The Meredith region sits at approximately 500 feet elevation in New Hampshire's Lakes Region, where pine forests meet the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing between November and March, with summer highs reaching the mid-80s. Campgrounds typically operate from May through mid-October, with some facilities remaining open year-round for winter camping experiences.
What to do
Hiking at Gunstock Mountain: Trails at Gunstock Campground offer access to diverse terrain within a 25-minute drive from Meredith. "I was lucky to receive a tranquil, secluded spot next to a brook - perfect. This campground has nothing to do, or plenty you can do - walking, hiking, biking, and close access to all Gunstock's adventures," notes Carolyn S.
Kayaking on Lake Winnipesaukee: Rent equipment at Long Island Bridge Campground where watercraft rentals are available directly on site. "This was an absolutely beautiful four day weekend spent at this campground. They had perfect kayaks that we could rent for a Sunday on the water. The spot looked like a post card," according to Madison K.
Swimming at White Lake: White Lake State Park Campground features a large sandy beach area with mountain views. "The lake is clear, the swimming area is shallow for quite a distance so you can feel comfortable with kids, and there is a separate boat launch area. If you don't have your own boats, they offer rentals of kayaks and paddle boats," shares Jean C.
What campers like
Indoor recreation options: Meredith Woods Four Season Camping offers heated indoor facilities open throughout winter. "Indoor pool and hot tub are amazing on a snowy frigid winter day. Utility sink for dishes available in heated bathhouse," writes Mara S., who appreciates the cold-weather amenities.
Spacious wooded campsites: Sites at Gunstock Campground provide ample room for larger setups. "This campground overall is very nice. I recommend the sites back in Breezy Knolls (K01-K17 I think?) and then I believe sites 203 and 205 were nice and tucked away in the trees as well," recommends Melissa B.
Clean bathroom facilities: Campgrounds maintain high standards for restroom cleanliness. At Ames Brook Campground, "the grounds are very well maintained and the bathrooms and showers are exceptionally clean (and free hot showers with good water pressure!)," notes Michelle F. about the facilities.
What you should know
Seasonal operation changes: Several campgrounds have undergone management changes. "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," advises John L. about Meredith Woods.
Winter camping considerations: Meredith Woods Four Season Camping provides reliable winter services. "Snow ploughing happens regularly and reliably. Squeaky clean - and that's not always easy especially in the winter when everyone drags snow, slush and mud into the bathroom," reports Mara S.
Waterfront site availability: Lake access varies between campgrounds. "Campground is right on the lake, very clean, pet friendly, employees are great, overall just a nice place to relax and enjoy yourself!" writes Austin M. about Long Island Bridge Campground's waterfront location.
Tips for camping with families
Look for kids' activities: Family-oriented campgrounds offer structured recreation. At Clearwater Campground, "Swimming: 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," explains Brandon C.
Choose sites for privacy: Family camping requires space considerations. "Site 27 is very large, near a cute babbling brook. Rained the majority of the evening, so the brook grew quite a bit but didn't intrude on the site," describes Michelle B. about her experience at Ames Brook Campground.
Consider lake safety features: White Lake State Park offers family-friendly swimming areas. "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," shares Amanda about the park's amenities.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Paugus Bay Campground presents some difficulties 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," advises Chase B., noting the campground's space limitations.
Hookup locations matter: Check utility placement before setting up. "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," reports Zachary W. about Paugus Bay Campground.
Pet-friendly options throughout region: Nearly all campgrounds near Meredith welcome pets with standard restrictions. "Campground is right on the lake, very clean, pet friendly, employees are great," confirms Austin M. about Long Island Bridge Campground, demonstrating the availability of pet friendly camping near Meredith, New Hampshire.