Camping options near Meredith, New Hampshire range from lakeside sites with water activities to wooded campgrounds with hiking access. Most campgrounds in the area operate from May through mid-October, with sites filling quickly during summer weekends and holidays. The Lakes Region terrain features elevations between 500-700 feet, with most campgrounds situated on flat to gently sloping ground that accommodates standard camping equipment.
What to do
Segway tours and ziplining: At Gunstock Campground, visitors can experience unique recreational activities beyond standard camping. "I went in 2018 and this year I am being my sister and nieces. Love the Segway tour and the adventure zip lining and the coaster it's a fun place and I can't wait to return," notes one camper.
Kayaking on lake access: The calm waters of Lake Winnipesaukee provide ideal conditions for paddling. "They have a nice clean beach area at the lake. Looks like kayak and canoe rentals," reports a visitor to Hunter's Run RV Park (formerly Clearwater Campground). Rental rates typically range from $15-25 per hour depending on watercraft type.
Winter activities: Unlike most area campgrounds that close for winter, some facilities maintain year-round operations. "Indoor pool and hot tub are amazing on a snowy frigid winter day. Utility sink for dishes available in heated bathhouse," notes a winter visitor to Meredith Woods. This makes the Meredith area unique for four-season camping access.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention bathroom and shower quality as important factors. "The bathhouses and showers are exceptionally clean (and free hot showers with good water pressure!). There is also a clean laundry room as well as a nicely kept playground and pool," reports a visitor to Ames Brook Campground.
Campsite spacing and privacy: Site layout varies significantly between campgrounds. "Large campsites, clean amenities, nice dog park, great store with everything you need and located near like Winni," notes one camper about Gunstock Campground. However, at other facilities, space can be limited: "Our site had stone, like some of the others, some small sites but nicely wooded for shade and a little bit of privacy," reports an Ames Brook visitor.
Beach access: Direct lake access ranks high on camper priorities. "This was an absolutely beautiful four day weekend spent at this campground. They had great rent spots, amazing employees, and perfect kayaks that we could rent for a Sunday on the water. The spot looked like a post card," shares a visitor to Long Island Bridge Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal transitions: Many campgrounds have changed ownership or names in recent years. "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," notes a visitor to what was formerly Meredith Woods Four Season Camping Area.
Site leveling challenges: Uneven terrain affects some camping areas. "The RV site was so uneven," reports a visitor to one campground, while another notes at White Lake State Park Campground: "Sites were large and level, but after we pitched our screen tent we realized there were ground nesting bees all over. They didn't bother us, but it was disconcerting."
Campsite availability: Booking patterns vary by season. "Memorial Day weekend, there were still vacancies, but during my Labor Day visit last year sites were full very early Friday morning," notes a White Lake State Park visitor. Most campgrounds require reservations for summer weekends.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access consideration: Swimming facilities vary widely between campgrounds. "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," notes a visitor to Hunter's Run RV Park.
Playground equipment: Age-appropriate play areas matter for families with young children. "Family with kids the only down, wish the playground was bigger, and height smaller. Not a structure for small children," cautions a Meredith Woods visitor, suggesting parents with toddlers check playground suitability before booking.
Noise considerations: Family-friendly environments depend on noise management. "Your experience will depend heavily on your neighbors! A friend and I decided to camp here before a backpacking trip in the Whites... 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 a White Lake State Park visitor.
Tips from RVers
Utility access: Water connection placement varies between sites. "Water hook up was on the opposite side of the site of where the camper needed to be, no sewer hook ups. The owners were very helpful by lending us a hose to help us reach the spigot," notes a visitor to Paugus Bay Campground.
Site maneuverability: Some campgrounds present access challenges for larger rigs. "Sites are EXTREMELY tight. If you have a pull behind, you definitely need to be comfortable backing it up in tight, dicey situations," warns a Paugus Bay visitor. Most campgrounds post maximum RV lengths on their websites.
Seasonal RV options: Long-term stays represent a significant portion of RV camping in the area. "I am disappointed that the new owners have changed the campground to seasonal instead year round," notes a Meredith Woods visitor, highlighting the importance of checking seasonal policies before planning extended stays.
