Best Campgrounds near Holderness, NH

The Holderness area in New Hampshire's Lakes Region provides numerous camping options within proximity to Squam Lake and the White Mountains. Established campgrounds like Harbor Hill Camping Area and Meredith Woods Four Season Camping accommodate diverse camping preferences, from tent sites to cabin rentals. The region features a mix of privately-owned campgrounds with full amenities and more remote sites managed by the Squam Lakes Association. Most campgrounds in the area support RV camping with electric hookups, while others cater to those seeking a more primitive outdoor experience with boat-in or hike-in access options.

Seasonal operation defines most campgrounds in the Holderness region, with the majority open from May through mid-October. Many campsites require advance reservations, particularly during summer months when lakeside locations fill quickly. Winter camping opportunities are limited, though some year-round facilities exist. The terrain varies from level, developed sites to more rugged options in the nearby White Mountain National Forest. Campers should prepare for variable New England weather patterns, especially in spring and fall when temperatures can fluctuate significantly. According to one visitor at Squam Lakes Association, "Simple, but gorgeous. The association maintains about a dozen campsites in the Squam Lake area—some hike-in and others boat-in only."

Waterfront access represents a significant draw for campers in the Holderness area, with several campgrounds offering beach access or lake views. Campground amenities typically include clean bathrooms, free hot showers, and swimming pools, with many sites featuring fire rings and picnic tables. Families appreciate the recreational facilities at locations like Harbor Hill Camping Area, which one reviewer described as having "a recreation room with arcade games, pool, ping-pong and other games." Many campgrounds maintain nature trails, providing opportunities for wildlife viewing and hiking without leaving the property. While most sites cater to families seeking convenience, the region also supports more secluded camping for those desiring privacy and a closer connection to nature, particularly at the boat-in sites on Squam Lake.

Best Camping Sites Near Holderness, New Hampshire (273)

    1. Meredith Woods Four Season Camping

    9 Reviews
    New Hampton, NH
    8 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."

    2. Harbor Hill Camping Area

    7 Reviews
    Meredith, NH
    7 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."

    3. Branch Brook Campground

    8 Reviews
    Campton, NH
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 726-7001

    $37 - $55 / night

    "Dump station is located smartly away from most campsites, but on site. Cammy at the office was lovely and helpful."

    "The beat part is the location to the river. It wraps around the campground making it a great place to go tubing. They also have 3 great fields for rent"

    4. Baker River Campground

    9 Reviews
    Rumney, NH
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 786-9707

    $35 - $42 / night

    "This place was a great option for staying close to Rumney for climbing. They have a group campsite specifically for climbers, which was $10 a person when we stayed there."

    "Some sites are more private than others but overall quiet, and in a beautiful spot right next to the river. It's in a great location being near the main roads but far enough away that it seems remote."

    5. Lost River Valley Campground

    32 Reviews
    North Woodstock, NH
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 745-8321

    $62 - $209 / night

    "The last few years, they’ve added a light display near the entrance at night, which make that last trip to the bathroom before bedtime fun!"

    "Nice campground located in the valley of mountains. Wooded sites but close to your neighbors."

    6. Campton Campground

    8 Reviews
    Campton, NH
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 536-6100

    $30 / night

    "The sites are clean and well kept but are close in proximity of each other. None are private. This would be great for multiple families wanting to camp together."

    "Really great for access to Tripoli road, Waterville Valley. Bathrooms clean. Showers clean. Host was excellent and knowledgeable. Loved advising campers where to go, what trails to checkout."

    7. Ames Brook Campground

    5 Reviews
    Ashland, NH
    3 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."

    8. Clearwater Campground

    6 Reviews
    New Hampton, NH
    8 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."

    9. White Lake State Park Campground

    24 Reviews
    West Ossipee, NH
    20 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."

    10. Waterville Campground

    11 Reviews
    Waterville Valley, NH
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 536-6100

    $24 / night

    "Located super close to Waterville valley ski area, hiking, golf, etc."

    "A path leads straight down to the river, which we can hear running from the tents at night. The caretaker is one of the friendliest I’ve met, and he keeps the sites and bathrooms very clean."

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Recent Reviews near Holderness, NH

1243 Reviews of 273 Holderness Campgrounds


  • Panvira T.
    Oct. 14, 2025

    Fransted Family Campground

    Good location

    The place so nice and cleaned,quite also close to you must see and things to do. The price reasonable too. Highly recommended

  • 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!

  • Oksana S.
    Oct. 8, 2025

    Jellystone Park™ Glen Ellis

    Read before booking

    PLEASE READ BEFORE GOING We went to Jellystone Park at in Glen NH. We originally booked from Sunday to thursday. We left on Tuesday due to several issues with the cabin that the office staff refused to fix. Issues we had was 1. Cabin was filthy and had bugs inside. 2. Stove top wasnt working. 3. Fridge smelled so bad I had to wash it with warm water and dish soap. 4. Our cabin reeked like cigarettes to the point I couldn't bath my kids because when the bathroom got steamy the smell got sooo bad. I tried to adress the issues and was told they had a no smoke policy so its not their issue if it smelled because they did their part in putting a policy down. For it being filthy I was told they trust their cleaner so it qas me that made it filthy..(attached is one picture that I have this is just the bathroom on our first day their. Everything was covered in dirt, sand and soo dusty and bugs everywhere). I first spoke to James who yelled and was saying ridiculous excuses as to why its ok. Then the manager(dont remember name but she was older and blonde hair) screamed at me while I had my 2 year old with me. I was telling her calmly and very nice my concerns to which she was yelling to get out of the office. Then I was threatened to have the cops called if I complained again. I lost alot of money I cant afford to loose. But most important I was want to make people aware. I told them the website should state these things to be fair cause if I knew this i wouldn't have paid since they said its normal for stoves not to work and its out of their controll if someone smokes in the cabin. They said no one would stay if they posted those things. I left litterally shaking and crying because I couldn't believe it. They are nice if you dont complain. Discusting customer service horrendous management. Will be reporting everywhere already let my friends know so they dont go next year.

  • B The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 7, 2025

    Quechee State Park Campground

    Beautiful, road noise, not a lot there

    Big, flat, beautiful sites. Road noise isn't super loud, but it's constant. Might be the nicest bathrooms I've seen in decades of camping.

    The weird thing is that there just isn't much here. The Quechee Gorge, best accessed from the back of the lawn behind the bathhouse, is the deepest in Vermont.. which is kind of like saying the best bagel or most populous city in Vermont. Prepared to be whelmed.

    It's a ~30 minute hike, you can access some slow semi-rapids at the bottom.

    Camping at the SP does give access to another trail that's moderately challenging and has both some level spots and a nice overlook.

    Don't regret the trip at all but it seems more like an awesome stopover than a worthwhile destination. Some decent restaurants in the area and even more in nearby Lebanon/White River Junction.

  • 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.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 30, 2025

    Jefferson Campground

    Great Mountain Campground

    Nice campground in a beautiful location. This place is a bit off the beaten path of White Mountain tourist areas but is still within easy drive to all the major attractions. We picked this spot for that exact reason. Open field camping in the middle with wooded sites on the edges of the park. I originally chose a site that was a bit too small to properly unhook the trailer but staff helped me get a better location. Site 17 was too tight for 44 ft total length. Switched to site 5 pull through. Some sites face each other for camping with friends. Follow their map to pull in correctly. Staff is excellent and very helpful. Small store on site with necessities and fire wood. FYI Amenities: pool, playground, laundry (affordable) hot showers. Off season so the place was not busy, very quiet. This is on our short list for when we return next year.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 29, 2025

    Storrs Pond Recreation Area

    Okay

    Stayed here on a Sunday night in late September. It was very quiet and peaceful. Tent sites were hilly/uneven and extremely far from the toilets and bathhouse. Bathhouse is old and run down. The shower curtains were covered in mildew so we decided not to shower. We were just here overnight and did not make use of the other recreation facilities.


Guide to Holderness

Campgrounds near Holderness, New Hampshire occupy diverse terrain ranging from lake shores to mountain foothills at elevations between 500-1,000 feet. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing from December through February, while summer highs typically reach 75-85°F. Most campsites require advanced planning during July and August when weekend occupancy reaches 90% at popular locations.

What to do

Tubing on local rivers: Branch Brook Campground offers excellent river access for summer tubing adventures. According to a camper, "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." The river wraps around the campground creating perfect conditions for water activities.

Mountain hiking access: Campton Campground provides an ideal base for hiking the nearby White Mountains. A visitor noted, "Great 'base camp' for hiking Osceola & East Osceola. Easy access from I-93. Really great for access to Tripoli road, Waterville Valley." This campground puts you within 15-20 minutes of popular trailheads.

Swimming in White Lake: White Lake State Park Campground offers a natural swimming experience in crystal clear water. One camper shared, "The beach area is very nice and has lots of tables and grills. We were able to hear the loons calling on the lake at night too." The swimming area remains shallow for quite a distance, making it safer for families with children.

Kayaking and fishing: Clearwater Campground provides excellent lake access for water activities. A reviewer mentioned, "Easy access to the lake, beautiful water, and my husband could not put a hook in without catching something." Kayak rentals are available directly at the campground for a reasonable fee.

What campers like

Clean bathroom facilities: Meredith Woods Four Season Camping maintains exceptional cleanliness even in challenging conditions. As one winter visitor observed, "Squeaky clean - and that's not always easy especially in the winter when everyone drags snow, slush and mud into the bathroom. Thank you for sticking to such high standards."

Indoor amenities for weather flexibility: Clearwater Campground offers indoor options when weather doesn't cooperate. A camper appreciated this feature: "The indoor pool on the other side of the road at the sister campground Meredith Woods was splendid. I love the idea of being able to go swimming even if the weather is a bit crummy."

Privacy between sites: Waterville Campground offers more secluded camping experiences. According to a visitor, "Big wooded sites with some privacy. 1 mile hike into Waterville Town Square. It's bear country so plan accordingly." The natural setting creates separation between campsites.

River proximity: Lost River Valley Campground features sites directly adjacent to flowing water. One camper recommended, "You cannot go wrong. Right on kangamangus highway basically in the mountains. Recommend the sites by the river!" The sound of moving water adds to the camping experience.

What you should know

Bear activity in certain areas: Waterville Campground has documented bear encounters. One camper reported a concerning experience: "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. We scared the poop out of each other. Local police came and said they have been having problems with the bears."

Road noise at some campgrounds: Baker River Campground has some sites affected by traffic sounds. A visitor noted both positives and negatives: "The campground is perfect for those who prefer a traditional camping experience without additional frills... Only downsides are it's a bit off the beaten path (over an hour to Conway); there is some road noise."

Winter camping challenges: Several campgrounds remain open in winter but with varying service levels. At Branch Brook Campground, one winter camper warned: "I DO NOT recommend this campground in the winter. I feel that the owners/managers are very neglectful. They do a bad job plowing (my rig bottomed out twice on snow banks) and I fishtailed on the access road."

Water quality concerns: Some campgrounds have water issues. One visitor to Waterville Campground mentioned: "The water is very brown / rusty. We didn't feel comfortable drinking it." Bringing additional water supplies may be necessary at certain locations.

Tips for camping with families

Recreation facilities: Harbor Hill Camping Area offers numerous family-friendly amenities beyond standard playground equipment. A visitor highlighted these features: "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."

Bike-friendly campgrounds: White Lake State Park Campground provides safe cycling opportunities for children. One camper advised: "You may want to bring bicycles or plan to walk a lot to get to and from the beach." Another added: "The kids could safely ride their bikes around the campground."

Seasonal activities: Branch Brook Campground schedules special events for families throughout the camping season. A reviewer mentioned, "Excellent river access, a pool, small camp store tons of activities for the kids, and many different 'types' of camping options!" Programming varies by season but typically includes weekend-focused events.

Tips from RVers

Winter RV considerations: Meredith Woods Four Season Camping accommodates year-round RV camping with specific limitations. One winter camper explained: "We stayed for a winter weekend, they have a few transient sites that can accommodate RV's year round. There are a ton of full time seasonal RV's as many people use this campground as a base for snow machining."

Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require additional preparation for RVs. At Clearwater Campground, a visitor noted: "Lot was not level. Lot was roomy." Bringing leveling blocks is recommended for most campgrounds in the Holderness region.

Hookup availability: Harbor Hill Camping Area offers comprehensive connections for RVs. As one camper described: "Has all the hook-ups you need with free wifi and cable TV." Most RV sites include water, electric, and sewer connections, though availability varies seasonally.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Holderness, NH?

According to TheDyrt.com, Holderness, NH offers a wide range of camping options, with 273 campgrounds and RV parks near Holderness, NH and 8 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Holderness, NH?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Holderness, NH is Meredith Woods Four Season Camping with a 4.4-star rating from 9 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Holderness, NH?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 8 free dispersed camping spots near Holderness, NH.

What parks are near Holderness, NH?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 12 parks near Holderness, NH that allow camping, notably White Mountain National Forest and Union Village Dam.