Tent campsites near Center Strafford, New Hampshire generally feature densely forested sites with basic amenities. The region sits at the eastern edge of the Lakes Region, with elevations ranging from 400 to 700 feet above sea level. Summer camping temperatures typically range from 55-85°F, with rainfall averaging 3-4 inches monthly during peak season.
What to do
Water activities on Squam Lake: Squam Lakes Association offers excellent kayaking opportunities alongside their hike-in and boat-in campsites. The lake provides calm waters for paddling with mountain views. One camper noted, "The area offers water sports of all kinds, amazing views, spectacular hiking and backpacking in the White Mountains and some cute little villages along the local highways."
Beach trips: Campsites within 25 miles of Center Strafford provide easy access to ocean beaches. Sun Outdoors Saco Old Orchard Beach offers a shuttle service to Old Orchard Beach during summer months. According to a visitor: "There was a trolley to the beach but lots to do at the campground too." Another camper mentioned that "Old Orchard Beach... is a throw-back from your childhood when carnival rides and funnel cakes made you so happy."
Hiking local trails: The region offers numerous day hiking options through mixed hardwood forests. The trails around Military Park New Boston Air Force Station provide accessible routes with minimal elevation gain. A visitor described it as having "Nice scenery with fresh air and freedom sunshine!"
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: Walk-in camping areas provide greater privacy than developed campgrounds. At Lost Boys Hideout, recent improvements have enhanced the camping experience. One camper reported, "Nice new tents provided at Sleepy Hollow site. Improvements to the firepit, area all mulched, even some games and water are provided!"
Family-friendly amenities: Many campgrounds within 30 miles offer dedicated facilities for children. Salmon Falls River RV Resort provides multiple pools, water features, and organized activities. A camper described it as "Kids Paradise" explaining: "If you have young kids this place is so fun! Multiple pools, a water slide, high ropes, a jump pad, mini golf and more!!!"
Natural surroundings: The camping areas feature native New England woodland settings with minimal development. At Cape Ann Camp Site, visitors appreciate the wildlife viewing opportunities. One camper noted, "Very nice folks, great sites with A LOT of space between them. Spectacular views and wild turkeys, deer, etc."
What you should know
Bathroom facilities vary widely: While some campgrounds offer full facilities, primitive sites typically have minimal amenities. At Huttopia Southern Maine, located 34 miles from Center Strafford, facilities are well-maintained but basic. As one visitor noted simply, "Grounds are manicured and aimed to be family friendly."
Reservation timing matters: Popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak summer weekends. Most sites open reservations 3-6 months in advance. For Squam Lakes Association, "The sites are pricey and fill up quickly when reservations open for the year on Feb 15, but the money supports the conservation of the area."
Many sites lack drinking water: Primitive camping areas typically don't provide potable water. Visitors should bring their own water or filtration systems. When camping at Squam Lakes Association, be aware that sites have "no picnic table or drinking water. Come prepared with your own water...or a filter."
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-specific activities: Campgrounds with dedicated children's programming reduce planning pressure on parents. Salmon Falls River Resort offers daily activities specifically designed for younger campers. A visitor reported: "Have great activities daily for the kids a nice store onsite. If I have one issue it would be that it went to a KOA which isn't bad but the transition year seemed a bit wanky."
Consider bath facilities: Some campgrounds offer limited bathroom access, creating challenges for families. Cape Ann Camp Site provides clean but dated facilities. One camper mentioned: "Campground is clean but very rustic. Facilities are on the old side. Great beach access and friendly staff."
Evaluate site privacy: Family groups may prefer larger, more separated sites. Sun Outdoors Saco Old Orchard Beach offers a range of site types. A camper noted, "The campground sits among tall pine trees which offer nice shade helps alleviate some of the feel of a crowded campground."
Tips from RVers
Check site sizes carefully: Many campgrounds near Center Strafford have limited space for larger rigs. Viewland Campground has particularly tight access. A visitor warned: "The road was very narrow and we were very close to some RV's that had been on the property for decades... It felt like an established community of people that reside on a permanent or semi-permanent basis."
Consider amenity needs: Most primitive camping areas lack hookups entirely. At Cape Ann Camp Site, RV spots offer fewer natural buffers than tent sites. A camper observed: "The RV sites are not as secluded as the tent sites. Clean Bathrooms and pay showers (5 cents)."
Reserve early for summer weekends: The limited number of developed RV sites within 30 miles fill quickly during peak season. Sun Outdoors Saco Old Orchard Beach offers full-hookup sites but requires advance planning.
