Camping options near Alton, New Hampshire provide diverse recreational experiences on the edge of New Hampshire's Lakes Region, with sites situated at elevations ranging from 500 to 900 feet. The camping season typically extends from early May through mid-October, with average summer temperatures between 70-85°F during the day and 50-60°F at night. Several campgrounds offer direct water access to smaller ponds and rivers that connect to Lake Winnipesaukee's 72 square miles of water.
What to do
Mountain biking at Bear Brook State Park: Located about 40 minutes west of Alton, the park offers extensive trail networks for various skill levels. "The biking trails were a blast. We'll definitely be back again," notes one visitor who specifically camped there to check out the mountain bike trails.
Kayaking at Pawtuckaway State Park: About 30 minutes southwest of Alton, the park offers excellent flat-water paddling with rental options. "This a a fantastic little camp for if you want to go canoeing or kayaking or boating of any kind! It's set up of three islands and a large majority of the campsites are right on the water," explains a camper at Pawtuckaway State Park Campground.
River tubing at Sun River Campground: Located in Center Barnstead, this campground offers river access with beach areas for cooling off. According to a camper review, "This family-oriented campground fosters a sense of community and camaraderie among its guests. The facilities, which include bathhouses, a laundry room, and a beach situated along a tranquil river, contribute to a harmonious and enjoyable experience for all."
What campers like
Spacious sites at Gunstock Campground: Many campers appreciate the room to spread out at this popular destination in Gilford. "Pretty spacious sites, they have an aerial obstacle course and a mountain coaster, places to swim, music festivals, hiking, etc," notes one reviewer at Gunstock Campground.
Waterfront access at Lazy River: Campers particularly enjoy direct river access for fishing and swimming. "Having the river right there for the kids to fish and dogs to swim was great. We were all alone at the end of the field, and that was ok with us!" shares a visitor at Lazy River Family Campground.
Privacy at Epsom Valley: Several campers mention the secluded wooded sites as a major draw. "My FAVORITE part was what was called the 'wilderness area'. AMAZING little tent sites! They were secluded but still had full hookups," explains a reviewer who appreciated the balance of amenities and natural setting at Epsom Valley Campground.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: During peak season (late June through August), most campgrounds require advance booking, especially for weekend stays and waterfront sites. At Pawtuckaway, "The sites on the water book up quickly but they're perfect for fishing and boating. Also, the view!" mentions one camper.
Varying levels of amenities: Campgrounds near Alton offer significantly different facilities and services. "This campground is one of my favorites in the lakes region. Affordable prices, large wooded sites and great staff," notes a camper at Granite State Campground.
Weather considerations: The region experiences afternoon thunderstorms during summer months. "We stayed here twice, once in September 2013 and then again in September 2018 and it is one of my favorites...in 2013 site 25 was a little challenging since it was on a downgrade and we were hit with a an unexpected 36 hour downpour."
Tips for camping with families
Look for specialized activities: Several campgrounds offer kid-focused programming. "This extremely family-friendly campground comes equipped with trails, play structures, camp store, beach, and even a small baseball diamond," describes a visitor to Bear Brook State Park Campground.
Consider campground layout: Some sites offer better proximity to amenities. At Salmon Falls / Lebanon KOA, a camper notes: "This Campground is family friendly and has a lot to offer. Our camping group consisted of children from the ages of 8-17 yrs old. No one was bored."
Water safety preparation: Many sites offer swimming but with varying supervision levels. "Love it. Great friendly staff. Stay right on the water. Clean and safe. Fun for kids," describes a visitor to Mi-Te-Jo Campground about water access for families.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: Choose sites based on size and access needs. "Large campsites, clean amenities, nice dog park, great store with everything you need and located near like Winni," notes an RVer at Gunstock Mountain Resort.
Full hookup availability: Many campgrounds offer water, electric, and sewer connections, but availability varies. At Turtle Kraal RV Park in Alton, "This campground has wifi, good cell signal (AT&T and Verizon), a great pool, is pet friendly and well maintained...Each site has a firepit and a picnic table - though many sites have additions and build for an extended stay!"
Seasonal campground differences: Several campgrounds transition to seasonal sites after summer. "I stayed here from July to September last year in my RV, great spot right by the river. It was never too loud there, great locals stay there mostly," explains a camper who appreciated the atmosphere at Epsom Valley.
