Hubbard Island Campsite

For those in New Hampshire seeking a true escape into nature, away from the bustling RV parks and crowded campgrounds, Hubbard Island Campsite offers a unique and authentic primitive camping experience. Located on Hubbard Island in the Connecticut River, this site provides a back-to-basics adventure for paddlers looking to immerse themselves in the tranquility of the Upper Valley's natural beauty. Maintained by the Upper Valley Land Trust (UVLT), Hubbard Island Campsite embodies the spirit of wilderness camping, providing a secluded haven accessible primarily by canoe or kayak. It's a testament to the dedication of volunteers and land trusts in preserving precious natural spaces for public enjoyment.

Hubbard Island Campsite is situated at 8JV2+QQ, Charlestown, NH 03603, USA, placing it within the scenic stretch of the Connecticut River. Its unique island location means that access is predominantly by water, making it an ideal destination for those who enjoy canoeing, kayaking, or other paddle sports. The campsite is found on the top of the island, near where it begins to narrow, with access primarily from the east side of the island, off the main river channel. Some initial reviews mention a bit of a hill to scramble up from the landing, suggesting a primitive approach to accessing the site. This water-only accessibility contributes significantly to its secluded and peaceful atmosphere, offering a true break from everyday life. While specific directions for land-based viewing are limited, the site is about three-quarters of a mile downstream from the Ferry Landing Boat Launch in Claremont, NH, providing a reference point for paddlers planning their trip. This strategic location along the Connecticut River Paddlers' Trail makes it a convenient stop for multi-day river adventures.

Hubbard Island Campsite is a primitive campsite, which means it offers essential, no-frills amenities designed to support a wilderness experience. The focus here is on natural beauty and self-reliance rather than extensive facilities.

• Cleared Tent Site: The campsite provides a designated, cleared area suitable for setting up tents, accommodating a few tents and hammocks. This ensures a comfortable and safe space for overnight stays.
• Box Privy: A basic privy (outhouse) is available for campers' convenience. While reviews indicate it might have been relocated over time, its presence ensures a designated facility for waste management, helping to keep the natural environment pristine.
• Fire Ring: Each site is equipped with a fire ring, allowing campers to safely build campfires for warmth, cooking, and ambiance. This is a crucial amenity for the traditional camping experience.
• Picnic Table: At least one review mentions the discussion of adding a picnic table, and more recent information from the Upper Valley Land Trust confirms the presence of a picnic table at the site. This provides a convenient surface for meal preparation and dining.
• Campsite Maintenance: The campsite is actively maintained by staff and volunteers from the Upper Valley Land Trust, ensuring the site remains clean, safe, and enjoyable for all visitors. This ongoing stewardship is vital for preserving the primitive nature of the site.

• Island Seclusion: As an island campsite, Hubbard Island offers a unique level of seclusion and tranquility. Being surrounded by water significantly reduces external disturbances, providing a deeply immersive nature experience.
• Connecticut River Paddlers' Trail Access: Hubbard Island Campsite is part of the extensive Connecticut River Paddlers' Trail, a network of primitive campsites and access points along the river. This makes it a perfect stop for multi-day paddling excursions, allowing adventurers to explore the river at their own pace.
• Forested Setting: The island is forested, providing natural shade and a classic New England woodland ambiance. This contributes to a feeling of being truly "away from it all."
• First-Come, First-Served Basis: Unlike many commercial campgrounds, Hubbard Island Campsite operates on a first-come, first-served basis. This adds to the adventurous spirit of visiting, encouraging spontaneous trips for those who are flexible.
• Conservation Effort: The island was gifted to the Upper Valley Land Trust in 2000, signifying its importance as a preserved natural space. Camping here supports the ongoing conservation efforts of the UVLT and allows visitors to directly experience the benefits of land preservation.
• Suitable for Tents and Hammocks: The cleared area is versatile, accommodating both traditional tents and hammocks, offering flexibility for different camping styles.

As a primitive, publicly accessible campsite managed by the Upper Valley Land Trust, Hubbard Island Campsite does not typically offer commercial promotions or special discounts in the way a private campground might. Instead, its "offer" is its very existence as a maintained, accessible wild space. The Upper Valley Land Trust suggests a donation of $10 per tent per night, which directly supports the maintenance and stewardship of this and other similar campsites along the Connecticut River. This contribution helps ensure that these unique outdoor experiences remain available for future generations of paddlers and campers. The true value lies in the opportunity to experience unspoiled nature, free from the higher costs often associated with amenity-rich campgrounds.

Given its primitive nature and management by the Upper Valley Land Trust, direct phone contact for the specific campsite is not typically provided for reservations, as it operates on a first-come, first-served basis. However, for general inquiries about the Connecticut River Paddlers' Trail or to learn more about the Upper Valley Land Trust's work, you can reach out to them:

Address: 8JV2+QQ, Charlestown, NH 03603, USA (This is a Plus Code, representing a specific geographical area, rather than a street address with a building number).

For inquiries related to maintenance or volunteering, you can contact the Upper Valley Land Trust's Stewardship Director, Jason Berard, at jason.berard@uvlt.org or (603) 643-6626 ext. 104.

It is always recommended to check the Upper Valley Land Trust's website or the Connecticut River Paddlers' Trail website for the most current information regarding campsite guidelines and conditions before planning your trip.

For New Hampshire residents, Hubbard Island Campsite offers an unparalleled opportunity to embrace the state's natural beauty in its purest form. Unlike more developed campgrounds, this primitive island site provides a true wilderness experience, perfect for those looking to disconnect and recharge. Its accessibility primarily by canoe or kayak encourages active engagement with the Connecticut River, a magnificent natural resource flowing through the heart of New Hampshire.

Locals often seek out authentic outdoor adventures, and Hubbard Island Campsite delivers just that. It's an ideal spot for a quick overnight paddle trip or a multi-day journey along the Connecticut River Paddlers' Trail. The simplicity of the amenities – a cleared tent site, a privy, and a fire ring – strips away distractions, allowing campers to focus on the sounds of nature, the crackle of a campfire, and the star-filled New Hampshire skies. The fact that it's maintained by the Upper Valley Land Trust, often with the help of volunteers, resonates with the community spirit prevalent in New Hampshire. By using and respecting this campsite, locals directly support the preservation of such invaluable natural spaces for future generations. For those who cherish quiet solitude, the joy of paddling, and a genuine connection with the New England landscape, Hubbard Island Campsite in Charlestown is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it’s an invitation to experience the wild heart of New Hampshire.

Hubbard Island Campsite

8JV2+QQ, Charlestown, NH 03603, USA