Ellacoya State Park
00 reviewRoute 11, Gilford, New Hampshire, 03246, United States
Ellacoya State Park
$30.00 - $35.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$30.00
Hookup Site Fee$30.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Maximum of two vehicles per campsite. NH State Employees receive a 50% discount upon verification.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine shores of Lake Winnipesaukee, Ellacoya State Park beckons RV enthusiasts with its crown jewel: a breathtaking 600-foot stretch of sandy beach that rivals any coastal destination. This waterfront paradise seamlessly blends modern convenience with natural beauty, offering full RV hookups alongside meticulously maintained facilities and spotless bathrooms. Whether you're launching your kayak at dawn's first light or diving into crystal-clear waters under the afternoon sun, every moment here feels like a postcard come to life. Shaded picnic areas dot the landscape, providing perfect spots to savor lunch while watching sailboats dance across New Hampshire's largest lake.
Ellacoya State Park is exclusively for RV camping, with full hook-up capabilities. Tents are not allowed and all RVs must connect to water, sewer, and electric services.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of New England's seasonal magic at Ellacoya, where each season paints the landscape in dramatically different hues. Winter arrives with crisp, dry air and temperatures dipping to a brisk 28°F, transforming the lake into a serene, frost-kissed wonderland. Spring awakens the park with gentle warmth and budding greenery, offering ideal conditions for early-season camping. But it's summer that truly steals the show, with gloriously warm days reaching 81°F – perfect for endless hours of swimming, sunbathing, and lakeside adventures. The reliable weather patterns make planning your getaway a breeze, whether you're seeking summer water sports or peaceful off-season solitude.
Natural Features and SceneryPrepare to have your breath taken away by the spectacular natural amphitheater that surrounds Ellacoya State Park. Lake Winnipesaukee stretches before you like a vast sapphire mirror, its waters reflecting the ever-changing moods of New Hampshire skies. To the north, the majestic Sandwich and Ossipee mountain ranges rise like ancient sentinels, their peaks creating a dramatic backdrop that transforms from misty morning silhouettes to golden sunset canvases. The interplay between water and mountains creates endless photo opportunities and moments of pure tranquility. Early risers are rewarded with mirror-calm waters perfect for paddling, while evening brings spectacular light shows as the setting sun paints the mountains in shades of purple and rose.
Geological RegionPositioned in New Hampshire's captivating Central Region, Ellacoya State Park claims one of the most coveted spots along Lake Winnipesaukee's southwest shore. This geological treasure sits at the intersection of ancient mountain ranges and glacial waters, where millions of years of natural forces have sculpted a landscape of extraordinary beauty. The park's sandy beach – a rarity in this granite-dominated region – offers a gentle gateway to the lake's refreshing depths. From this prime vantage point, the Sandwich and Ossipee mountain ranges unfold in panoramic splendor, their weathered peaks telling the story of New Hampshire's dramatic geological past. This unique positioning creates a microclimate that moderates temperatures and provides shelter from prevailing winds, making it an ideal basecamp for exploring the greater Lakes Region.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe park includes an accessible bathhouse and changing area near the swimming beach.
Sites SizeSites are described as adequately sized but with neighbors visible on either side.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is limited; reviewers noted no real separators between sites, and some described the lots as lacking shade.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesRV sites are pull-in with fully serviced hookups (30 amp). Sites are level but lack privacy and shade.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 8 AM (9 AM on weekends).
Check-out
Check-out by 12 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay duration is 14 consecutive days during Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 6 guests per site.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutRV sites are pull-in with full hookups; day-use area separate from campground.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen Memorial Day weekend to Columbus Day; reservations close post-Columbus Day.
Reservation PlatformsReserve America, NH Parks Reservation office.
Walk-in AvailabilityReservations required; no walk-up availability mentioned explicitly.
Cancellation PolicyFull refund minus transaction fee if canceled 10+ days prior to arrival. Partial refund (minus reservation fee and one night's camping fee) for cancellations made 4-9 days prior. No refund for cancellations within 0-3 days of arrival.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Camp Store
Laundry Facilities
Activities you can enjoy
Ellacoya State Park offers a variety of outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy swimming, picnicking, playing on the playground, and launching small boats. Hiking and biking trails are also accessible, along with opportunities for fishing and wildlife observation.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available in and around the park, described as well-maintained by reviewers.Fishing
Fishing is permitted but limited in access. One reviewer noted that 'you have to be a registered camper at the RV park to fish at Poor Farm Brook.'Swimming
The beach offers a designated swimming area that is well-maintained and includes lifeguards. The sandy beach has been described as 'great for families' and 'never too crowded,' even on long weekends.Biking
Mountain biking trails are accessible within a greater-than-one-mile radius from the park.Boating
The park provides a boat launch for small boats, such as kayaks and car-top boats.Wildlife viewing
Opportunities for wildlife observation are available, particularly near serene spots like Poor Farm Brook.Beach activities
The beach is a highlight, with activities such as sunbathing and beachcombing. It is described as clean and great for relaxing.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking and canoeing are popular.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- No fire rings or campfires allowed.
Hazards
General hazardsBeach advisories may occur due to water quality issues. Seasonal closures of bathrooms after Columbus Day.
Active alertsBeach advisories occur unpredictably during summer months; closures of park facilities noted.
Weather forecast
75
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 38%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 8.9 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Greater than 1 mile: Emergency services (police/fire/ambulance), medical clinic.
Good to know
Peak season datesMemorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend.
Trash and recyclingNo specific information provided about trash and recycling facilities.
Proximity to water features600-foot sandy beach on Lake Winnipesaukee. Canoe and kayak launch available.
Common complaintsComplaints include lack of tent camping facilities, mandatory hookups, and dilapidated bathhouses.
Campground Map
Route 11, Gilford, New Hampshire, 03246, United States
Driving directionsFrom I-93: Take Exit 20, follow Route 3 east, to Route 11 east, follow signs to Ellacoya State Park From I-95: Take Route 16 west to Route 11 west, follow signs to Ellacoya State Park
Accessible via paved roads. From major highways (I-93 and I-95), follow Routes 3 and 11. Seasonal road conditions not noted.Nearby places
Gilford: 0 miles
Laconia: Approximately 8 miles (~15 minutes drive)
Nearby supplies
Greater than 1 mile: ATM, vehicle maintenance. Within 10 miles: Fuel, hospital, restaurants.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Ellacoya State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are mixed, with positive mentions of the beautiful lake views, clean beach, and family-friendly atmosphere, but criticisms about the condition of facilities and strict rules for campers.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
"Beautiful place to take the family," "Clean bathrooms," "Great view," "Well-maintained beach and picnic areas," "Relaxing location."
Common Concerns
Deteriorating shower facilities, no fire rings, no pets allowed, limited cell service, mandatory RV full hook-ups, and no tent camping allowed.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Make reservations in advance, arrive early to use grills and shaded areas, and ensure your RV is fully equipped to hook up to water, sewer, and electric services.
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews highlight the clean beach and family-friendly atmosphere, while fall reviews appreciate the stunning foliage. Winter reviews are not available, as the campground closes after Columbus...
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Camper Quotes
"Ellacoya State Park is located on Route 11 in Gilford, NH, and like most NH State Park beaches it is well-maintained and clean." - Jim O'Donnell; "There should be a negative button here. We booked 6...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Specific reviews highlight that some RV sites are pull-in, which is unusual. Sites lack shade and privacy.
Accessibility Features
Accessibility is praised for the bathhouse and changing areas near the beach.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are not allowed, and users have acknowledged strict enforcement of this rule.
Last updated August 10, 2025