The best waterside campgrounds near Portsmouth, New Hampshire

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.

97% (1.7K) • 3 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Portsmouth

Browns Ridge Family Farm!

1. Browns Ridge Family Farm!

98%

(22)

43mi from Portsmouth · 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

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.

97% (1.7K) • 3 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Portsmouth

Browns Ridge Family Farm!

1. Browns Ridge Family Farm!

98%

(22)

43mi from Portsmouth · 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

Portsmouth camping guide

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.