Campgrounds in Lake Winnipesaukee offer a range of activities, both by land and by lake.
Just south of the White Mountains, New Hampshireâs Lakes Region contains lakes of all shapes and sizes. The largest? Lake Winnipesaukee, which rounds off at 72 square miles. Lake Winnipesaukee camping provides access to some of New Hampshireâs best campgrounds, whether you want a secluded mountain getaway or a family-friendly beach retreat. No matter where you spend the night, youâll glimpse the same sceneryâbut through a different lens. While Lake Winnipesaukee is the areaâs largest lake, they donât call it a Lakes Region for no reason. Lakes scatter the area and vary in attractions, campsites, and vantage points.
Attention, RV campers. On the southwest end of Lake Winnipesaukee, Ellacoya State Park opens from mid-spring to mid-autumn and offers a range of amenities for your next beach getaway. This sandy beach campsite sits right on the water, with a communal picnic area, playground, and boat ramp. Park your RV, and you can swim, lounge, and gaze at the Sandwich and Ossipee Mountains.
Not far from Ellacoya State Park, Belknap Mountain State Forest embraces Lake Winnipesaukee from a higher altitude. Hike up Mount Major, and you can spot the lake in the distance. On a clear day, you may even catch a glimpse of Mount Washington. If youâd rather look upward than outward, stroll the nature preserve trails for prime bird-watching.
Within a short distance from Lake Winnipesaukee, you can visit Squam Lake, Ossipee Lake, and Lake Wentworth, among others. Further out, Lake Sunapee is always worth a visit, whether for winter snowshoeing or year-round sightseeing. If you have a few days, take your pick of lakesâor just go for a scenic drive. Itâs as easy to stop for a swim as it is to roll down your windows.
Lake Winnipesaukee is made for the summer, when water-based activities peak. However, the shoulder months are equally suited to camping, especially if you want fewer crowds and less heat. Think: scenic drives when the leaves change or temperate April hikes. In the winter, many lake campsites shutter, so youâll have fewer options for Lake Winnipesaukee camping. However, the activities never stall. You can ice fish, cross-country ski, and ice skate throughout the cold season.