Best Campgrounds near Center Strafford, NH

We stayed late in the season during a chilly damp weekend and had the best time. We were right on the pond, so the kids could fish whenever. Lots of hiking trails (the dogs loved it). Can't wait to come back next year and explore the lake along the hike.

Bit expensive

Bit expensive

I found this place on The Dyrt app, so I came to check it out, I made a reservation online just to make sure I guaranteed my spot when I arrived, which I didn’t had to worry about either way because there was lots of empty spaces, but you never know, even though I made my reservation my spot didn’t have my name on it or any information about when I was suppose to arrive and leave, there was nobody there, but made me wonder if there was someone already there, besides that, it’s a great place to camping, clean, quite, bathroom was close by, shower and everything, besides all that I was able to use my phone with no problems, I have AT&T btw, there is a Dunkin, General store and a gas station like 3 minutes driving, which is great in case you forgot to buy something or are too lazy to make coffee and breakfast, I stayed for 2 night, can’t complain, and will come back for sure, I highly recommend this place, although I recommend to get the side from 33 to 57 it’s on the other side and not too close from the highway.

We came into the park on a Wednesday in mid September and found that over half the spaces were open. We grabbed a spot about 60 feet from the lake.

The camping sites are large enough for a tent and a couple of vehicles. There are a few larger sites here and there. Sites are very close to neighboring camp sites so Privacy is poor

There are very nice bathroom facilities with hot showers, dish rinsing sinks and hot showers.

The view from the lake is amazing. We walked to the beach every morning with our chairs for coffee. VERY RELAXING!

There is a building near the entrance of the state park that says its a store but it looks pretty old and closed.

The young lady who delivered our park permit was exceptionally friendly and helpful. However, the people that clean the restrooms are about as polite as construction workers in Queens. They do have a garbage dumpster but it is located about a mile from the campground. Not very convenient for tent or van camping.

Overall the price charged for the sites seems higher than the value received.

A friendly place but very crowed campground and tight getting a 21’ trailer in. About 1/2 of the sites are seasonal. Lots of beach traffic in the area and while we are glad we stoped by we wouldn’t go back

I only stayed one night because I couldn’t find a spot anywhere close to 95 . The campground is huge and the spaces are very tight ,not to mention $148 for a full hook up pull thru site that my 42 ft 5w barley fit. I would not go back .

We had a great time here camping with our kids and grandkids. River is not much to look at but the pool was great and there were great events like foam parties, DJ at the pool, pancake breakfast and live music to name a few. Staff were friendly and helpful.

This is a great campsite. So many amenities that work. Great sense of community. Overly friendly people at the front desk that are accommodating. The spaces are very close to each other. The Wi-Fi does not work very well (WFH employees trying to see the world). Other than the Wi-Fi, everything exceeded our expectations.

Beautiful and very well maintained. The staff is awesome. There are SO many amazing activities for the whole family. Would absolutely recommend!

This is my favorite campground by a mile! The people here are so friendly and accommodating, the campground facilities are clean and well kept, the kids activities are top notch, and the free trolly to Old Orchard Beach and Pine Point Beach is so convenient and the drivers are AMAZING. The nightly entertainment is also outstanding, especially the hypnotist. There are three nice pools, several playgrounds, two stores, a mini golf course, several ponds for fishing, and a really great restaurant with a huge selection of foods and decent prices. There’s also an adult pool with its own bar and restaurant that’s also very good! They serve a yummy brunch too. I really can’t say enough about Bayley’s. We travel 9.5 hours to come here each year and when we arrive, it simply feels like home. Old Orchard Beach is beautiful and is just a 5 minute trolly ride away. Just come! And don’t forget to bring your boogie boards!!

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. It feels cramped, and you’re constantly close to your neighbors. If you’re looking for a peaceful, secluded camping experience, this setup might not be ideal.

The facilities are ok but dated and could be cleaner. The beach is a short 15-minute walk.

For children, there is a swimming pool, a basketball court and a small playground

All in all, this is a good campground if you are on the road and want to spend a night or two exploring the area.

This is one of the dirtiest camp grounds I’ve been to.  It smelled of septic gas and trash.  The bathrooms were disgusting, the pool and playground were a slimy mess.  Camp sites are small and buggy.  Open septic line everywhere.  Picnic tables were all rotten.  Not a pleasant stay at all.  This is a trailer park not a camp ground.

I am not one to give a Terrible review. However I booked two kayaks and upon arrival at 9am they said it was a first come first serve ordeal. I was not camping there but rented kayaks. They then charged me the rest of the fee then said well there are actually 2 groups ahead of you. Well wait I thought it was first come first serve but now after they take my money they said there were 2 groups ahead and it would be a 1 and half hour wait. At that point I had gone to another place up the rd and called and canceled within 20 minutes I told them to keep my deposit but to re- fund me the charge of the rentals. They wouldn't. I will never recommend or ever use them again. They definitely choose favorites and I am extremely disappointed with them.

Personal Connection 

Baker River Campground will always hold a special place in my heart. It’s where I was first introduced to camping as a child. My first visit was in 1969 when I was eight years old. Last year, I returned for the first time in over 50 years. While much has changed, the basic layout of the camp remains the same, and it’s still family-owned, which is wonderful. 

Current Stay 

I stayed on site#20 with my class B van. Here are some highlights and details of my experience: Site Location: Conveniently near the road going out and to the beach. Amenities: Electrical and water hookup, a well-placed fire pit, and a bathroom/shower house right across from my site. The facilities were very clean, thanks to regular cleaning. Campground Condition: Maintained excellently, largely due to Reno, the full-time staff member who oversees the place. He was outstanding. The only reason I gave it a 5 was because of him. Environment: Located on the Baker River with a cozy beach. Limited amenities(horseshoe pit and a small playground), but both were in excellent condition. The campground is perfect for those who prefer a traditional camping experience without additional frills. During the week, the campground was quiet, but it got crowded on the weekends with seasonal campers and tent setups closer to the river. I appreciate the layout and the ambiance of the campground. 

Negative Aspects 

Unfortunately, a recent change in ownership to a corporation has brought noticeable changes: Loss of Personal Touch: The campground has lost its personal feel. Reno is still a lifesaver, but he’s the only one maintaining the old charm. Neglect by Management: The focus has shifted to another campground, Riverbrook, which is evident from their social media presence and activities. Baker River is largely neglected, and even basic acknowledgments from the management are lacking. Lack of Engagement: The director of both campgrounds visited but did not engage with campers. When Reno was on vacation, there was no other staff available to assist. Seasonal Campers' Discontent: Long-term campers have noticed the decline and are considering not returning next year. Corporate Focus: The corporation seems more interested in raising prices and saving money rather than maintaining and improving Baker River Campground. 

Final Thoughts 

I write this review out of a deep passion for Baker River Campground. It’s painful to see the decline in care and attention. I believe each campground should be treated as a separate entity with full-time events and dedicated management. The current corporate approach appears to prioritize profit over the well-being of the campground and its community. It’s a shame to see such a beloved place being neglected. I hope the management will take these concerns seriously and work towards restoring the charm and personal touch that made Baker River Campground special.

Mike Weild

Weild on Wheels

Branch Brook Campground is a true haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Nestled in a serene forest setting, it offers a perfect blend of tranquility and adventure. The campsites are well-spaced, providing privacy while still feeling part of a community of fellow campers. The amenities are superb, with clean and modern facilities that make camping comfortable and convenient. Hot showers and well-maintained restrooms were a pleasant surprise, ensuring that every aspect of the stay was enjoyable. The campground's natural beauty is enhanced by the peaceful sounds of the Pemi River and the gentle rustling of leaves, creating a soothing ambiance that is perfect for relaxation. The staff at Branch Brook Campground are incredibly welcoming and helpful, adding a personal touch that makes you feel right at home. Whether you're hiking the scenic trails, tubing on the Pemi River, or simply lounging by your campfire under the starry sky, every moment spent here feels like a cherished memory in the making. Overall, Branch Brook Campground is a hidden gem that deserves recognition for its exceptional service, beautiful surroundings, and commitment to providing a memorable camping experience. It's a place where you can truly unwind, recharge, and reconnect with nature. Highly recommended for anyone seeking a peaceful and rejuvenating retreat!