Hampton Beach State Park (South)
00 review8 State Park Rd., Hampton, New Hampshire, 03842, United States
Hampton Beach State Park (South)
$15.00 - $70.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$70.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees vary by site type, with standard camping starting at $15 and higher fees up to $70 for premium sites. NH Senior Citizens are eligible for a $5 discount per night (excluding certain campgrounds). NH State Employees receive a 50% discount on campsites (excluding yurts and cabins).
About this campground
Experience the rare luxury of RV camping directly on New Hampshire's stunning coastline at Hampton Beach State Park RV Campground. This exclusive oceanfront retreat offers just 28 thoughtfully spaced sites with full hookups, each positioned to capture the essence of coastal living. Nestled where the Hampton River meets the Atlantic Ocean, this is New Hampshire's only RV park that lets you fall asleep to the sound of waves and wake up to salt-kissed morning air.
Hampton Beach State Park is exclusively for RV camping, offering sites with full hookups for water, sewer, and electricity. Tents, pop-ups, and other non-RV accommodations are not permitted. The campground features 28 sites, with some offering oceanfront views.
Historical SignificanceImmerse yourself in the rich maritime heritage of New Hampshire's beloved Seacoast Region. From your campsite, you're perfectly positioned to explore centuries of coastal tradition, from historic fishing villages to modern-day whale watching expeditions. Join experienced captains for unforgettable deep-sea fishing charters, or witness the majesty of humpback and finback whales in their natural habitat. The area's seafaring culture comes alive through local festivals, fresh seafood markets, and stories shared by generations of coastal families.
Weather and SeasonsHampton Beach enjoys a classic New England coastal climate that transforms with each season. Summer brings warm, sun-drenched days perfect for beach activities, while gentle sea breezes keep temperatures comfortable. Winter transforms the landscape into a serene, frost-touched wonderland where dedicated beachcombers can enjoy peaceful solitude. Spring and fall offer crisp, clear days ideal for coastal exploration, with moderate temperatures and occasional refreshing rain showers that enhance the maritime atmosphere.
ElevationPerched at sea level where land meets ocean, the campground offers an intimate connection with the Atlantic's rhythmic tides and ever-changing moods.
Natural Features and SceneryWake up to panoramic views of pristine sandy beaches stretching as far as the eye can see, where the Atlantic Ocean's sapphire waters meet New Hampshire's golden shores. The campground's prime location at the Hampton River mouth creates a unique ecosystem where freshwater mingles with the sea, attracting diverse wildlife and creating spectacular sunrise and sunset vistas. Visitors consistently marvel at the expansive beachfront, where miles of walkable coastline invite morning strolls through fresh salt air and evening walks under star-filled skies.
Geological RegionDiscover the dramatic beauty of New Hampshire's Seacoast Region, where ancient granite formations meet sandy Atlantic beaches. This remarkable stretch of coastline represents millions of years of geological artistry, with the Hampton River carving its path to the sea through coastal plains. The campground sits at this dynamic intersection, offering front-row seats to nature's ongoing sculpture of sand dunes, tidal pools, and the ever-shifting boundary between river and ocean.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground is relatively flat and directly accessible from paved roads, offering ease of movement. However, accessibility reviews are unavailable to confirm further details.
Sites SizeSite sizes are standard and tailored to accommodate RVs with full hookups. Specific measurements are not provided.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is minimal as the campground is arranged in a parking-lot style layout without significant vegetation or barriers between sites.
Total Campsites28 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor oceanfront views, choose site 15 or 16. Sites closer to the beach offer better proximity.
Best CampsitesSite 15 (closest to the ocean) and site 16 (offering great views).
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 12:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is by 11:00 AM.
Stay Limit
Maximum camping duration is 14 consecutive or accumulative days from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Exact number unknown.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampground consists of 28 RV-only sites with full hookups, arranged in a parking lot-style layout.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round, with the RV campground operational from early May to late October.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are made exclusively through Reserve America. Call 1-877-647-2757 or visit their website.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot applicable for RV sites; reservations are required for all stays.
Cancellation PolicyFull refund minus transaction fee if canceled 10+ days prior to arrival. Reduced refund (one-night fee) if canceled 4-9 days prior. No refund for cancellations made 0-3 days before arrival. Refunds are not issued due to insects or weather.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Hampton Beach State Park provides opportunities for ocean-based recreation such as swimming and saltwater fishing. The park's proximity to the Atlantic Ocean offers campers breathtaking views, while the sandy beach is ideal for sunbathing. However, there are no hiking or biking trails directly within the campground, and activities are generally centered around the beach and nearby attractions.
Fishing
Saltwater fishing is permitted and supported. The park's location at the mouth of the Hampton River provides a good spot for anglers. Specific types of fish are not detailed in the source materials.Swimming
Swimming is available in the Atlantic Ocean. While the beach is clean and well-maintained, ocean temperatures can be cold, as noted by a reviewer who mentioned, 'swimming if you are brave enough to venture into the ocean and the cold water.'Beach activities
The beach allows for a variety of activities such as sunbathing, walking, and playing in the sand. One user remarked that 'the beach extends for miles and provides lots of walking.'Winter Activities
The park is open year-round, but no specific winter activities are mentioned. Campground operations are limited outside of the main season.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed only within designated fire rings.
Hazards
General hazardsCold ocean water may pose a risk to swimmers. Strong winds are noted during certain seasons. User reviews mention occasional glass debris on the beach.
Active alertsBeach advisories occur unexpectedly during summer months; campers are advised to check advisories posted by the Dept. of Environmental Services.
Weather forecast
73
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 76%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 6.7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Partly cloudy
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services are available greater than 10 miles away, including hospitals and medical clinics.
Good to know
Peak season datesMemorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend.
Trash and recyclingRecycling facilities are not available, and several users noted a lack of proper waste management. One reviewer mentioned, 'the campground had some litter issues, and buildings left something to be desired in terms of cleanliness.'
Proximity to water featuresCampground is directly adjacent to the Atlantic Ocean and Hampton River, with sandy beaches extending for miles.
Common complaintsUser reviews highlight staff rudeness and discriminatory behavior. Complaints about cleanliness, lack of shade, and limited facilities (e.g., restrooms and showers) are common.
HostThe campground manager, Karen D., received mixed reviews citing rudeness and unprofessional behavior.
Campground Map
8 State Park Rd., Hampton, New Hampshire, 03842, United States
Driving directionsFrom I-93: Take Route 101 east, follow until the road turns into Highland Avenue. Take a right to Route 1A (Ocean Boulevard). You will see Hampton Beach State Park on the left, just before the bridge over the river. From I-95: Take exit 2 to Route 101 east, follow until the road turns into Highland Avenue. Take a right to Route 1A (Ocean Boulevard). You will see Hampton Beach State Park on the left, just before the bridge over the river.
Access from major roads is straightforward, primarily via Route 101 and Route 1A; the roads leading to the campground are paved and accessible year-round. Seasonal closures are not applicable as the park is open year-round.Nearby places
Hampton (2 miles, approximately 5 minutes)
Seabrook (5 miles, approximately 10 minutes)
Portsmouth (15 miles, approximately 20 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Within one mile, there are convenience stores and retail supply outlets for camping goods
grocery stores may be located slightly further away.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Hampton Beach State Park (South) has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground receives mixed reviews. Many campers praise the location for its unique oceanfront access and well-maintained sites with full hookups. However, there are criticisms regarding the lack of shade, limited facilities, and occasional issues with staff behavior.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Campers frequently mention the stunning ocean views, the convenience of full hookups, and the easy access to a clean, sandy beach. One reviewer stated, 'Best location I have ever camped in my travel...
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Common Concerns
Negative feedback includes the lack of restroom and shower facilities, limited shade, and a 'parking lot' style layout. Several users also reported poor interactions with staff, particularly with a...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend booking well in advance due to high demand. Another tip is to ensure your RV is fully self-contained as there are no restrooms or showers. For the best experience, try to reserve...
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Seasonal Insights
Summer is noted as the peak season, with high demand and all sites typically sold out. Campers appreciate the warm weather and long daylight hours but note that the campground can become crowded....
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Camper Quotes
1. 'The hook-ups were well maintained and in working order.' 2. 'The beach extends for miles and provides lots of walking.' 3. 'Karen was extremely rude from the second I walked up to the office.'
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 15 and Site 16 are highlighted as the closest to the ocean and offering the best views. However, several reviews emphasize the importance of booking these spots in advance.
Accessibility Features
Accessibility-specific reviews are not available, but the campground's flat terrain and paved access may provide reasonable accommodations.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are only allowed between September 14 and October 31. Reviewers note that some campers bring dogs outside of this window, which can cause issues.
Last updated August 10, 2025