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Best Campgrounds near Gilford, NH

1,326 Reviews

Gilford, New Hampshire serves as a gateway to diverse camping experiences in the Lakes Region, with several established campgrounds offering lakeside accommodations. Gunstock Campground provides 250 sites with options for tents, RVs, and cabins, while nearby Ellacoya State Park Campground sits directly on Lake Winnipesaukee. The region features a mix of state park facilities and privately operated campgrounds, most offering water and electric hookups. Campers can choose between wooded settings at Gunstock Mountain Resort or waterfront locations at Paugus Bay and Harbor Hill camping areas, all within a 15-mile radius of downtown Gilford.

Seasonal considerations heavily impact camping availability throughout the region, with most campgrounds operating from May through mid-October. Ellacoya State Park operates from late May to early October, while some private campgrounds like Paugus Bay remain open year-round. Reservations are strongly recommended during summer months when lakefront sites fill quickly, especially on weekends. Many campgrounds in the area provide full amenities including showers, flush toilets, and sanitary dump stations for RVs. Winter camping options are limited, though Gunstock Mountain Resort offers some winter accommodations. A camper noted that "Ellacoya State Park Campground has big-rig friendly sites with electric hookups, but no drinking water directly at the sites."

The proximity to Lake Winnipesaukee represents a major draw for campers visiting the Gilford area. Several campgrounds offer direct water access, boat launches, and swimming areas. Meredith Woods Four Season Camping and Clearwater Campground provide cabin options for those seeking more comfort while still enjoying the outdoor experience. Harbor Hill Camping Area features not only cabins but also glamping options and yurts. Reviews indicate high satisfaction with waterfront sites, though they typically command premium prices and require advance booking. Campers frequently mention the region's natural beauty and recreational opportunities as highlights. One visitor remarked that Long Island Bridge Campground offers "beautiful views, quiet reflections" along with boat-in access options. Most developed campgrounds in the area welcome pets, though some restrict them during peak season or in certain areas of the facilities.

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Best Camping Sites Near Gilford, New Hampshire (292)

    1. Gunstock Campground

    13 Reviews
    Gilford, NH
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 737-4355

    $35 - $80 / night

    "I was lucky to receive a tranquil, secluded spot next to a brook - perfect."

    "Pros: Beautiful area, not a bad size campground, quiet nights (but this could be because 3 out of the 4 sites right near us were empty), free hot showers that are not dirty, lots of trails on edge of"

    2. Granite State Campground

    7 Reviews
    Belmont, NH
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 393-6003

    "New bath houses, New hook-ups on many sites Close drive to Lake Winnisquam and Winnipesaukee, Close drive to Gunstock Mountain, not far from Laconia, wooded sites, The camp has some seasonal full timers"

    "This campground is one of my favorites in the lakes region. Affordable prices, large wooded sites and great staff."

    3. Meredith Woods Four Season Camping

    8 Reviews
    New Hampton, NH
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 279-5449

    $44 - $135 / night

    "They also have a nice game room for them kids or grown ups that struggle to leave technology behind."

    4. Paugus Bay Campground

    6 Reviews
    Laconia, NH
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 366-4757

    "We seriously lucked out with getting two sites next to eachother over looking the lake though.

    Pros: -Owners were very friendly and helpful. -Lots of lake activities to do."

    "Campground is primarily seasonal sites, however the nightly rentals sites are nicely located near the water."

    5. Harbor Hill Camping Area

    7 Reviews
    Meredith, NH
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 279-6910

    $3500 - $4500 / night

    "Free DVD and book lending library, so if you aren't enjoying the great outdoors or walking on their nature trails, you can just read or watch.  Easy access to the lake or hiking trails in the area. "

    "Sinks are located outside and there is a bIgger sink for washing dishes. We were on an electric/water site but they also have a few primitive sites. We loved it here and will definitely be back."

    6. Clearwater Campground

    5 Reviews
    New Hampton, NH
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 279-7761

    $33 - $56 / night

    "The lake beach was fantastic, very nicely maintained.

    Kayak rental was super cheap and easy to do!

    The campground is relatively near Meredith town center, and not far from Weirs beach."

    7. White Lake State Park Campground

    24 Reviews
    West Ossipee, NH
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 323-7350

    $35 - $105 / night

    "Last weekend, our family stayed at White Lake State Park for four days."

    "I’ve stayed here a few times and love the location and access to White Lake."

    8. Long Island Bridge Campground

    3 Reviews
    Melvin Village, NH
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 253-6053

    $37 - $55 / night

    "Love this campground. great views of the lake. Nice neighbors. Lots of space for my kids to run around. And the family who runs it is very friendly."

    "Campground is right on the lake, very clean, pet friendly, employees are great, overall just a nice place to relax and enjoy yourself! People are awesome here!"

    9. Ellacoya State Park Campground

    3 Reviews
    Gilford, NH
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 293-7821

    $60 / night

    "PROs: Small and typically quiet (always depends on the neighbors you get) Right on the lake with great views of the mountains Easy access to the adjoining state park beach Always a nice breeze Full hookups"

    10. Ames Brook Campground

    5 Reviews
    Ashland, NH
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 968-7998

    $42 - $49 / night

    "Not all sites are overly spacious, some are in close proximity and there are many seasonal campers but the grounds are very well maintained and the bathrooms and showers are exceptionally clean (and free"

    "Easy to get to off Rt. 93, in Ashland, quick ride to many area attractions like hiking, lakes, etc.

    Site 27 is very large, near a cute babbling brook."

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Recent Camping Photos near Gilford, NH

901 Photos of 292 Gilford Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Gilford, NH

1326 Reviews of 292 Gilford Campgrounds

  • Mindie C.
    Sep. 16, 2025

    York Beach Camper Park

    Hideaway

    Don’t let the entrance turn you off. Once you get back into the campgrounds, it’s so cute. You are nestled in the woods. You feel like you are in the Forest but so close to the ocean. It’s calm and peaceful. The owners are so friendly and kind.

  • Utshob A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 2, 2025

    Bear Brook State Park Campground

    Convenient and fun

    The park was easy to get to, only about half an hour from Manchester. It has kayak rentals and a very well stocked camp store, that was close to the camp sites. Our campsite was only about a hundred feet away from the camp store but still felt private.

    Our campsite also had a fire pit and a picnic table which were great.

    The size of the sites varies quite a bit though as well as their isolation, some were out in the open.

    For cell service: ATT seems to have pretty decent coverage but not Verizon.

  • Erin D.
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Lost River Valley Campground

    Dirty and Disappointing

    Here’s the revised version of your review with the laundry issue added in seamlessly:⸻ I came to this campground after seeing it advertised in a New Hampshire magazine, noting that it had once been recommended by Yankee Magazine. Unfortunately, it seems that recommendation must have been from many years ago, because what we experienced was nothing like what was promised. From the moment we arrived, it was clear the property was extremely rundown. The entrance and camp store were full of broken wood, broken signs, and musty smells. The bathrooms were absolutely atrocious—filthy, smelly, and clearly not maintained. They may not have been updated in years, but they could at least be kept clean, and they were not. The playgrounds—despite this being advertised as a family-friendly campground—were unsafe and neglected. Structures were practically falling down, weeds were everywhere, and one so-called playground was nothing more than a tarp on the ground with a tiny jungle gym. The game room was equally disappointing: dirty, moldy, and unusable. We had also looked forward to using the laundry facilities, but they were completely out of order and appeared to have been that way for quite some time. This was extremely disappointing and added to the sense that the entire campground is neglected. The swimming area was also a major letdown. The water was murky and uninviting—I wouldn’t even consider kayaking or putting my feet in it. Calling it a“beach” is misleading; it was unkempt and unpleasant. Overall, this campground was an extreme disappointment. It felt neglected, unsafe, and unhygienic in every way. I will not be returning, and I would strongly caution others to look elsewhere for a true family-friendly New Hampshire camping experience.⸻ Would you like me to shorten this into a punchier version(since some review sites have word limits), or keep it as a full detailed account for maximum impact?

  • Kaileigh K.
    Aug. 25, 2025

    Sandy Pines Campground

    Amazing location and campground amenities

    We had an amazing long weekend at Sandy Pines and will definitely plan to return. I loved that there was a tent only area that felt a little more secluded and quiet with some nice privacy between sites. The playground and pool were a hit with the kids. The bathrooms were always clean and single user, some had showers as well. The proximity to goose rocks beach was a major plus!

  • S
    Aug. 23, 2025

    Cold Springs Camp Resort

    All Around Exceptional

    This place is just great! They have clean, flat sites, easy to navigate and get our fifth wheel in. The facilities are spotless. There are numerous pools and hot tubs, activities and the people that work there are just the nicest! Our kids were never scolded for being loud and neither were the adults. We have booked our return trip already and can't wait to go back!

  • Dale S.
    Aug. 23, 2025

    Nauman Tentsite

    Perfect Camping Adventure in White Mountains

    This campsite sounds like a perfect spot for nature lovers who enjoy rugged terrain and peaceful surroundings. The mix of wooden platforms, nearby water sources, and bear protection measures shows how well-prepared it is for group camping. Exploring trails like the Appalachian or enjoying the views from Mount Washington would make the trip even more memorable— almost like the adventure and excitement you find in an android game.

  • J
    Aug. 20, 2025

    Plymouth Sands Camping Area

    Nice campground with amenities and friendly owners

    The campground is in a convenient location near lots of hiking trails and attractions. The sites are decently spacious and have various configurations for utilities. There is a nice beach on the river with a rope swing and ability to swim. We were there while the water was fairly low, so it was great for kids. Firewood is available on site. There is a bathroom with a few stalls and sinks that is well kept and clean. The showers are quarter operated with a coin heat lamp as well for the colder seasons. The office has a lending library of games available. The couple that owns the campground are very friendly and have owned it for 3 seasons now and they have done a great job making sure that amenities are kept up and upgrades are being made.

  • R
    Aug. 15, 2025

    Sun Outdoors Wells Beach

    Zero wifi or cell signal

    Stayed back in 2023 with travel trailer and experienced almost zero wifi signal as well as verizon cell signal. Returned this past week and found no improvement whatsoever. This on back half of property. Manager stated they are awar and working on it. (For 2 years?). Could not plan anything, check weather unless you walked or drive up front. Light globes at various sites next to campers lit all night and were annoying so covered with bag. Some sites are just bad..huge pine tree at 428 caused camper to park his angled. Fire wood being sold is all pine & burns up immediately.

Guide to Gilford

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

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the numerous trails in the area. Many campers enjoy the trails at Pawtuckaway State Park Campground, where one reviewer said, "So many lovely waterfront sites, clean facilities, camp store and beach are great."
  • Water Activities: Kayaking and swimming are popular at White Lake State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "The lake water is crystal clear (and warmer than expected)."
  • Wildlife Watching: The area is rich in wildlife. A camper at Dry River — Crawford Notch State Park noted, "Great Basecamp for lots of hikes in the area."

What campers like:

What you should know:

  • Site Proximity: Some campgrounds have sites that are close together. A camper at Crawford Notch Campground noted, "The sites are all nice, but they are packed together."
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. A visitor at Hancock Campground mentioned, "There was no running water at any of the pumps and the pit toilets were quite full."
  • Noise Levels: Some areas can be noisy due to nearby roads. A camper at Lafayette Place Campground said, "There is a bit of noise from Rt. 93."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose the Right Campground: Look for family-friendly campgrounds like Lost River Valley Campground, where one family shared, "The bathrooms are always clean, the staff in the office and store has been friendly."
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities. A camper at Bear Brook State Park Campground mentioned, "The campground has a beach, a playground, a ball field, and a store."
  • Pack for Comfort: Bring items that make camping easier for kids. A visitor at Pawtuckaway State Park Campground noted, "Fire pits and picnic tables at every site."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Dry River — Crawford Notch State Park mentioned, "Some of the sites have a view of the road, which isn’t too pleasant."
  • Look for Hookups: Not all campgrounds have electric hookups. A camper at Lost River Valley Campground said, "The hookups look new."
  • Be Prepared for Weather: Check the forecast before you go. A visitor at Moose Brook State Park Campground noted, "This is a no electric hookup and no dump station park, but it's still worth your time."

Camping near Gilford, New Hampshire, offers a variety of experiences for everyone. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot or a place with lots of activities, there's something for you in this beautiful area.

Frequently Asked Questions

What campgrounds are available in Gilford, NH?

Gilford, NH offers several excellent camping options to suit different preferences. Paugus Bay Campground provides lakeside accommodations with easy water access for boating enthusiasts. Granite State Campground in nearby Belmont offers a more traditional wooded camping experience while still being just minutes from Gilford's attractions. Additionally, the wider Gilford area includes options like Meredith Woods Four Season Camping and Harbor Hill Camping Area, providing various amenities and settings. For campers seeking recreation-focused stays, Gunstock Mountain Resort's campground combines outdoor adventures with comfortable camping facilities year-round, making it especially popular during ski season and summer months.

How far are Gilford, NH campgrounds from Lake Winnipesaukee?

Several campgrounds in Gilford are conveniently located very close to Lake Winnipesaukee. Ellacoya State Park Campground offers sites directly on Lake Winnipesaukee's shoreline with beach access. Gunstock Campground is just about 3 miles from the lake, providing easy access while offering a more forested setting. Other nearby options include Paugus Bay Campground and Harbor Hill Camping Area, both within 5-10 miles of Gilford's lake shores. The proximity to Lake Winnipesaukee is one of the main attractions for campers in this region, providing opportunities for swimming, boating, and fishing without having to travel far from your campsite.

What amenities do Gilford, NH campgrounds typically offer?

Gilford area campgrounds typically offer a range of amenities to enhance your camping experience. Harbor Hill Camping Area provides water hookups, clean restrooms, and big-rig-friendly sites for RV campers. Long Island Bridge Campground features boat access, water hookups, and facilities that accommodate larger vehicles. Most Gilford campgrounds offer fire rings, picnic tables, and access to potable water. Higher-end facilities like Meredith Woods provide full hookups, shower facilities, and recreational areas. Many campgrounds in the region also feature camp stores for basic supplies, dump stations for RVs, and some offer amenities like Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, and playground areas for children. Waterfront campgrounds typically provide beach access, boat rentals, or docks.

What is the best time of year to camp in Gilford, NH?

The prime camping season in Gilford runs from late May through mid-October, with July and August being the busiest months due to warm temperatures perfect for enjoying Lake Winnipesaukee. Meredith Woods Four Season Camping operates year-round, making it ideal for experiencing New Hampshire's distinct seasons. Clearwater Campground is particularly beautiful during late September and early October when fall foliage creates stunning landscapes. Spring camping (May-June) offers fewer crowds and pleasant temperatures, though evenings can be cool. Fall camping provides spectacular autumn colors but requires warmer sleeping gear as nighttime temperatures drop significantly. Winter camping is limited primarily to specialized facilities, with Gunstock's campground being popular during ski season for those properly equipped for cold weather.

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