RV camping near Alton, New Hampshire offers access to Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire's largest lake covering 44,586 acres with 288 miles of shoreline. The region sits at approximately 504 feet above sea level, with most RV sites open seasonally from May through October due to harsh New England winters. Camping facilities range from basic water and electric hookups to full-service RV sites with 50-amp connections.
What to do
Kayaking at Scarborough Marsh: Only 1.3 miles from the Eastern Trail, a multi-use gravel path perfect for walking, biking, or running. "Within a mile of the Audubon center office, where you can either put in your own kayak/canoe or rent one," notes reviewer Heather C. The marsh offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.
Visit Old Orchard Beach: Located about 4 miles from Saco/Old Orchard Beach KOA, this popular beach area features traditional carnival attractions. "It is a throw-back from your childhood when carnival rides and funnel cakes made you so happy. The town smells like fried food and pizza and shopping consists of t-shirts and beach chairs," shares Rachel P.
Explore Portland: Several campgrounds provide convenient access to Portland, Maine. "We were within 20 minutes of Portland and 10 minutes to Old Orchard Beach," writes Rachel P. about her stay. The city offers excellent dining options, with one camper recommending: "We loved our lunch at the Run of the Mill Public House and Brewery which has a varied food menu with creative selections and good beer."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campers highlight well-maintained amenities as a top feature. At Silver Lake Park Campground, one visitor noted it was "an incredibly well maintained campground off Jamestown Road in Belmont NH. Brent and Dee Phillips have owned this campground for 3 seasons - and their love for this place shows!"
Heated pools: Swimming amenities receive frequent positive mentions. At Cole's Mine RV Resort and Campground, a visitor explains: "This place is well payed out and very well taken care of. The pool is heated and has an amazing water slide and themed."
Natural surroundings: Many campers appreciate quiet, wooded settings. One camper described their experience: "We lucked out with our cabin and the cul-de-sac it was in. It overlooked the woods and was a bit more secluded than many of the other sites. KK15, K3, K2 and K1 are great options as well, located along the wooded edges of the grounds."
What you should know
Site spacing varies significantly: Many RV parks have tightly packed sites. At Moody Beach RV Campground, campers note: "The 30 amp sites are very close together. The campground layout is quite unusual, with campers parked lengthwise along the road. This means that you share the space where you sit outside with the camper behind you, resulting in very little privacy."
Seasonal considerations: Most RV sites near Alton, New Hampshire operate on limited schedules. Wild Acres RV Resort runs from "Apr 30 - Oct 13," while Moody Beach RV Campground operates from "April 14 to October 15." Plan your visit accordingly.
Insect preparation: Mosquitoes can be problematic, especially near marshlands. As one visitor warned: "The only negative of this place was the mosquitoes. They were TERRIBLE. In the time it took after we parked the camper, to when I could dig the bug spray out of our truck I was covered in bites."
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with dedicated play areas: Family-friendly facilities often feature multiple recreation options. Cole's Mine RV Resort receives high marks with one visitor noting: "This place is perfect for small families or parents of younger kids. 2 amazing playgrounds, clean facilities and one amazing pool."
Consider trolley service: Some campgrounds offer transportation to nearby beaches. "There is a shuttle that takes you to the beach which is convenient. During the shoulder season dogs are allowed on the beach but not the summer," shares one camper about their experience at Saco/Old Orchard Beach KOA.
Look for organized activities: Many RV parks schedule family-friendly events. One visitor at Sandy Beach Campground shared: "We enjoyed our stay. The first site we got was way too small for our tent and they accommodated us and gave us a choice of two others to pick from... Playground is on the beach. They don't allow sparklers so that was a bummer on the 4th, but still got to see fireworks."
Tips from RVers
Check GPS directions carefully: Navigation systems sometimes direct campers incorrectly. One RVer warned: "If you're using Apple Maps, it will likely take you to a turn that is not the campground entrance, there's even a hand-written sign on someone's lawn that has directions to the entrance."
Consider site location for privacy: Look for sites along campground edges. According to a camper at Wild Duck Adult Campground, "The sites that face the marsh are the best sites - they have some grass and lovely views." This allows more space and natural screening from neighbors.
Ask about pet policies: Rules vary by campground. While most RV sites near Alton, New Hampshire allow pets, Silver Lake Park Campground reviewer noted: "This is a very clean, quiet, gated campground, with easy beach access for the kids. Pets are asked to stay home."
