Best Campgrounds near Center Strafford, NH

Center Strafford and the surrounding area in New Hampshire feature several established campgrounds catering to various camping preferences. Within a 15-mile radius, campers will find popular destinations like Strafford - Lake Winnipesaukee South KOA and Barrington Shores Campground, both offering tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin rentals. The region includes a mix of waterfront camping options on local lakes and rivers, particularly at Ayers Lake Farm Campground and Sun River Campground, where visitors can enjoy water recreation alongside camping facilities.

Camping facilities throughout the region typically operate from May through October, with most closing after Columbus Day. Many campgrounds require advance reservations, particularly for weekend stays during peak summer months. A camper noted, "The spots are clean and roomy, bathrooms are always clean and showers hot." Road access to most developed campgrounds is suitable for standard vehicles, though some tent sites may require short walks from parking areas. Cell service is generally reliable throughout the region, allowing for easy communication while camping. Weather conditions remain mild in summer with occasional thunderstorms, while spring camping may encounter muddy conditions during seasonal thaws.

Waterfront access represents a significant draw for many campgrounds in the Center Strafford area. Several visitors mentioned shoreline views and swimming opportunities as highlights of their stays. According to one visitor, "This family-oriented campground fosters a sense of community and camaraderie among its guests." Families with children particularly appreciate campgrounds with recreational amenities like water slides, playgrounds, and game rooms. Most developed campgrounds in the region provide clean shower facilities, laundry options, and on-site firewood sales. Proximity to small towns allows for convenient supply runs, with a review mentioning "Dunk's is a 7 minute drive if you are a must-have-dunkin's every day person." Wildlife sightings are common at more secluded campgrounds, adding to the natural experience while staying within comfortable distance of modern conveniences.

Best Camping Sites Near Center Strafford, New Hampshire (217)

    1. Pawtuckaway State Park Campground

    44 Reviews
    Raymond, NH
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 895-3031

    $29 - $140 / night

    "Driving around this past weekend I did notice that some of the sites had damp spots; site 71 was the worst with deep mud on the long approach."

    "My first time experiencing a park in the New Hampshire Park system. We went down with a group. Pawtuckaway State Park offers a variety of landscapes, with something to do and see for everyone."

    2. Bear Brook State Park Campground

    28 Reviews
    Candia, NH
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 485-9869

    $29 - $45 / night

    "Tucked away in what feels like the middle of nowhere New Hampshire is it's largest state park. Bear Brook is full of trails, ponds and a fairly large campground."

    "Site 91 is near the entrance, but large and set back from the camp road, so it offers some extra seclusion. It’s across the street from the playground."

    3. Old Stage Campground

    9 Reviews
    Madbury, NH
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 742-4050

    $43 - $47 / night

    "Walking distance to rest rooms and showers. Great owners. 1st trip in a hurricane."

    "Learning to get away from the bad campers."

    4. Salmon Falls / Lebanon KOA

    7 Reviews
    Rochester, NH
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (207) 339-9465

    "We were able to book last minute and got a great tenting site, next to a running river that was great to sleep to. Very buggy, but it's outside, what do you expect?"

    "Staff was very friendly and extremely cautious about their surroundings. Plenty of things to do to stay busy during the rainy days."

    5. Epsom Valley Campground

    8 Reviews
    Epsom, NH
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 736-9758

    $35 - $165 / night

    "I enjoyed the hiking trails in the back and a pretty good amount of things to do near by. Being able to walk to a store and restaurant is great."

    "We only wanted to stay for one and when we arrived, the older women drove me around in the golf cart to see which site would best suit us and I just thought it was the sweetest thing!"

    6. Barrington Shores Campground

    4 Reviews
    Barrington, NH
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 664-9333

    "Lots of things to do in surrounding towns and easy access to the river."

    7. Lazy River Family Campground

    7 Reviews
    Epsom, NH
    12 miles
    +1 (603) 798-5900

    $26 - $30 / night

    "Saturday rolled around and some noisier guests came in for the night, they were several sites away and sounded like they were having a great time, didn't bother us."

    "The family will definitely be making a few return trips, especially with the reasonable drive from the boston area to the grounds."

    8. Ayers Lake Farm Campground and Cottages

    2 Reviews
    Barrington, NH
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 332-5940

    "Ayers lake campground in New Hampshire is a well kept secret. Small and family owned and operated, this campground offers some of the greatest vistas of a small New Hampshire pond we have seen."

    "On lake site. Great management and owner."

    9. Sun River Campground

    4 Reviews
    Pittsfield, NH
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 269-3333

    $30 / night

    "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."

    "Pros=rustic tent sites available on a River, very quiet nights, secluded campsites (however the 5 sites near us were empty so that likely has a little to do with noise level & space), playground available"

    10. Strafford - Lake Winnipesaukee South KOA

    2 Reviews
    Center Strafford, NH
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 332-0405
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Recent Reviews near Center Strafford, NH

953 Reviews of 217 Center Strafford Campgrounds


  • Marc D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 16, 2025

    Gunstock Campground

    Great Spot

    Fairly extensive camp ground associated with Gunstock ski area on central New Hampshire. We arrived without a reservation a bit after the office closed, but Elena, the manager came out to let us in and allowed us to check in. She was great. Dogs must have proof of rabies vaccine. Very nice showers. Beautiful fall colors.

  • Lin C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 10, 2025

    Spacious Skies French Pond

    Best Camp in the area

    I am enjoying this camp still, even after 6 months. Management is wonderful and attentive. They take great care of the whole camp and us campers. Fun events are scheduled on the regular!

  • Anonymous A.
    Oct. 8, 2025

    Libbys Oceanside Camp

    Mesmerizing Experience Stunning Sunsets & Sunrises right from your campsite

     Libby's Oceanfront Campground York, Maine gives campers a mesmerizing coastline scene experience' you will experience stunning sunsets and sunrises over the horizon of the Atlantic Ocean' Sitting in your chair appreciating the tranquil and serene view. You are steps away from the beach from the time you arrive to the time you departed the staff is always available and always willing to help, answer any questions and give recommendations where to go eat and shop. Very clean restrooms, clean showers, clean laundry room. We enjoyed watching the surfers right from our campsite. Nubble Light house is minutes away from the campsites you can see the lighthouse from the campsite. 

    A great place to eat breakfast were the locals go is called Ricks Blue Jay Cafe minutes away on US1 fabulous food.  Go to Granite Whale Watching at Rye, Maine, visit Beach town village in York Maine great little shops and ice cream shops.

    We highly recommended this campground we will definitely return! :-)

  • Julie A.
    Sep. 30, 2025

    Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park™ Camp Resort, Lakes Region

    Downhill since new management

    Yogi’s Jellystone Park– Milton, New Hampshire: Seasonal Camper Review I have been camping at Yogi’s Jellystone Park in Milton for five years, including the last two as a seasonal camper. Unfortunately, my recent experiences under new management have been disappointing and frustrating. Pet Fence Policy and Safety Concerns
At the start of this season, the new general manager, Amanda, instructed me to remove my pet fence, citing liability issues. Despite my having signed a waiver absolving the park of responsibility for my dog’s actions, she insisted on its removal without providing a clear explanation. I complied reluctantly, only to observe many other campsites retaining similar pet fences throughout the season, including one seasonal camper who kept theirs up all season and transient sites with fences as well. This inconsistent enforcement of rules is unfair and undermines trust. After seeing others with pet fences, I reinstated mine to protect my dog, especially after two incidents where loose dogs entered my site and charged at my dog. Amanda then threatened me with non-renewal of my seasonal contract if I did not remove the fence again, forcing me to comply once more. I wrote to corporate regarding this issue since Amanda was of no help but never heard back from corporate. Loss of Seasonal Site and Corporate Decisions
Yogi’s removed nine seasonal sites this year, including mine, with little warning. This decision affects long-term campers, some with over 20 years of history at the park. It appears motivated by corporate interests, favoring transient sites or cabins, which generate more revenue. The loss of a seasonal site after investing time, effort, and money into making it beautiful is deeply disheartening and reflects poor management priorities. Entertainment and Atmosphere
Adult entertainment offerings have drastically declined. This year’s highlight was a 30-minute Saturday night hayride, with no live bands in the pavilion throughout the entire season. Under previous management, live music was a regular and enjoyable feature. The lack of engaging activities diminishes the overall campground experience. Myself and other campers offered suggestions to management regarding entertainment for adults but they didn't take any of our suggestions. Bear Interaction
Despite the park’s theme, sightings of Yogi Bear are rare. On one occasion, a golf cart carrying excited children stopped to see Yogi Bear, but the character ignored them and drove past without interaction, which was very disappointing. Management and Staff Attitude
Amanda, the general manager, presents as unapproachable and aloof. She did not introduce herself to seasonal campers at the beginning of the season, many of whom do not even know what she looks like and the camping season ends in just a couple of weeks. Most staff members also exhibit a snobbish attitude, often failing to acknowledge campers, which creates an unwelcoming environment. Cost and Recommendation
The campground is overpriced relative to the quality of experience and level of service provided. Given the inconsistent rule enforcement, loss of seasonal sites, diminished entertainment, and poor management attitude, I cannot recommend Yogi’s Jellystone Park in Milton NH Those interested in a Yogis campground should consider other locations.

  • S
    Sep. 26, 2025

    Salisbury Beach State Reservation

    Only a 4 because of out of stater price

    Campsites are close together, but the beach is amazing. Especially in the off season.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 18, 2025

    Meredith Woods Four Season Camping

    Now called HUNTERS RUN Rv Park

    Good spot, lots of seasonal campers, new corporate owners and it’s named Hunter’s Run RV Park. Combined with another campground across the street. Called for reservations and staff helpful once they answered. Store and office hours are erratic. FireWood supply “iffy” so brought some locally sourced food. Camped at Lakeside area.


Guide to Center Strafford

Camping near Center Strafford, New Hampshire, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Kayaking and Swimming: Many campers enjoy the lake views and easy access to water activities. At Pawtuckaway State Park Campground, one visitor said, "Lots of great spots on the water, easy to put a kayak in from." This makes it a perfect spot for water lovers.
  • Hiking: Explore the trails that lead to scenic views. A reviewer at Bear Brook State Park Campground mentioned, "There are many opportunities for hiking, with trails leading to many special points of interest."
  • Beach Fun: If you prefer sandy shores, check out Salisbury Beach State Reservation. One camper noted, "Great location. Perfect for a beach weekend or week."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Wakeda Campground said, "Restrooms were clean and centrally located."
  • Friendly Atmosphere: Many campgrounds have a welcoming vibe. A reviewer at Gunstock Campground shared, "The staff upon arrival was so nice. It was so quiet at night!"
  • Family-Friendly Activities: Campgrounds like Sandy Pines Campground offer amenities for kids. One parent mentioned, "Lots of family-friendly amenities."

What you should know:

  • Pet Policies: If you're bringing a furry friend, check the rules. At Pawtuckaway State Park Campground, pets are allowed on hiking trails but not in the campground during summer. A visitor noted, "Pets are NOT permitted in the campground or beach area during the summer season."
  • Site Spacing: Some campgrounds have sites that are close together. A camper at Bear Brook State Park Campground mentioned, "Most sites are close together," which might not suit everyone.
  • Seasonal Availability: Many campgrounds have specific seasons. For example, Wakeda Campground is open from May 15 to October 1, so plan accordingly.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Look for Activities: Choose campgrounds with playgrounds or pools. A parent at Sandy Pines Campground said, "The pool was nice, two excellent playgrounds."
  • Pack for Comfort: Bring bug spray and sunscreen. A visitor at Wakeda Campground advised, "Bring bug spray!!"
  • Plan Group Meals: Cooking together can be fun. A camper at Tuxbury Pond RV Campground mentioned, "We had to go hunting for a grill for cooking."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Tuxbury Pond RV Campground noted, "The correct sites are large pull-through sites and very comfortable."
  • Look for Amenities: Choose campgrounds with full hookups. A visitor at Beach Rose RV Park appreciated the "full hook-ups with laundry, showers, and a heated pool."
  • Be Prepared for Noise: Some campgrounds can be lively. A camper at Friendly Beaver Campground mentioned, "The other campers were very loud and ruckus."

Camping around Center Strafford, New Hampshire, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just remember to check the specific campground rules and amenities to make the most of your trip!

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular campground near Center Strafford, NH?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Center Strafford, NH is Pawtuckaway State Park Campground with a 4.2-star rating from 44 reviews.