How to Plan a Camping Trip Near the Lakes Region
July 6, 2024
New Hampshire’s Lakes Region isn’t just about water activities — it’s also one of the best areas in New England for camping. From lakeside campsites with boat access to secluded spots in the White Mountains, the Lakes Region offers a variety of camping options for both beginners and experienced campers.
Camping in the Lakes Region gives you the best of both worlds: direct access to swimming, fishing, and boating during the day, and peaceful, starlit nights by the campfire. In this guide, we’ll cover the best campgrounds, what to pack, and tips for making the most of your lakeside camping experience.
Why the Lakes Region is Perfect for Camping
Water Access: Many campsites are located directly on lakeshores.
Variety of Terrain: Choose from wooded sites, beachfront sites, and mountain overlooks.
Family-Friendly: Most campgrounds offer playgrounds, organized activities, and safe swimming areas.
Pet-Friendly: Many campgrounds allow leashed dogs and offer dog-friendly trails.
Best Campgrounds in the Lakes Region
1. Ellacoya State Park (Lake Winnipesaukee)
- Location: Gilford
- Type: RV and tent camping
- Amenities:
- Direct beach access
- Picnic areas and grills
- Restrooms and showers
Ellacoya State Park is one of the most popular campgrounds in the Lakes Region due to its prime location on Lake Winnipesaukee. Campers have access to a large sandy beach, a boat launch, and calm swimming areas.
Tip: Ellacoya books up quickly — reserve your site at least 3 months in advance.
2. White Lake State Park (Tamworth)
- Location: Near Ossipee Lake
- Type: Tent and RV camping
- Amenities:
- Sandy beach with swimming area
- Kayak and canoe rentals
- Hiking trails around the lake
White Lake State Park is a great option for families thanks to its calm, shallow water and easy-to-navigate trails.
Tip: Campsites along the water offer the best sunrise views.
3. Gunstock Mountain Resort (Gilford)
- Location: Near Lake Winnipesaukee
- Type: Tent, RV, and cabin rentals
- Amenities:
- Hiking and mountain biking trails
- On-site zip line and adventure park
- Heated pool and playground
Gunstock Mountain Resort is a four-season destination, but summer is especially popular due to its combination of lake access and mountain trails.
Tip: Book a mountaintop campsite for the best views of Lake Winnipesaukee.
4. Wellington State Park (Newfound Lake)
- Location: Bristol
- Type: Tent and RV camping
- Amenities:
- Largest freshwater swimming beach in New Hampshire
- Boat launch and kayak rentals
- Picnic areas with grills
Wellington State Park offers a quieter alternative to the busier Lake Winnipesaukee area. Its clear water and sandy beach make it perfect for swimming and relaxing.
Tip: The campsites closest to the water fill up fast — book early.
5. Bear Brook State Park
- Location: Allenstown
- Type: Tent, RV, and cabin rentals
- Amenities:
- Over 40 miles of hiking and biking trails
- Fishing ponds and archery ranges
- Shaded sites with fire pits
Bear Brook State Park is one of the largest state parks in New Hampshire and offers a wide variety of terrain, from dense forest to open meadows.
Tip: Rent a cabin for added comfort — they come with heating and basic kitchen supplies.
6. Hancock Campground (Lincoln)
- Location: Near Kancamagus Highway
- Type: Tent and small RV camping
- Amenities:
- Riverside campsites
- Hiking trails nearby
- Fire rings and picnic tables
Hancock Campground is a great base for exploring the White Mountains while still being close to the Lakes Region.
Tip: The riverside sites fill up quickly — arrive early to claim a spot.
7. Tamworth Camping Area
- Location: Near Chocorua Lake
- Type: Tent, RV, and cabin rentals
- Amenities:
- Direct access to the Bearcamp River
- Camp store and laundry facilities
- Fishing and tubing options
Tamworth Camping Area is a family-friendly option with lots of shade and calm water for younger kids.
Tip: Book a riverfront site for easy access to tubing and fishing.
What to Pack for a Lakeside Camping Trip
Packing smart makes a huge difference when you’re camping near the water.
Camping Gear:
- Tent with rain cover
- Sleeping bags and sleeping pads
- Headlamps and flashlights
- Portable camp stove and fuel
Clothing:
- Moisture-wicking shirts and pants
- Extra socks and waterproof boots
- Fleece jacket for cool nights
- Lightweight rain gear
Food and Cooking Supplies:
- Cooler with ice packs
- Portable grill or camp stove
- Non-perishable snacks
- Coffee and portable coffee maker
Water and Beach Gear:
- Swimsuit and towel
- Sandals or water shoes
- Sunscreen and bug spray
- Dry bag for electronics
Best Time to Camp in the Lakes Region
Summer: June through August offers the best weather for swimming and water activities.
Fall: September and October are perfect for cooler weather and leaf peeping.
Spring: Early May through June is great for fishing and wildlife watching.
Winter: Some campgrounds remain open for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
Tip: Summer weekends are the busiest — book midweek for quieter conditions.
Family-Friendly Camping Activities
Camping with kids? Here are some easy, low-stress activities:
- Scavenger Hunts: Create a list of plants, animals, and trail signs for kids to find.
- Fishing: Stocked lakes and ponds make it easy for beginners to catch something.
- Campfire Cooking: Try roasting marshmallows or making foil-wrapped meals.
- Storytelling: Gather around the campfire and tell ghost stories (or funny ones).
- Swimming: Look for sandy beaches with shallow water for the safest experience.
Pet-Friendly Camping Tips
Check the Rules: Some campgrounds have leash restrictions or dog-free zones.
Bring a Tether: Keep your dog secure at the campsite.
Pack Water and Treats: Bring a collapsible water bowl and extra snacks.
Keep it Clean: Always clean up after your pet to keep campgrounds dog-friendly.
How to Choose the Right Campground
Best for Families: Ellacoya State Park, White Lake State Park
Best for Water Access: Wellington State Park, Bear Brook State Park
Best for Seclusion: Hancock Campground, Tamworth Camping Area
Best for Mountain Views: Gunstock Mountain Resort, Bear Notch Trail
Why the Lakes Region is a Camper’s Paradise
The combination of lakes, mountains, and forests makes the Lakes Region a dream destination for campers. Whether you prefer the convenience of an RV site with hookups or a secluded backcountry tent site, there’s a camping option to match your style.
With direct access to swimming, fishing, and hiking, you can spend the day exploring and return to a peaceful lakeside campfire in the evening.
Conclusion
Camping in New Hampshire’s Lakes Region combines the best of lake and mountain life. From pitching a tent under the stars to waking up with a morning swim, the region’s wide variety of campgrounds and natural beauty makes it easy to create unforgettable memories.
Ready to plan your next camping trip? Book a lakeside campsite today and experience the best of New Hampshire’s outdoors!
