Best Campgrounds near New Hampton, NH
The Lakes Region surrounding New Hampton, New Hampshire features a variety of established campgrounds within a 20-mile radius, primarily concentrated around nearby water bodies. Meredith Woods Four Season Camping and Clearwater Campground, both located along NH Route 104, provide full-hookup options for RVs while also offering cabin accommodations. Gunstock Campground in Gilford, with 250 sites, stands as one of the larger facilities in the area, providing multiple access types including drive-in, hike-in, and walk-in options. The region's camping landscape includes a mix of privately-owned resorts and state-managed facilities, with most campgrounds situated near Lake Winnipesaukee, Newfound Lake, and other smaller bodies of water.
Most campgrounds in the New Hampton vicinity operate seasonally from May through mid-October, with only a few facilities like Paugus Bay Campground remaining open year-round. Advance reservations are strongly recommended during summer months when waterfront sites fill quickly. Cell service varies significantly throughout the region, with better coverage in developed areas and limited or no service in more remote locations. As one camper noted, "We did not have cellular service at Big Rock, but did have access to cell service in the town of Lincoln, 8 minutes away." Weather considerations include potential microbursts during summer thunderstorms and mosquito activity, particularly in wooded areas near water.
Waterfront access represents a significant draw for many campgrounds in the region, with several facilities offering boat launches, swimming areas, and water-based recreation. Sites with lake or river views typically command premium rates and require earlier booking. Campers frequently mention the wooded nature of most sites, providing natural privacy between camping spots. As one visitor observed, "The sites are wooded and many provide views of the lake. Each campsite has an open fire ring, picnic table, flat areas for a tent, and a parking space." Family-friendly amenities are common at larger establishments, including playgrounds, organized activities, and camp stores. Road noise can be an issue at some locations, with several reviewers recommending requesting sites farther from highways for a quieter experience.