Best Campgrounds near Center Harbor, NH
Center Harbor, New Hampshire provides a blend of campgrounds and camping areas, mostly concentrated along Lake Winnipesaukee and nearby Squam Lake. Established campgrounds such as Harbor Hill Camping Area, Meredith Woods, and Long Island Bridge Campground accommodate various camping styles including tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin rentals. Many campgrounds in the Lakes Region feature waterfront or water-accessible locations, with boat-in camping options available at Squam Lakes Association. The area maintains a mix of family-friendly developed campgrounds and more secluded options for those seeking natural surroundings.
Camping season typically runs from mid-May through mid-October, with most campgrounds closing after Columbus Day weekend due to New Hampshire's colder fall temperatures. "The sites were okay with trees all around. Most of the sites were seasonal sites. Sites are easy to get in to with an RV and level," noted one camper about Harbor Hill. Reservations are strongly recommended during summer months, particularly for weekend stays, as the Lakes Region is a popular vacation destination. Most developed campgrounds provide electric and water hookups, while some offer full sewer connections. Amenities like showers, flush toilets, and camp stores vary by location, with some campgrounds maintaining swimming pools and recreation areas.
Campers consistently highlight water access as a major draw in the region. The opportunity to boat, swim, or fish directly from campgrounds contributes to high ratings for properties like Long Island Bridge Campground, where one visitor observed it "is right on the lake, very clean, pet friendly, employees are great, overall just a nice place to relax and enjoy yourself." Family-friendly amenities such as swimming pools and playgrounds are common at larger campgrounds. Sites with seasonal campers make up a significant portion of many campgrounds in the area, creating established communities within these camping areas. The proximity to local attractions, hiking trails, and waterfront activities makes the Center Harbor region a versatile destination for outdoor recreation beyond camping itself.
