The Center Harbor region sits at the northern shores of Lake Winnipesaukee at 553 feet above sea level, creating a hub for RV campers seeking lakeside accommodations. Several private campgrounds within 30 miles offer seasonal camping from May through October, with most closing after Columbus Day. Local terrain includes rolling hills and accessible waterfront locations, with campsites typically set among pine and oak forests.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Campgrounds near Danforth Bay provide direct water access for anglers. "We love the golf carts and sandy beaches as well as the proximity to North Conway and Lake Ossipee," notes a camper at Danforth Bay Camping & RV Resort. The bay connects to Lake Ossipee, creating multiple fishing spots.
Hiking trails: Several trails for different skill levels surround the Center Harbor area. "Mary's mountain is a nice hike accessible from the RV/Boat storage area," says a visitor about Danforth Bay. For more challenging terrain, campers can drive to Franconia Notch State Park for ridge trails with valley views.
Water recreation: Many campgrounds feature swimming areas and boat rentals. A visitor at Sandy Beach Campground mentions, "The sandy beach is nice but the swimming area is quite weedy." For clearer swimming, look for campgrounds with maintained pools.
What campers like
Beach access: Lakefront camping ranks high among RVers visiting Center Harbor. According to a review of Silver Lakes Park Campground, "This is a very clean, quiet, gated campground, with easy beach access for the kids (and launching space for pontoon or bass boats)."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathhouses and amenities matter to campers. One reviewer noted about Cole's Mine RV Resort, "Super fun pool and a small campground so not many people crowding the pool... lots of play areas and outdoor recreation."
Family activities: Campgrounds with planned events keep children entertained. "They seem to always have events & family friendly activities to keep kids entertained. I always appreciate the onsite kayak rentals for exploring the river that runs along the campground," shares a Danforth Bay visitor.
What you should know
Site sizes and access: Some campgrounds have challenging access roads. At Cannon Mountain RV Park, "The sites are narrow, a little bigger than a parking space, especially because of the trees in between the sites... Site seven looks to be the best because no trees on one side lets you have some room."
Seasonal closures: Most rv sites near Center Harbor, New Hampshire close after Columbus Day weekend. Campgrounds like Sandy Beach operate from "May 5 - Oct 10," while Newfound RV Park runs "May 1 - Oct 31." Plan accordingly if traveling in late fall.
Noise levels: Quiet hours are enforced differently across campgrounds. One camper at Pine Acres Resort reported, "Stopped for the night on our way to Maine. Site was across from the pavilion... Large crowd of people gathered yelling and karaoke started until 11:20."
Tips for camping with families
Pool options: Families with children should consider campgrounds with dedicated swimming facilities. "Two amazing playgrounds, clean facilities and one amazing pool," writes a visitor about Cole's Mine RV Resort, adding it's "perfect for small families or parents of younger kids."
Recreation programs: Look for campgrounds offering structured activities. Newfound RV Park includes "a fun plus to the campground was the nature walk and stream on the property. This was a great place to take our dog for a quick walk. There's even a little 'wishing' bridge that crosses the stream."
Beach alternatives: Lakefront beaches vary in quality throughout the season. A Silver Lakes Park visitor notes the campground offers "a playground, rentable kayaks and canoes, a basketball goal, frisbee golf, corn hole, horseshoes, yard darts etc."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose your campsite carefully to accommodate your rig size. A visitor at Riverbrook RV & Camping Resort shared, "My wife and I spent the month of July at Riverbrook and we couldn't have been happier. The owners are super friendly and accommodating; the park is clean, comfortable, and convenient to adventures in the White Mountains."
Internet connectivity: Remote work campers should check connectivity options. "I work remotely, so having internet access is mandatory, we were able to use our AT&T hotspot with decent service. That worked well enough for my needs, so I didn't test the onsite WiFi," reports a Newfound RV Park camper.
Winter considerations: Few RV sites near Center Harbor, New Hampshire operate year-round. Cannon Mountain RV Park is an exception that remains open through winter, making it popular with outdoor enthusiasts. One visitor notes it's "Perfect for ski bums. Access to xcs, downhill, and snow machine trails."