located nearby, so you don’t have to entirely "rough it." Potable water can be provided if you do not bring your own.
Local activities include: hiking trails, parks, lakes, horseback rides, kayaking, fishing, motorsports, relaxing by the creek on-site, axe throwing, range, skiing/tubing, and so much more!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$154
/ night
Lake Dennison Recreation Area
4. Lake Dennison Recreation Area
83%
(3)
State park 40mi from Manchester · 147 sites
Discover the natural allure of Lake Dennison Recreation Area.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
97% (2.8K) • 154 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Manchester
Tiny House, Horse Trailer, S Tent
1. Tiny House, Horse Trailer, S Tent
99%
(98)
24mi from Manchester · 3 sites
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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$135
/ night
Browns Ridge Family Farm!
2. Browns Ridge Family Farm!
98%
(22)
49mi from Manchester · 3 sites · Tents, Lodging
We are one of the first farms in Wolfeboro, New Hampshire and was originally the first stage coach stop for the area. Our house built in 1750s and at one point had hundreds of acres passed down which were passed down
from a kings grant The original area was named after the original settlers, the Browns. Our house was also tavern in the beginning. This property has only passed hands through 4 families and remained with the Browns for most of its life.
It has stayed as a farm for most of its tenure. We own 40 acres of pasture and woods and would love for you to come stay!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$50
/ night
Tipi Camping at Thunder K Ranch
3. Tipi Camping at Thunder K Ranch
41mi from Manchester · 1 site
We are excited to offer this amazing tipi camping experience on our working horse property. The tipi design is the basic Sioux design; the makers of our tipi were chosen to provide all the tipis for the movie Dances with Wolves because of their respect for authenticity and excellent craftsmanship.
The tipi is 18' W x 15' H. Inside, it is roughly 16' in diameter and 13'2" high. It has a 6' entrance with a zippered door and mosquito mesh. There is mosquito netting around the top smoke flaps and a critter guard mesh that covers the bottom circumference where the tipi and floor meet. To keep things warm on those chilly nights or take the edge off the crisp morning air, there is a small wood pellet stove inside.
There is a queen-size futon and plenty of space to sleep on the floor with your own sleeping bags or cots. The maximum occupancy is 6 people. The campsite setup is a mixture of Indigenous and Cowboy Western culture. It features a dining area close to the tipi with a picnic table.
You can relax at the fire pit area beside the Kampfire Cauldron (handmade on-site!) and enjoy cookouts, campfires, and great conversations with friends and family while listening to the calm waters of Giles Brook a few feet away.
Firewood is included in your stay. An outhouse is also located nearby, so you don’t have to entirely "rough it." Potable water can be provided if you do not bring your own.
Local activities include: hiking trails, parks, lakes, horseback rides, kayaking, fishing, motorsports, relaxing by the creek on-site, axe throwing, range, skiing/tubing, and so much more!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$154
/ night
Lake Dennison Recreation Area
4. Lake Dennison Recreation Area
83%
(3)
State park 40mi from Manchester · 147 sites
Discover the natural allure of Lake Dennison Recreation Area.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
c
courtney
February 2026
Weekend Trip to Tiny House, Horse Trailer, S Tent
Enjoyed our stay! Everyone was very friendly and the guides provided were awesome!
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B
Bryan
October 2025
With pets
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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S
Shannon
October 2025
With kids
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!
See moreJ
James
September 2025
With pets
This is a great camping spot. The nearby waterfall provides a constant blanket of sound that insulates you from the outside world so it feels very isolated without being "in the middle of nowhere". It is well equipped with everything you could need (except food & clothes) and the host provides lots of info about local things to do.
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S
Stephanie
September 2025
With pets
Cozy peaceful slot. Well run by ownership. Close amenities if any food or drink items are needed. Great fishing views and everything you need for a nice little escape.
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J
Jessica
September 2025
With kids
Certainly better accommodations than expected. The tent site was private and had all the essentials you could need. Just bring your fishing rod, a meal, and your favorite drink. Our children loved “living” on the tent site for the weekend. They are already asking the next time we can go. Thank you for a perfect weekend to bid farewell to summer.
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Heather
September 2025
4 nights at Tiny House, Horse Trailer, S Tent
This spot was so cute! The teeny house where I stayed with my dogs was great and had updates from what is seen in the listing. I was surprised that there were like no bugs, didn’t have to spray the site at all. They aren’t kidding about it being “teeny” though- you can’t open the door all the way to get in haha but it was great otherwise!
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g
gosia
August 2025
With pets
This was a unique and fun experience! I think the Horse Trailer is the Best Option! Just enough space for 2 people and 2 dogs. Waking up you have a front view of the picture perfect water view. Bond fire available and grill. Two swinging tree chairs were very comfy and a great place to sit down with a morning coffee and see the natural beauty around you. From kayaks, to hot tub, to hiking, so much to do! The owner and manager was super helpful and friendly. Defiantly would come back!
See morec
cody
August 2025
With pets
We loved the teeny tiny house, it was so cute. It was great to wake up and have coffee right on the water especially being able to paddle around on our personal rowboat. It had everything we needed. The bed is a little firm so bring extra blankets if that's not your thing, but we were comfortable. The amenities were affordably priced and everyone there was so friendly.
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M
Maria
August 2025
With pets
My family and I loved the quiet and peaceful place, sleeping with the sound of the water, getting up, lighting the bonfire, and above all, our two dogs accompanied us and enjoyed themselves. It was two unforgettable days.
Samantha was very kind and showed us everything we had access to. I hope it's a place to return to soon.
See moreL
Liz
August 2025
With pets
The safari tent site is perfect. Very private. The screen house was awesome for when it got a bit too buggy or for games when it was drizzling. We had a great time.
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H
Heather
August 2025
Weekend Trip to Tiny House, Horse Trailer, S Tent
We were very pleased with The Rustic Chic Retreat. The site we rented had the mini renovated horse trailer. It is unique, clean, comfortable and very well stocked. The whole site is amazing! You’ve got your own bathroom shed, fire pit with available wood, multiple chairs for lounging, a covered and screened eating area, ability to shower and wash dishes, your own jug of water which is refillable, not to mention the beautiful view of Powder Mill Pond! Everything in and on the trailer was easy to operate. We were able to follow the train tracks and walk to the quaint downtown area for breakfast and visit the general store. We borrowed a boat to enjoy the pond which is available at the small campground beach. There’s even a bench swing, gazebo and hot tub available on the grounds! This was our first time glamping (we always tent camp) and now realize what a treat it is to have everything there already, things you may not have thought about. For us, this was better than renting a hotel room to get away for three days! Honestly, I just wanted to stay there longer. Thank you so so much, Donna, we love your place!
See moreM
Mollie
July 2025
With pets
This place was adorable! I have the best time with my partner and small dogs 🩷 very clean !
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J
Jack
July 2025
With kids
We had a perfect stay at the Safari Tent - what a beautiful spot with a perfect setup and caring hospitality. The camp site felt secluded and private, yet not far from our car if we needed to get something. The tent with air mattresses worked well (they even had spares just in case), while the screened-in dining area, clean latrine, fire pit with chairs and ample firewood supply, as well as sturdy picnic table with work bench for our cooking setup made our site feel complete and comfortable with minimal effort. The best part was the sound of the waterfall had me sleeping like a baby all night :)
We made use of the kayaks for fishing and racing across the scenic pond, and the hot tub in the evening to relax after a day of adventuring. Lots to see in the region - I highly recommend the White Birch General Store in town for fine coffee and sandwiches, and Pack Monadnock mountain for a good hike that leads to spectacular views!
Our host was very welcoming, gave us space to be on our own but provided prompt support when we reached out with questions. I'd be very happy to visit again, and recommend this place to those seeking an easy and beautiful place to stay.
See moreL
Lorraine
July 2025
Weekend Trip to Tiny House, Horse Trailer, S Tent
All you need to do is show up! They thought of everything you need and provided it. Loved this spot, private, quiet and peaceful.
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A
Ashley
July 2025
With pets
We had a great time in the Teeny House! It was so peaceful and relaxing. We spent most of our time sitting on the deck and just enjoying the quiet. We did use the little beach they have available and our dog LOVED it, she played fetch for hours and happily frolicked in the sand. We will absolutely be back at some point and for a longer stay for sure!
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T
T
July 2025
3 nights at Tiny House, Horse Trailer, S Tent
They thought of everything when putting this campsite together. Absolutely gorgeous location and Donna was so nice and helpful.
See moreK
Kyle
July 2025
Weekend Trip to Tiny House, Horse Trailer, S Tent
Great spot for a weekend getaway. Lots of activities to do on the lake and surrounding area
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H
Hannah
June 2025
Weekend Trip to Tiny House, Horse Trailer, S Tent
My husband and I had a beautiful weekend relaxing in the Teeny Tiny House! <3 Chilly weekend but we had a blast. Trailhead up the tracks, gorgeous views, peaceful campsite, hot tub, and so many thoughtful amenities. Just what we needed! Looking forward to returning!:)
See moreJ
Jordyn
June 2025
Weekend Trip to Tiny House, Horse Trailer, S Tent
Me and my two friends had a wonderful stay at the safari tent! Donna was super informative and welcoming. The tent itself had everything we needed including storage and lanterns. They also recently added another outdoor patio area that was tented in that was perfect for food and games away from bugs (which there were a lot of, not that there is much they can do about that). Would come again!
See moreManchester camping 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.
