Ashuelot River Campground

Ashuelot River Campground is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of the Monadnock Region of southwestern New Hampshire. Located on 22 sprawling acres in Swanzey, this family-owned sanctuary offers a quintessential New England camping experience. With 3,600 feet of pristine river frontage, the campground provides a peaceful escape where the gentle flow of the Ashuelot River dictates the pace of the day. It is an ideal destination for those who want to immerse themselves in nature without sacrificing the comforts and community spirit that make for a memorable vacation. From wooded seclusion to open grassy fields, the variety of landscapes within the park ensures that every camper finds their perfect spot.

The atmosphere at Ashuelot River Campground is defined by a commitment to quiet, clean, and spacious living. The owners, Chuck and Laura Mills, have cultivated a "family-first" environment where respectful behavior is the standard, enforced by strictly observed quiet hours from 10:00 PM to 8:00 AM. This makes it a preferred choice for New Hampshire locals who are looking to trade the noise of daily life for the sounds of crackling campfires and the occasional call of a Great Blue Heron along the riverbanks. Whether you are a seasoned RVer or a first-time tenter, the warmth and hospitality found here make you feel like part of the family from the moment you check into the camp store.

Conveniently located at 152 Pine St, Swanzey, NH 03446, the campground is remarkably accessible while still feeling worlds away from the hustle and bustle. It is situated between downtown Keene and the mouth of the river, tucked away past a quiet residential area and framed by iconic covered bridges. For those coming from the Keene area, it is just a short drive to reach this riverside retreat. Visitors should be mindful of the historic covered bridges in the area, as some have low clearance and weight limits; however, following the specific directions provided by the campground ensures a safe arrival for larger RVs. The facility is also highly inclusive, featuring wheelchair-accessible entrances, parking lots, and restrooms, ensuring that everyone in the community can enjoy the outdoors.

The service offerings at Ashuelot River Campground are designed to cater to a diverse range of needs, ensuring a seamless stay for all guests. The campground provides a variety of site configurations and professional onsite services to enhance your experience. These services include:

• Approximately 75 sites featuring a mix of wooded, grassy, and river-line locations.
• Full RV hookups including both 30 and 50 amp electrical service, water, and sewer.
• Pull-through sites specifically designed to accommodate "big rigs" and ease of parking.
• Three rustic cabins (Hemlock, Maple, and Pine) for those seeking a sturdier roof over their heads.
• A well-stocked camp store offering ice, local firewood, candy, and essential camping supplies.
• On-site laundry facilities located conveniently within the game room area.
• Free Wi-Fi access available near the office and in various parts of the campground.
• Canoe, kayak, and bicycle rentals available for registered guests and day visitors.
• River shuttle services that transport you and your watercraft to various put-in points upstream.
• Convenient payment options accepting both credit and debit cards for all transactions.

The highlights of a stay at Ashuelot River Campground often revolve around the river and the extensive trail network that borders the property. The river is perfect for flat-water paddling and lazy-day tubing, with the slow-moving current providing a natural "conveyor belt" back toward your site. Beyond the water, the campground serves as a gateway to some of the best hiking and biking in the state. Key features and highlights include:

• Direct access to the Ashuelot Recreational Rail Trail, a 21-mile path perfect for biking and hiking toward Keene or Hinsdale.
• A robust game room equipped with pool tables, ping-pong, air hockey, and foosball for all-age entertainment.
• Outdoor recreation areas featuring a playground, horseshoe pits, and cornhole sets.
• A dog-friendly policy that allows leashed pets, including a nearby off-leash area in the Dickinson Memorial Forest.
• Proximity to six historic covered bridges, with a scenic 12.5-mile bike loop starting right from the campground.
• Kid-friendly hiking trails that wind through the adjacent town forest and along the river.
• Educational opportunities for birdwatching and nature observation within a rich riparian ecosystem.
• Spacious fire rings at every site designed for excellent airflow and minimal smoke.

For more information or to make a reservation, you can reach Ashuelot River Campground at (603) 357-5777. The office is open year-round for reservations, though camping is typically seasonal. The physical address is 152 Pine St, Swanzey, NH 03446, USA. Whether you are calling to inquire about site availability or to ask about current river conditions, the staff is known for being incredibly helpful and knowledgeable about the local Monadnock region.

What truly makes Ashuelot River Campground worth choosing is the balance it strikes between recreation and relaxation. It is rare to find a location that offers such high-quality river access alongside direct entry to a major rail trail system. The meticulous maintenance of the sites and the genuine kindness of the owners create an environment where you can truly "reset." For families, the combination of the playground, game room, and calm river tubing makes it a paradise for children. For couples or solo travelers, the quiet wooded sites offer a level of privacy that is often hard to find in larger commercial parks. Choosing this campground means supporting a local business that takes immense pride in preserving the natural beauty of the Ashuelot River for generations of New Hampshire campers to come.