Best Campgrounds near Gilford, NH

Camping near Gilford, 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:

• Hiking: Explore the numerous trails in the area. Many campers enjoy the trails at Pawtuckaway State Park Campground, where one reviewer said, "So many lovely waterfront sites, clean facilities, camp store and beach are great."
• Water Activities: Kayaking and swimming are popular at White Lake State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "The lake water is crystal clear (and warmer than expected)."
• Wildlife Watching: The area is rich in wildlife. A camper at Dry River — Crawford Notch State Park noted, "Great Basecamp for lots of hikes in the area."

What campers like:

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Moose Brook State Park Campground said, "Bathrooms were clean and there is a nice wash station to do dishes."
• Friendly Staff: Many campgrounds have helpful staff. One reviewer at Franconia Notch State Park - Lafayette Place mentioned, "Helpful staff and good facilities."
• Scenic Views: Campers love the beautiful surroundings. A guest at Bear Brook State Park Campground shared, "Set back deep in the woods, I’d call the sites semi-private."

What you should know:

• Site Proximity: Some campgrounds have sites that are close together. A camper at Crawford Notch Campground noted, "The sites are all nice, but they are packed together."
• 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."
• Noise Levels: Some areas can be noisy due to nearby roads. A camper at Lafayette Place Campground said, "There is a bit of noise from Rt. 93."

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose the Right Campground: Look for family-friendly campgrounds like Lost River Valley Campground, where one family shared, "The bathrooms are always clean, the staff in the office and store has been friendly."
• Plan Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities. A camper at Bear Brook State Park Campground mentioned, "The campground has a beach, a playground, a ball field, and a store."
• Pack for Comfort: Bring items that make camping easier for kids. A visitor at Pawtuckaway State Park Campground noted, "Fire pits and picnic tables at every site."

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Dry River — Crawford Notch State Park mentioned, "Some of the sites have a view of the road, which isn’t too pleasant."
• Look for Hookups: Not all campgrounds have electric hookups. A camper at Lost River Valley Campground said, "The hookups look new."
• Be Prepared for Weather: Check the forecast before you go. 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."

Camping near Gilford, New Hampshire, offers a variety of experiences for everyone. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot or a place with lots of activities, there's something for you in this beautiful area.