Meredith Woods Four Season Camping, now rebranded as Hunter's Run RV Park, offers year-round accommodations just north of Gilford. At elevations between 500-800 feet, the Lakes Region maintains milder temperatures than the nearby White Mountains, with summer averages around 80°F. Winter camping remains popular here with temperatures typically ranging from 15-30°F during January and February, making it one of the few areas where cold-weather glamping in Gilford, New Hampshire remains practical.
What to Do
Winter recreation: Indoor amenities at Meredith Woods Four Season Camping Area provide off-season comfort during the coldest months. "Snow ploughing happens regularly and reliably. Indoor pool and hot tub are amazing on a snowy frigid winter day. Utility sink for dishes available in heated bathhouse," notes Mara S. The heated facilities make this location particularly valuable for winter campers seeking glamping-style amenities.
River activities: Kayak rentals at Baker River Campground offer direct water access. "We ended tubing down the river one day. The staff was very nice. Close to a beautiful hiking spot and some stores, restaurants and gas stations," shares Isabella K. The campground maintains a dedicated beach area along the river, ideal for warm-weather water sports.
Lakefront exploration: Day trips around White Lake provide scenic vistas with Mount Chocorua visible from multiple vantage points. "The view of the sun setting over the white mountains (you can just make out Chocorua) over white lake is unreal," explains Amelia P. Lakeside camping creates opportunities for both sunrise and sunset photography with mountain backdrops.
What Campers Like
Spacious sites: Tent camping areas at White Lake State Park Campground accommodate multiple setups. "The sites are pretty spacious and they allow up to 4 tents and 2 cars per site. Extremely quiet and the bathrooms are super clean," reports Sarah W. Sites typically measure 30-40 feet in length, providing ample space for group camping arrangements.
Recreation facilities: Arcade games and entertainment options complement the natural surroundings. "Has a pool and a couple playgrounds for the kids AND a recreation room with arcade games, pool, ping-pong and other games. Free DVD and book lending library," notes David D. These amenities create alternative activities during inclement weather when outdoor exploration becomes challenging.
Pet-friendly accommodations: Dog amenities at Chocorua KOA exceed standard pet allowances. "Very pet friendly with dog park, agility equipment, dog pond and dog wash," explains Marla B. The campground maintains specific facilities for dogs, distinguishing it from other locations with basic pet permissions.
What You Should Know
Seasonal booking limitations: Some campgrounds restrict new reservations based on capacity considerations. "No new visitors since covid only repeat customers or if you know somebody at the campground," advises Austin M. Check current policies before planning visits, especially during peak summer months.
Bathroom facilities vary significantly: Campground restrooms range from basic outhouses to modern facilities. "The bathrooms at the beach include flush toilets, but no showers. In the campground there are coin-operated (2 minutes/$0.25), hot and clean showers," notes Jean C. Budget extra quarters for shower use at multiple locations.
Noise considerations: Quiet hours enforcement differs between campgrounds. "Sites were fairly standard- dirt floor with gravel packed in around the circle fire rings. Sites are close together. Quiet hours are supposed to start at 10:00pm, but our rowdy male neighbors were up, playing music, talking loudly, and singing, until midnight," reports Sable W. at Pawtuckaway State Park Campground. Consider midweek stays for quieter experiences.
Tips for Camping with Families
Beach access: Dedicated swimming areas provide controlled environments for children. "There's a great beach with lots of room and a big Sandy swimming area. You can rent canoes, hike around the lake, and the kids could safely ride their bikes around the campground," shares Carolyn M. Most campground beaches maintain shallow entry points suitable for younger swimmers.
Playground considerations: Age-appropriate equipment varies between locations. "The playground area for small children. Not a structure for small children," notes Dennis O. Parents with toddlers should verify playground suitability before booking sites near play areas.
Wildlife awareness: Bear activity requires proper precautions at certain campgrounds. "The first day I got there at around 5:30 I was sitting in my hammock reading when a black bear cub strolled through my campsite. Local police came and said they have been having problems with the bears," warns Kitty at Waterville Campground. Food storage in secure containers remains essential throughout the region.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: RV pads vary significantly in grade across the region. "The only level part of the site is away from the deck and water. My wife wanted to get the camper up close to the deck so our area under the awning was close to that, which meant I had a lot more leveling to do. And when I say a lot, I mean my 5" drive on leveling blocks weren't enough," advises Michael K. Bring additional leveling equipment, particularly for waterfront sites.
Electrical connections: Verify actual hookup specifications before arrival. "Our site was labeled as a 50 amp connection, but it wasn't, it was 30 amp. So double check that," recommends Michael K. RVs requiring 50-amp service should confirm availability directly with campgrounds rather than relying solely on booking information.
Limited shade at certain RV sites: Some dedicated RV areas lack tree cover. "The area for RVs needs more trees! The area for RVs is basically in a parking lot. But there is no shade or privacy between RV sites," reports Kimberly H. Consider awning positioning and portable shade structures when booking exposed sites during summer months.
