Saddleback Campground

For New Hampshire residents yearning for a tranquil escape into nature, where peace and quiet are prioritized, Saddleback Campground in Northwood, NH, offers a truly unique and refreshing experience. Nestled amidst natural beauty and surrounding a picturesque spring-fed pond, this small, family-owned and operated campground distinguishes itself by providing a serene environment away from the "hustle and bustle of normal everyday life." It's a cherished spot for those who seek to unwind, connect with the natural world, and enjoy a relaxed pace of life.

Saddleback Campground is clearly geared towards creating a peaceful retreat. Reviews consistently highlight its "quiet, peaceful nature" and describe it as a "great place if you are looking for quiet, peaceful nature." This emphasis on tranquility makes it particularly appealing to retired individuals or anyone desiring a calm, low-key camping experience. While it may not boast a plethora of high-energy activities, its charm lies in its simplicity and the genuine desire of the staff to make every stay comfortable and accommodating.

The staff at Saddleback Campground are frequently praised for being "helpful and went out of their way to accommodate our needs." This personal touch, characteristic of a small, family-run operation, ensures that visitors feel valued and well-cared for, contributing significantly to the overall positive experience. Whether you're staying for a few days or settling in for a longer period, Saddleback Campground provides a clean, well-maintained, and genuinely welcoming environment. For New Hampshire locals, it's an ideal destination to "hide away from the rest of the world" and rediscover the calming embrace of nature.

Saddleback Campground is situated at 41 Campground Rd, Northwood, NH 03261, USA. This address places it in the southeastern part of New Hampshire, a region known for its charming towns, natural beauty, and convenient access to various attractions. The campground is located off NH-43, providing a quiet setting while remaining accessible.

For New Hampshire residents, accessing Saddleback Campground is relatively straightforward. Northwood is connected via major state routes, including NH-4 and NH-43, which link to larger highways like I-93 and NH-101. This ensures that campers from different parts of the state, whether from the Lakes Region, Merrimack Valley, or even the Seacoast, can reach the campground with ease. While one review noted that "roads are a little tight" for larger RVs (a 35 ft motorhome with a toad managed fine), this suggests that the approach might be more typical of a quiet, rural road leading to a secluded property, adding to its peaceful ambiance.

While the campground offers a feeling of being "away from the hustle and bustle," it's important to note its relative distance from major shopping hubs. As one reviewer stated, "You're about 30 minutes from just about anything so be prepared for a drive if you want to shop for supplies." There is a Hannaford grocery store nearby, but for extensive shopping or diverse dining, a short drive is necessary. However, this distance contributes to the campground's quiet nature. Its central-ish location in Southern New Hampshire means it's "within an hour to most of New Hampshire's major attractions," including the ocean, mountains, hiking trails, and state parks like Northwood Meadows State Park, Pawtuckaway State Park, and Bear Brook State Park. It's also about 30 minutes from Concord and Portsmouth, and within an hour of major lakes and ocean beaches, offering a good balance for those who want peace but also the option to explore.

Saddleback Campground focuses on providing essential and well-maintained services to ensure a comfortable and peaceful stay for its guests, particularly those with RVs looking for a longer-term solution.

• RV Sites with Water and Electric Hookups: The campground offers 20 to 26 sites (sources vary slightly, but around this number), many of which are equipped with both water and electric hookups (20, 30, and some 50 amp service available). This provides crucial amenities for RV campers. Sites can accommodate RVs up to 50 feet, including pull-through options and back-ins for various rig sizes.
• Tent Sites: For those who prefer a more traditional camping experience, tent sites are also available, offering a rustic connection to nature.
• Weekly Tank Pump-out Service: A standout service for RV campers is the convenient "come around once a week and pump out your tanks" service. This is particularly valuable given that "None of the available sites had sewer hookups," effectively providing a mobile sewer service to your site and extending the convenience of longer stays.
• Dump Station: In addition to the pump-out service, a dump station is available for registered guests (free for registered guests, with a fee for non-campers).
• Clean Bathrooms and Free Hot Showers: Reviews consistently highlight that "Bathrooms, showers and laundry are well maintained." The showers offer free hot water, a welcome amenity after a day of outdoor activities.
• Laundry Facilities: An on-site laundromat is available ($4.00 per load), providing convenience for campers on extended stays.
• Spring-Fed Pond for Swimming and Fishing: The campground features a beautiful spring-fed pond where campers can swim or fish. Importantly, "no license required" for fishing in the pond, making it an easy and accessible activity.
• Fire Rings / Fireplaces and Picnic Tables: Each campsite comes equipped with a fire ring or fireplace for campfires and a picnic table for outdoor dining, enhancing the traditional camping experience.
• Wi-Fi Access: Free Wi-Fi is available, allowing campers to stay connected if desired. Some sources indicate Direct TV access may also be available.
• On-site Store: A small store is available for basic supplies, ice ($3.00/bag), and firewood ($10.00, with proceeds often going to charity like Make-A-Wish Foundation).
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are allowed (leashed), making it suitable for campers who wish to bring their furry companions. Reviewers mention "pets welcome." However, some sources suggest "only one pet" and not to leave pets unsupervised, so confirming policies is advised.
• Rental Units (Trailers/Campers): The campground offers some rental units, specifically trailers, available for those who want to experience RV camping without owning their own rig (e.g., via Northeast RV Rentals LLC).
• Limited Recreational Activities: While not a major activity hub, the campground offers a playground for children, a community fireplace, and simple outdoor games like horseshoes, badminton, and volleyball. Frog-catching in the pond is also a noted activity for kids.

• Remarkable Peace and Quiet: This is the absolute core highlight of Saddleback Campground. Reviews consistently emphasize its "quiet, peaceful nature" and "very quiet" environment. For New Hampshire residents seeking a true escape from noise and crowds, this is a prime destination.
• Beautiful Pond with View Sites: Many sites offer a "great view of the pond with fountain," providing a picturesque and calming backdrop for camping. The spring-fed pond is also available for swimming and fishing (no license required), adding accessible on-site recreation.
• Exceptional Staff and Accommodating Owners: The owners, Nancy and Les, and the staff in general, receive high praise for being "very nice and helpful," going "out of their way to accommodate our needs," and always ensuring "everything is running smoothly." This personalized and caring service contributes significantly to a pleasant stay.
• Well-Maintained and Clean Facilities: Despite its rustic charm, the "Bathrooms, showers and laundry are well maintained," indicating a commitment to cleanliness and guest comfort. This is a crucial feature for any campground.
• Convenient Weekly Pump-out Service: For RVs without full sewer hookups at their site, the weekly pump-out service is a highly convenient and unique feature that makes longer stays more manageable and comfortable.
• Ideal for Longer, Relaxed Stays: Campers often enjoy "10 day stay" or even "three months," finding the campground perfect for extended periods of relaxation. This is particularly suitable for retired individuals or those seeking a more permanent seasonal base.
• Value for Price: Described as a "reasonably priced campground," it offers good value for the tranquil experience and amenities provided.
• Pet-Friendly with Clear Policies: While specific pet rules (e.g., one pet, not left unsupervised) apply, the campground welcomes pets, allowing New Hampshire families to bring their furry companions along.
• Rustic Charm with Essential Amenities: It strikes a balance, offering essential hookups (W/E), clean facilities, and a dump station, while maintaining a natural, woodsy feel without the overwhelming "resort" atmosphere of larger parks.

Saddleback Campground, as a small, family-owned and operated business, tends to offer value through its straightforward pricing and personalized service rather than complex promotional schemes. However, based on available information, there are key pricing structures and potential affiliations that offer "special offers" for New Hampshire locals:

• Daily, Weekly, and Monthly Rates: Saddleback Campground offers tiered pricing for different lengths of stay. For instance:
  • Tent Site: $35 daily / $210 weekly.
  • RV Site (Water & Electric): $55 daily / $330 weekly.
  These weekly rates represent a saving compared to booking daily, effectively giving one night free per week (e.g., 6 nights at $55 = $330, whereas 7 nights would be $385).
• Seasonal Rates: For New Hampshire residents seeking a consistent summer retreat, Saddleback Campground explicitly states that "Seasonal and monthly rates are available upon request. Please contact the office for pricing and details." These longer-term rates typically offer the most significant per-night savings and foster a sense of community among long-term residents.
• Passport America Discount: This is a significant direct "offer." Saddleback Campground is a Passport America affiliated campground, which typically means members receive a 50% discount on nightly rates. For example, Passport America rates listed are $27.50 for RV sites and $17.50 for tent sites (plus $5 for electric for tents). This is a substantial saving for Passport America members.
• "Make a Wish Foundation" Firewood Donation: While not a direct discount, purchasing firewood for $10.00 from the campground is a unique "offer" that benefits charity, as 100% of firewood sales are donated to the Make-A-Wish Foundation. This allows campers to contribute to a good cause while enjoying their campfire.
• Group Area: The availability of a "group area" suggests the potential for special rates or booking arrangements for larger parties, which can be a form of value for organizations or extended family gatherings.

It is highly recommended for New Hampshire residents to visit the official Saddleback Campground website or call them directly for the most current rates, seasonal availability, and to inquire about any specific discounts or booking requirements.

To connect with Saddleback Campground for reservations, inquiries, or any other questions, please use the following contact details:

• Address: 41 Campground Rd, Northwood, NH 03261, USA
• Phone: (603) 942-7285
• Mobile Phone: +1 603-942-7285
• Email: saddlebackcampground@gmail.com (Also listed as saddlebackcampground@yahoo.com on some directories)
• Website: www.saddlebackcampground.com (This is the primary resource for rates, amenities, and contact forms.)

The campground explicitly states: "Please call the office if you are looking to book a reservation." Given the nature of a family-owned and operated business, a direct phone call will likely provide the most comprehensive and personalized assistance for planning your stay.

For New Hampshire residents, Saddleback Campground in Northwood is an exceptionally suitable destination, particularly for those seeking a tranquil, comfortable, and genuinely welcoming outdoor experience. Its suitability for locals stems from its unique blend of peaceful seclusion, convenient amenities, and the personal touch of its family ownership.

Firstly, its primary appeal for New Hampshire locals is the promise of "peace, quiet, tranquility, rest and relaxation." In a state celebrated for its natural beauty, Saddleback offers a true escape from the noise and demands of everyday life, making it an ideal retreat for unwinding. The serene spring-fed pond, visible from many sites, adds to this calming atmosphere, providing opportunities for swimming and fishing without requiring a license – a simple, accessible joy.

Secondly, the consistently praised "helpful and accommodating" staff, including owners Nancy and Les, ensures a hassle-free and pleasant stay. This personalized attention, from assisting with RV backing to maintaining clean facilities (bathrooms, showers, laundry), demonstrates a commitment to guest comfort that resonates deeply with visitors. For New Hampshire residents looking for a campground where they feel valued and cared for, Saddleback stands out.

Furthermore, while it offers a sense of being "away from it all," its location provides reasonable access to broader New Hampshire attractions. A 30-minute drive can take you to cities like Concord or Portsmouth, or to various state parks and the coast, offering a balanced vacation that combines peaceful camping with opportunities for exploration. The weekly pump-out service is a significant convenience for RV owners planning longer stays, making Saddleback particularly appealing for those looking for a seasonal or extended retreat without the need for full sewer hookups at every site.

In essence, Saddleback Campground is a perfect fit for New Hampshire locals who prioritize a quiet, well-maintained, and friendly camping environment. It's a place to truly relax, enjoy nature, and experience the warm hospitality that embodies the spirit of New Hampshire camping.

Saddleback Campground

41 Campground Rd, Northwood, NH 03261, USA