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Waterside Camping

The best lakeside camping in New Hampshire

Name: New Hampshire
Address: New Hampshire
Rating: 4.807

New Hampshire is the perfect place to find a lakeshore campsite. Set between neighboring Maine, Vermont, and Massachusetts, this small state has a landscape that was carved by glaciers long ago, leaving basins now filled by endless lakes, ponds, rivers, and streams. Today, you can easily access these waters from major New England cities like Boston, Manchester , Portsmouth, Concord, and Portland. New Hampshire even has an official Lakes Region, where you can bike the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee, paddle a kayak on Squam Lake, or explore the hiking trails near Lake Sunapee, Lake Wentworth, and Ossipee Lake. All over the state you’ll be able to find a wide variety of lakeside camping—try a tipi tent high in the trees, a campsite with swimming, or a sandy shore site with your RV or tent. Camping a little too rustic? Rent a cabin with lake access, a lakefront cottage, or relax with pond-front glamping. New Hampshire also hosts many waterfront state parks including Bear Brook, White Lake, Ellacoya, Greenfield, Pawtuckaway, and Umbagog—all offering lake recreation. Find the perfect camping spot or vacation rental near water on your quest for lake camping in New Hampshire.

96% (2.1K) • 1,695 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in New Hampshire

Sacred Nectar Sanctuary

1. Sacred Nectar Sanctuary

100%

(2048)

North Sandwich, NH · 14 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Simply the best tenting you can find in the White Mountains. The campground to get away from campgrounds, where magic touches every corner. Sacred Nectar rests on the land of the Wabanaki Tribes. This land, now known by it's view gifting fields, is one of Sandwich's top treasured gems. The Historic Farm was purchased by Townsend Thorndike from the first colonizing family to claim ownership of this unceded land, the McCrillis family. It was Town's place to get away from the busy life. As time went on and his money dwindled and plans to sell off some of the land arose. Townsend's son, Nick, foresaw a devastating development of conventional homes that would diminish the soul of this sacred land that held so much magic. So, Nick decided to move back to the homestead to create an example of what a healthy life for the land and its inhabitants looks like. HipCamp was the first step towards sharing and opening up the land to create an Intentional lifestyle. One in which we hope to share our way of being that brings awareness to the natural world we have fallen so far from. Nick and his tribe of like minds are creating a holistic, educational, retreat, workshop, and event center where people can come to learn how to co-exist in a harmonious relationship with nature and each other. Thank you for being a part of the healing. We hope you enjoy what we have created here :)

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Tripp Mine Gemstones & Camping

2. Tripp Mine Gemstones & Camping

98%

(111)

Alstead, NH · 6 sites

Green Maple Farms and Tripp and Clark Mine. 104 acres, this unique property includes two mines with Aquamarine, Beryl, Feldspar, Mica, Pegmatite, Garnets, and more! Multiple creeks/brooks feeding the Island Mine and Cranberry Ponds. Minutes from Lake Warren, 15 minutes outside of Keene NH.

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Spacious Skies French Pond Campground

3. Spacious Skies French Pond Campground

92%

(60)

Henniker, NH · 32 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Escape to Spacious Skies French Pond Campground, a family-friendly oasis nestled in the heart of New Hampshire’s natural beauty. Whether you crave the cozy comfort of a wooded RV site, the simplicity of tent camping under the stars, or the charm of a Pegasus Bungalow with all the comforts of home, your perfect adventure starts here. Accommodations for Every Adventure Choose from a variety of stays to suit your style: - RV Sites – wooded and open options with picnic tables, fire rings, and full hookups, including sewer connections. - Tent Sites – perfect for adventurers seeking a classic camping experience. - Pegasus Bungalow – enjoy a unique stay in our stylish bungalow, blending rustic charm with modern amenities for a truly memorable getaway. Activities to Keep Everyone Smiling Let French Pond be your playground—swim, kayak, canoe, paddleboat, or cast a line for a relaxing day on the water. Prefer poolside relaxation? Our heated saltwater pool is ready whenever you are. For thrill-seekers, nearby ATV trails promise exciting adventures beyond the campground. Fun Beyond the Outdoors Spacious Skies French Pond isn’t just about the wilderness—it’s about connection and fun! Gather in our historic pavilion for lively events, or step into our nostalgic rec hall, where a vintage player piano sets the scene for simple joys and shared memories. From lakeside leisure to adrenaline-filled outings, there’s something for everyone at Spacious Skies French Pond Campground. Don’t miss your chance to create unforgettable memories—book your getaway today!

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Full hookups

White Mountain National Forest

4. White Mountain National Forest

97%

(87)

National forest in New Hampshire · 833 sites

Find a variety of hiking trails, camping experiences, and scenic views in this New England forest.

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Franconia Notch State Park

5. Franconia Notch State Park

100%

(16)

State park in New Hampshire · 96 sites

Mountain biking, climbing and hiking adventures await at this NH park.

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Feathers & Wedges Tea Farm

6. Feathers & Wedges Tea Farm

96%

(36)

Tamworth, NH · 1 site

Unplug &; unwind at our tea herb farm on the edge of the quaint village of Tamworth! With meadow, forest and great trails, right outside the door. A peaceful spot, that’s so close to everything: The Barnstormers Theater, The Tamworth Distillery and The Tamworth Bakery, all along the Swift River, less than one mile away. And the Best Farmer's Market every Saturday morning, where you can get: vegetables, fruit, meats, dairy, prepared breakfast sandwiches, ice cream, honey, maple syrup, jerky, seafood, coffee, tea, pastry, bread, kombucha and more. And visit the UUsed thrift store while you’re at it! Upon entering the back of the tent, you’ll find: A comfortable King sized bed that can be turned into 2 twin beds(just let us know in advance). 100% cotton sheets, locally made wool blankets, and down comforters. We use completely scent and dye free laundering products. Lighting, outlets to charge your accessories, a fan for hot nights, a comfortable place to rest inside the tent, as well as numerous benches and Adirondack chairs outside. You will also have access to the clothesline for wet clothing/gear and our fire pit(weather permitting) There is a rustic outhouse on site with toilet paper, hand sanitizer and water for handwashing. We do not provide trash receptacles! Please take any trash with you: Pack in, Pack out. Jarred potable water is available inside the tent as well as a spigot at the front of the house for refilling. ***Food is absolutely not allowed in the tent, though you may eat on the grounds. You must store any food and food containers that you brought with you in your vehicle. ***Absolutely NO Smoking or Vaping is aloud on site! ***This is a Pack In, Pack Out property: take ALL your trash with you please!

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Campers Welcome to The Wolf Swamp.

7. Campers Welcome to The Wolf Swamp.

98%

(681)

Canterbury, NH · 12 sites · Tents, RVs

The Wolf Swamp is off the beaten path, it was named by the Pony Express Riders who traveled the Trails from the Canterbury Railroad Station to the Northfield Station. They reported many Wolf sitings in The Swamp over the years and the name stuck. We are located on 52 acres with amazing views, trails and beautiful Beaver Ponds. Although we are about a mile out in the woods, w are 10 minutes from everything, shopping, restaurants, local attractions which include local farm stands, places to swim, fish, kayak and the Merrimack River. There is a playground park and Pond 5 minutes away for the Family to enjoy. Also several local Brewpubs close by, we are only 10 minutes from the Highland Mountain Bike Park.

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Camp Ebb and Flow

8. Camp Ebb and Flow

100%

(177)

Orford, NH · 7 sites · Tents, RVs

Camp Ebb and Flow is located on the western edge of the White Mountains, near the crossing of the Appalachian Trail and a short drive to VT. Three lakes nearby for swimming, kayaking, and fishing. Hiking trails nearby. The camp offers RV sites with water, electricity, and sewer, an RV site with no hookups, and several tent sites. One of the tent sites has water and electricity and another has electricity with nearby water. There is bathhouse with two toilets and two vanities as well as a shower with changing room. Potable water is also available from a spigot at the bathhouse. There are over six acres of mowed fields for activities and walking. There is also a lovely brook running through the property. This property has a lengthy history going back to colonial times. It’s been a farm, an apple orchard, and once had a sawmill. Please check the calendar for available dates. Check-in is no later than 9pm unless late arrival arrangements have been made prior to booking. Whenever possible, try to arrive before dark because there are no lights at most sites, which can make setup difficult. A note regarding electric vehicles (EV): If you have an electric vehicle and would like to tent camp, please select one of our full hookup RV sites. If you have the proper electric adapter for your vehicle, you can charge your vehicle at the 30A RV plug while tenting in the field near the RV site. We do not supply these adapters, and we cannot allow you to charge your vehicle unless you have reserved an RV site with full hookups. If you do not see an open site for the days you'd like to get away, please contact us. Sometimes we can make other arrangements, allowing you to stay.

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Full hookups

Tiny House, Horse Trailer, S Tent

9. Tiny House, Horse Trailer, S Tent

99%

(101)

Bennington, NH · 3 sites

Choose from a variety of unique accommodations situated on the Contoocook River and Powder Mill Pond in Southern NH at our 27 acre Rustic Chic Retreat. Find some info and links of several of the sites located on the property. Be it swimming, kayaking, boating, sunning, hiking, biking, or fishing; spectacular fall foliage, and bird watching or winter sports like skiing, boarding, ice skating, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing,....take time out to enjoy what nature has to offer to the fullest, right here in your new backyard. Explore nature’s wonderland; starting with 27 acres of woods and waterfront beauty on Powder Mill Pond and the Contoocook River. During the warmer weather, you can hop in one of the kayaks, canoes, and paddle boats, (on-site for a small rental fee), sunbathe on the refreshing 30 ft. lily pad, or simply relax in the swing or hammock looking out over Mount Monadnock. During the winter, cross country ski, ice skate or fish or strap-on a pair of the complimentary snowshoes ...while year round, enjoy sharing s’mores and stories by the fire pit! You can also explore several other accomodations listed on Airbnb if you do not find what you are looking for here.

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Pawtuckaway State Park

10. Pawtuckaway State Park

100%

(15)

State park in New Hampshire · 173 sites

The lake is the star attraction at this popular New Hampshire park.

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Pillsbury State Park

11. Pillsbury State Park

100%

(5)

State park in New Hampshire · 35 sites

This New Hampshire park is one of the state’s best-kept secrets.

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White Lake State Park

12. White Lake State Park

100%

(6)

State park in New Hampshire · 168 sites

A pristine glacial lake ideal for swimming, paddling, and enjoying nature.

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Showers

Lake Francis State Park

13. Lake Francis State Park

100%

(3)

State park in New Hampshire · 46 sites

Visitors can explore this park by foot, wheels, or oars.

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Sip Pond Lakefront Cottage

14. Sip Pond Lakefront Cottage

99%

(34)

NH · 1 site

This is a cozy off grid cottage, right on Sip Pond, situated on 1.2 acres of land. The cottage is 380 sq. feet that runs on a generator. There is a Port a potty, there is no running water. The property has a dock and a fire pit. The pond is 114 acres, quiet and great for kayaking, SUPing, fishing etc. Near by there are hiking trails, snow mobile trails. The Rhododendron State Park and Mt. Madonock are near by.

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Duncan Lake Island

15. Duncan Lake Island

99%

(34)

Center Ossipee, NH · 1 site

Quiet and peaceful island in Duncan Lake, Ossipee, NH. Fall asleep listening to the loons, and wake up to beautiful sunrises! Approximately half an acre with plenty of level spots for tenting, great fishing (lake is stocked with trout), and excellent swimming. Property has a flat top Blackstone propane griddle (propane not provided), charcoal BBQ, and picnic table. Lots of hiking opportunities in the immediate area. Given the location, potential renters MUST have a canoe/kayak to access the land from the public beach. There are no restroom facilities of any kind, so please be prepared to pack in/pack out your preferred solution. Enjoy the serenity of this unique island oasis! Available May 1st - Oct 31st only. Parking is available at the public beach (Cleveland Beach). Access from East Side Drive is not permitted - launch from the boat launch or Cleveland Beach only, please.

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Great North Woods Farm Lake Umbagog

16. Great North Woods Farm Lake Umbagog

100%

(18)

Errol, NH · 11 sites

Tucked away in the Lake Umbagog wilderness, we are a small privately-owned farm with the wonders of the area surrounding us. Boating and fishing? Check. Hiking and mountain-biking? Check. Swimming and Sailing? Check! All the fun and memories that go with camping and bonfires and outdoor cooking! Check! IMPORTANT PLEASE NOTE: We are intentionally remote, secluded, and off-grid. We are best accessed by water (1.3 mile paddle or motorboat), with a seasonal (May 15-December 1) 9-mile very rough (4wd) logging access road (minimum vehicle clearance 8in---seriously). For first-time guests arriving by road, you will need to be guided in---the property is impossible to find on your own (no gps, no map). If you arrive by road, please note that you must park (free/overnight/safe/secure) at a narrow trailhead and walk to the lakeside sites about 1/4 mile down the hill. We are happy to help you with your gear and have a couple of wheelbarrows and sometimes an ATV. So unless you want to RV/truck/car camp at the trailhead (definitely an option), it is tent-only camping on the lakeshore and garden sites. Please don't ask if you can drive your vehicle right down to the site---we don't even drive our own down. However you decide to arrive, we are happy to guide you at no extra charge. We do have cellular phone service on site and shoreline but NOT on the logging road in. [There is unfortunately no way for us to make the property accessible for guests who need the use of personal mobility equipment. Also, from experience, we MUST caution those with medical conditions that this is a WILDERNESS location, at least two hours from any medical facilities and very difficult to even medevac.] We have a small fishing boat (paddle only), 1 kayak, 3 mountain bikes, and a canoe for rent; firewood for purchase on site; your choice of spots to pitch a tent or use our raised platform. NEW for this season! Powerboats! 20ft/200 hp and 17ft/125hp outboard deep v-hull boats for fun or fishing. Book here: https://www.getmyboat.com/trips/VKVG2V5N/ and here: https://www.getmyboat.com/trips/WYb4rMVN/ Join us for astonishing sunsets, breathtaking wildlife, and beautiful gardens. We can't wait to meet you!

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Picnic table

White Mountains Deer Bear Campsite

17. White Mountains Deer Bear Campsite

94%

(39)

Littleton, NH · 4 sites · Tents, Lodging

A beautiful neighborhood campsite with forest and field views and Littleton, NH adjacent. Hiking, fishing, bike and OHV trails are very accessible (2- 10 mins) from the land. The site boasts of meadows and a forested area in addition to a melodious creek to sooth your night's sleep. A heated shower and Propane heat is available (extra fee) or Winter camping in our Glamping Cabin. Take in all the White Mountains have to offer each season. We have a meadow and forested area for your own tent/camping, our own spacious tent with camping pads or airbed, or glamping in our insulated shed with a comfy bed, and solar charger (additional $20/night above the base camping fee). Compost toilet, solar shower, and spring water on site as well. You will thoroughly enjoy this serene nature getaway! 2 nights minimum required.

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Homestead Farm Retreat

18. Homestead Farm Retreat

100%

(15)

Gilmanton, NH · 1 site · Tent, RV

Privately nestled in a historic farming community, this RV and tent site offers views of fields and distant hills. Surrounded by conservation land with maintained walking trails leading to Meeting House Pond (46 acres), guests can enjoy public fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. The owners reside on-site, but not in view, in a charming 1790s farmhouse. The property is within walking distance to Meeting House Pond, and the Meeting House Cemetery where Grace Metalious, author of "Peyton Place," is buried. The conservation land features a rare flax retting pond, adding to the unique experience. Whether you seek a easily accessible spot for your RV, camper, or tent activities to enrich your stay, this site offers a glimpse into early American life.

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Blue Heron Camp

19. Blue Heron Camp

95%

(89)

Nelson, NH · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

I have been on this land for 45 years and have improved it but let nature reign. Animals that have passed through, and some have stayed: Birds, turkeys, owls, coyotes, bear , moose, deer, bobcat, squirrels, chip monks, voles and mice, raccoon, possum, fox, and fisher. Eggs and veggies for sale in season.

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The Saco Experience

20. The Saco Experience

57%

(15)

Center Conway, NH · 10 sites · Tents, RVs

Our property is located in the heart of Conway and all the Mount Washington Valley has to offer. We are about a mile walk from the Saco river and the same for Conway Lake. We have a Canoe Company on site that is run all summer, and highly recommend our campers utilize the rentals. We have small pop up events like live music, farmers markets, and craft fairs in the back yard, so if that is something of interest inquire with us for what days we will be hosting. We also have a Yoga teacher on site willing to teach private yoga classes to all who desire them.Learn more about this land:A Big field with a fire ring in the middle. It is a quarter mile walk to the Saco river. A short drive to all amenities the Mount Washington Valley has to offer

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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Angela

2 days ago

16 ft car

1 night at Homestead Farm Retreat

Beautiful spot with flowers, trees, birds and vast farm land. Was a 20 min drive to Bank of NH Pavillion so that was perfect. I got up early to do the hike but mosquitoes were bad due to an overnight rain storm. That being said, I parked on sunflowers so was easily able to park before and after the rain. It's a smooth flat area. Will definitely come back when doing anything in the lakes region.

Brittany

1 week ago

3 nights at Crescent Moon Cabin

Sheryl's cabin was absolutely beautiful and she was a wonderful hostess. Everything we needed for our stay there was available. The cabin was very clean and laid out very nicely. The pond was amazing and was so much fun to go kayaking on.

Bliss

1 week ago

Weekend Trip to Feathers & Wedges Tea Farm

Super clean! We appreciated having a communicative host who also gave us privacy. The bed was comfy, and the fan helped keep the evenings cool even during the heat wave :) we enjoyed watching the fireflies under the stars. Great experience.

Shannon

2 weeks ago

With pets

2 nights at Sacred Nectar Sanctuary

The Magick Cabin embodies its name!! While the view is captivating looking across the White Mountains, the cabin’s beauty lies in every detail-from the marble course in the outhouse to the ducks swimming on the ceiling! Thanks so much Nick and family!

Jonathan

2 weeks ago

Tent

8 nights at Homestead Farm Retreat

It was peaceful and quiet. I loved seeing the fireflies and the great view of the night sky.

Abby

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

1 night at Camp Ebb and Flow

This was such a great find. Jeff and Jill accommodated me last minute, and were such kind and thoughtful hosts. This is a step up from your average campground with an amazing bathhouse, WiFi, walking trails, etc. I will 100% be back. I felt super safe as a solo camper with my dog.

Jennie

2 weeks ago

With kids

Weekend Trip to Sacred Nectar Sanctuary

We had a truly magical time at The Magick Cabin Adventure! Nick was an amazing host and very responsive to our questions. The view from anywhere on the site is incredible. There is something new to see in every inch of the cabin. The amount of detail and care in making the cabin is mind blowing! I cannot recommend this experience enough!

Madison

2 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Campers Welcome to The Wolf Swamp.

The place is very beautiful and scenic, could definitely hear the highway from site 6 but that was no issue for us it was peaceful and secluded where we booked. They were very helpful in recommending places to fish and kayak, and delivering firewood daily. 10/10 would recommend

Vincent

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to White Mountains Deer Bear Campsite

Craig's land is a nice setup. It has good privacy from the road and town, but is a quick trip to Littleton, Franconia, and Franconia Notch. There is ample flat space to set up a tent and there are suitable trees for a hammock setup down by the brook. A comfortable fire ring with good firewood and the composting toilet and shower setup made it quite comfortable. Craig is a pleasant host who is helpful and allows you to have as much privacy as you would like.

Mike

2 weeks ago

16 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Camp Ebb and Flow

As always a beautiful morning view with the clouds lifting off the mountain, a green and grassy meadow to camp on, even with full hookups, the amazing bathhouse, and supreme hosts Jill & Jeff. We just keep coming back! Great hiking nearby, rail trails not too far, good breakfast place a short drive away.

Anas

2 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Camp Ebb and Flow

Lovely place and vibes and the kids loved it. Also super clean. Thanks so much Jeff and Jill for hosting us!

Jim

3 weeks ago

2 nights at Sip Pond Lakefront Cottage

My wife and I booked this as a couples' getaway and had a wonderful time. Despite rainy weather for much of our stay, the pondfront setting was beautiful and peaceful. The wood-burning stove made the cottage especially cozy, and we found ourselves enjoying the sound of the rain and the view across the water. A perfect place to unplug, relax, and spend quality time together. We'd definitely come back.

Kourtney

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Sip Pond Lakefront Cottage

The perfect feeling of elevated camping! The wrap around windows and bench seats make this place so cozy. You have most everything you may need as noted in other reviews. Worth noting electricity is on generator only but there was even a charger battery pack left for us with outlet/USB connections should you need it to charge phones and such. Only turned electricity on for use of coffee pot!

Donald M.

3 weeks ago

22 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Blue Heron Camp

Friendly host; beautiful setting; quiet and peaceful

Kate

3 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Campers Welcome to The Wolf Swamp.

Absolutely LOVED our group weekend away at Wolf Swamp - its not really a swamp! Its the side of a gorgeous hillside - excellent views, beautiful sites, GREAT firewood, and Elle and Dwayne were both super friendly and kind. Will be back for SURE - so glad we stayed!!! Each site is SO FAR from the next, you can go the entire weekend without hearing or seeing anyone else! The highway makes a touch of noise, but it was easy to avoid / ignore based on what site you chose. It was also the start of Bike Week, so we expected some traffic noise, which we could only really hear at night, and then just barely. Beautiful, clean, isolated - a great spot to stay!

Benjamin

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Great North Woods Farm Lake Umbagog

Beautiful location and the host was great! You can either arrive by boat or driving down a 9 mile logging road. We chose the road since we had our dog. The sit is a short walk from the road and skip loaded up her atv to help us bring our gear down. Property is right on the water with a beautiful view, tons of trails around and very isolated. We had a great time and would definitely recommend staying here!

Tammi

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Campers Welcome to The Wolf Swamp.

Here’s to another great camping weekend at The Wolf Swamp!! We have stayed here two times now and both times at Jessie James Hideout. Absolutely love the campsite❤️ Elle and her partner are amazing hosts and I can’t wait to come back again!!!

Jamie

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

4 nights at Campers Welcome to The Wolf Swamp.

Great secluded spot, lots of privacy, Elle and Dwaine are very friendly.

justin

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Camp Ebb and Flow

Such an amazing property. I almost didn't want to write this review so less people would book them out so i could come more but that would be a disservice to the incredible owners. They are extremely nice and welcoming. The property and surrounding areas are absolutely beautiful. Sites were private and well spaced out from each other, something you'll never get at a commercial campground. The owners were very inviting and loved to tell us some of the history and renovations done to the property which was really cool. I would highly recommend this place to literally anyone. Will definitely be coming back ASAP