Best Campgrounds near Laconia, NH

Laconia, New Hampshire serves as a hub for numerous developed campgrounds offering various accommodation types within the Lakes Region. Established facilities like Gunstock Campground in Gilford and Meredith Woods Four Season Camping Area provide tent, RV, and cabin options with amenities such as electric hookups, water, and sanitary facilities. Harbor Hill Camping Area offers yurt and glamping options in addition to traditional sites, while Paugus Bay Campground provides lakefront access with boat-in camping possibilities. Most campgrounds in this region maintain clean facilities with modern bathhouses, though site privacy varies considerably.

Camping availability in the Lakes Region typically runs from mid-May through mid-October, with several facilities closing after Columbus Day. Sites near water bodies tend to fill quickly, especially during summer weekends. "Location, location, location. Nice private beach, clean and well maintained. Friendly. Within walking distance to Weirs Beach," noted one camper about Paugus Bay Campground. Access roads within some campgrounds may present challenges for larger RVs or trailers, particularly at facilities with narrow internal roads. Several campgrounds maintain gated access requiring key cards for entry, enhancing security but requiring advance planning. Proximity to Lake Winnipesaukee influences both temperatures and camping patterns, with waterfront sites commanding premium rates.

The camping experience across Laconia-area facilities varies significantly depending on site selection. Wooded sites provide greater privacy and shade but are limited at some facilities. Several visitors highlighted the importance of site selection, with one noting: "We seriously lucked out with getting two sites next to each other overlooking the lake. If you do not get a site near the docks to enjoy the view, I could see this campground not being worth it." Many campgrounds feature a mix of seasonal and short-term sites, with seasonal occupants sometimes comprising the majority at certain facilities. Campers report high satisfaction with campgrounds offering recreational amenities like pools, playgrounds, and proximity to hiking trails. Sites along creeks or with water views consistently receive the highest ratings, though they typically require advance reservations during peak season.

Best Camping Sites Near Laconia, New Hampshire (279)

    1. Gunstock Campground

    13 Reviews
    Gilford, NH
    6 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. Meredith Woods Four Season Camping

    9 Reviews
    New Hampton, NH
    6 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."

    3. 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."

    4. Paugus Bay Campground

    6 Reviews
    Laconia, NH
    3 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
    8 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

    6 Reviews
    New Hampton, NH
    6 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. Ames Brook Campground

    5 Reviews
    Ashland, NH
    11 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. White Lake State Park Campground

    24 Reviews
    West Ossipee, NH
    23 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."

    9. Long Island Bridge Campground

    3 Reviews
    Melvin Village, NH
    10 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!"

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Recent Reviews near Laconia, NH

1232 Reviews of 279 Laconia Campgrounds


  • 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.

  • 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.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 21, 2025

    Town Hall Road Dispersed

    Few Solar/Starlink Options

    If all we needed was a campsite with no solar or starlink, this would be 5 star review. Lots of options, great hiking in the area. But if you need solar or starlink, there’s only 1 or 2 viable spots. We were lucky to snag on one a Monday afternoon (last site before turnaround on FR38) and stayed all week.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 18, 2025

    Meredith Woods Four Season Camping

    Now called HUNTERS RUN Rv Park

    Good spot, lots of seasonal campers, new corporate owners and it’s named Hunter’s Run RV Park. Combined with another campground across the street. Called for reservations and staff helpful once they answered. Store and office hours are erratic. FireWood supply “iffy” so brought some locally sourced food. Camped at Lakeside area.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 18, 2025

    Clearwater Campground

    Now Hunter’s Run RV Park

    This is now called Hunter’s Run. Many seasonal campsites more than half the campground. Good site spacing. Store only open limited hours and staff on site only limited hours. Probably due to new corporate owners. Very quiet off season and during the week. No wood available during our visit, 2 bundles locked in cage area but nobody around to purchase from. Bathhouses and showers very clean at lakeside section of campground. Nice clean beach area at the lake. Looks like kayak and canoe rentals. This is on south side of NH route 104 which is a busy road. Some road noise noticed from our location near the lake. Gravel/dirt sites with fire pits ( rocks ) and picnic table. Called office to arrange for site and they called back. Staff very helpful to find a good site and making reservations.

  • 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?

  • 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!


Guide to Laconia

Camping near Laconia, 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:

  • Kayaking and Canoeing: Many campgrounds, like Pawtuckaway State Park Campground, provide easy access to lakes for kayaking. One reviewer mentioned, "Lots of great spots on the water, easy to put a kayak in from."
  • Hiking: Explore the trails at Franconia Notch State Park. A visitor noted, "There are many opportunities for hiking, with trails leading to many special points of interest."
  • Fishing: Campgrounds like Moose Brook State Park Campground are great for fishing. One happy camper shared, "Pulled an 8” brook trout out of a 10’ wide stream onsite."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A reviewer at Bear Brook State Park Campground said, "The bathrooms were very clean!"
  • Friendly Staff: Many campgrounds have helpful staff. A visitor at Lafayette Place Campground mentioned, "Helpful staff and good facilities."
  • Scenic Views: Campers love the beautiful surroundings. One reviewer at Dry River Campground said, "Cool location right on the edge of the Dry River Wilderness."

What you should know:

  • Site Privacy: Some campgrounds have sites that are close together. A camper at Crawford Notch Campground noted, "The sites are packed together, close to the highway."
  • 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."
  • Reservation System: Some popular sites can be hard to book. A camper at Lost River Valley Campground expressed frustration, saying, "The nicest sites were reserved the entire time we were there and they were total no-shows."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with amenities like playgrounds. One reviewer at Bear Brook State Park Campground said, "The campground has a beach, a playground, a ball field, and a store."
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities to keep kids entertained. A camper at White Lake State Park Campground mentioned, "The lake was beautiful—warm and crystal clear, soft sand, with a trail around it."
  • Pack for Weather: Be prepared for changing weather conditions. 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."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Dry River Campground said, "Some of the sites have a view of the road, which isn’t too pleasant."
  • Look for Amenities: Choose campgrounds with electric hookups if needed. A camper at Lost River Valley Campground mentioned, "The hookups look new."
  • Be Mindful of Noise: Some campgrounds can be noisy. A visitor at Crawford Notch Campground warned, "There is literally no one in charge on site at any time and there is no maintenance."

Camping around Laconia, New Hampshire, offers a variety of experiences, from serene lakes to bustling campgrounds. Whether you're in a tent, RV, or cabin, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best campgrounds in Laconia, NH?

The Laconia area offers several excellent camping options. Granite State Campground stands out with its new bath houses and updated hook-ups, making it a popular choice for families. It's conveniently located near Lake Winnisquam and Lake Winnipesaukee, with easy access to Gunstock Mountain. For those seeking a more natural setting, Gunstock Campground provides a beautiful wooded environment with various access options including drive-in and hike-in sites. The campground features reservable spots with water and toilet facilities, and is accommodating for larger RVs.

Can I rent an RV in Laconia, New Hampshire for camping?

Yes, you can rent an RV in the Laconia area for camping adventures. While specific rental services aren't mentioned in the reviews, Laconia's popularity as a tourist destination, especially during Motorcycle Week, means several RV rental companies operate in the region. Once you've secured a rental, Harbor Hill Camping Area in nearby Meredith is an excellent big-rig-friendly option with drive-in access, water, and toilet facilities. For your rental search, check local listings, national rental chains with New Hampshire locations, or peer-to-peer rental platforms that connect RV owners with renters.

How close are campgrounds to Weirs Beach in Laconia, NH?

Paugus Bay Campground is one of the closest options to Weirs Beach, offering convenient access to this popular Laconia attraction. This campground provides multiple access points including boat-in and drive-in options, with reservable sites featuring water and toilet facilities. It's also big-rig friendly for RV campers. Another nearby option is Meredith Woods Four Season Camping, located a short drive from Weirs Beach in neighboring Meredith. This year-round facility offers drive-in access with similar amenities and is suitable for larger recreational vehicles.

Are there tent camping sites near Laconia, NH?

Yes, there are several tent-friendly campgrounds near Laconia. Bear Brook State Park Campground offers an excellent tent camping experience in New Hampshire's largest state park. This family-friendly destination features numerous trails, ponds, play structures, a camp store, and a beach. For a more intimate tent camping experience, Country Bumpkins Campground and Cabins provides scenic spots right along the river. The campground features ample parking and beautiful surroundings typical of New Hampshire's natural landscape.