Paugus Bay Campground

camping laconia nh

For New Hampshire locals seeking the quintessential lakeside camping experience, look no further than Paugus Bay Campground in Laconia. Nestled on the beautiful shores of Paugus Bay, an arm of the expansive Lake Winnipesaukee, this family-owned and operated campground has been a beloved destination since 1980. It offers a unique blend of serene natural beauty, convenient amenities, and a welcoming atmosphere that makes every visitor feel right at home. Whether you're a seasoned RVer, a tent-camping enthusiast, or looking for a seasonal retreat, Paugus Bay Campground promises a memorable and enjoyable escape just a short distance from the lively attractions of Weirs Beach.

Paugus Bay Campground is renowned for its tranquil environment, despite its proximity to the bustling Weirs Beach area. It successfully caters to a diverse range of campers, primarily seasonal trailer and fifth-wheel residents, yet it also provides an excellent selection of spacious, terraced sites perfect for "passers-through" in smaller RVs and tents. These sites are thoughtfully designed, often situated under a leafy canopy, offering increasingly open views of Lake Winnipesaukee's Paugus Bay as you move down towards the shoreline. The atmosphere is consistently described as peaceful and private, not a "rowdy campground," which is a significant draw for families and those seeking a relaxed getaway. This commitment to a calm and friendly environment, coupled with the natural beauty of its lakeside setting, truly sets Paugus Bay Campground apart as a premier camping destination in the Lakes Region. The dedication of the family owners, who have nurtured this campground for over four decades, shines through in the well-maintained facilities and the genuine warmth extended to every guest.

Paugus Bay Campground is ideally situated at 96 Hilliard Rd site #92, Laconia, NH 03246, USA. Its prime location in the heart of the Lakes Region offers exceptional accessibility for New Hampshire residents. Laconia is a central hub, making it a relatively easy drive from various parts of the state, whether you're coming from the Seacoast, the White Mountains, or the Southern Tier.

One of the most significant advantages of this campground's location is its close proximity to Weirs Beach. Visitors rave about how "easy and convenient it was to walk or ride our bikes into Weirs Beach for dining and drinks," and even a bit further to attractions like go-karts. This means you can enjoy the peace of the campground while still having immediate access to a wide array of entertainment, dining, and recreational opportunities that Weirs Beach is famous for. The short path leading directly to the main boardwalk truly enhances the overall experience. This perfect balance of serene lakeside camping and lively local attractions makes Paugus Bay Campground an exceptionally convenient and appealing choice for New Hampshire locals.

Paugus Bay Campground is well-equipped with a comprehensive array of services designed to ensure a comfortable and convenient stay for all campers.

• Campsites with Hookups: The campground offers 170 sites, with water and electric hookups available on all sites. Specific full hookup sites (water, electric, and sewer) are also available, particularly sites 65, 85, and 87, catering to a range of RV and trailer needs. These sites can accommodate RVs up to 45 feet in length.

• Clean Restrooms and Free Hot Showers: Campers consistently praise the cleanliness and excellent working order of the bathrooms and showers. The availability of free, hot showers is a significant convenience that enhances the overall camping experience.

• On-Site Camp Store: A "great, reasonably priced camp store" is available, stocked with essential items such as ice, firewood, bait, grocery staples, and miscellaneous camping gear. This eliminates the need for frequent trips off-site, adding to the convenience for campers.

• Boat and Watercraft Rentals: Kayaks, paddleboats, and canoes are available for rent, providing easy access to Paugus Bay for water-based activities. Jet ski slips and boat docking are also offered at an additional daily fee.

• Laundry Facilities: On-site laundry facilities are provided, a valuable amenity for longer stays or for refreshing clothes after outdoor activities.

• Dump Station and Honey Wagon Service: For RV and trailer campers, a convenient dump station is available. Additionally, the campground offers a "honey wagon" service for tank dumping, adding an extra layer of convenience for those who prefer not to move their rigs.

• Pet-Friendly: Well-behaved dogs are welcome at the campground, with a limit of two per campsite, ensuring that furry family members can also enjoy the camping experience.

• Wi-Fi Access: Wi-Fi is available near the office area, allowing campers to stay connected if needed.

Paugus Bay Campground boasts a variety of features and highlights that contribute to its popularity and make it a standout choice for campers in New Hampshire.

• Lake Winnipesaukee Access: Its direct access to Paugus Bay, part of the magnificent Lake Winnipesaukee, is a major draw. The campground features a clean, private beach area where the water is noted to be "a bit warmer than the main lake beach," which is a pleasant surprise for swimmers.

• Terraced Sites with Views: The unique terraced layout of the campground allows for increasingly open views of Paugus Bay as you move closer to the shoreline, offering picturesque vistas for many campers.

• Peaceful and Private Atmosphere: Despite its convenient location, the campground maintains a remarkably peaceful and private atmosphere, appreciated by those seeking a quiet retreat. It is specifically noted as "not a rowdy campground."

• Family-Owned and Operated Excellence: Having been run by the same family since 1980, the campground benefits from decades of dedicated care and hospitality. Visitors consistently praise the owners (like George and Laurie) and staff for being "super helpful and a delight to talk to," creating a truly welcoming environment.

• Proximity to Weirs Beach: The ability to easily walk or bike a short path directly into Weirs Beach for dining, entertainment, and attractions is an unparalleled convenience, offering the best of both worlds – lakeside tranquility and vibrant activity.

• Variety of Sites: While primarily catering to seasonal campers, the campground provides a "good selection of sites for passers-through like us in small RVs and tents," ensuring options for diverse camping styles.

• Activities: The campground offers activities like shuffleboard, basketball, and a playground, along with opportunities for fishing, hiking (with mountains a short drive away), and various water sports.

Currently, specific promotional offers for transient sites at Paugus Bay Campground are not extensively advertised beyond their general rates. The provided information and external sources indicate that their booking process does not involve online reservations or electronic credit card payments at this time. Payments must be made by cash, check, or money order upon arrival or when sending a deposit by mail for advance bookings.

However, it's worth noting that Paugus Bay Campground is known for its strong community of seasonal campers. The campground does offer seasonal campsites for sale, which typically involves purchasing an existing trailer or pitched roof from a current seasonal member. This presents a unique "offer" for those looking to establish a long-term presence on Paugus Bay. Information regarding these seasonal site sales, including trailers currently for sale, is available directly through the campground's website or by contacting them.

For daily or short-term stays, it's always advisable for New Hampshire locals to contact the campground directly by phone to inquire about current availability, rates, and any potential last-minute deals that might arise, especially during non-peak times. While they don't use online booking systems, their direct communication ensures you get the most accurate and up-to-date information.

For inquiries, reservations, and any information regarding your stay at Paugus Bay Campground, please use the following contact details:

• Address: 96 Hilliard Rd site #92, Laconia, NH 03246, USA

• Phone: (603) 366-4757

• Mobile Phone: +1 603-366-4757

• Email: pbcampground@gmail.com

• Operating Season: Generally May 15th to October 15th (Open 9 am - 5 pm, 7 days a week during the season).

Please note that Paugus Bay Campground does not use an online reservation system. To check availability or book a site, it is best to call them directly or fill out the contact form on their website. It's also important to remember that they are often fully booked during popular periods like Bike Week. Reaching out directly ensures you get the most accurate information and can confirm your ideal camping dates.

Paugus Bay Campground is an exceptionally suitable destination for New Hampshire locals, offering a blend of convenience, charm, and recreational opportunities that resonate deeply with the state's residents. Its prime location in Laconia means it's a manageable drive from most parts of New Hampshire, making it perfect for weekend getaways or longer summer vacations without extensive travel.

For New Hampshirites, the allure of Lake Winnipesaukee is undeniable, and Paugus Bay Campground provides direct, tranquil access to this iconic body of water. The private beach, noted for its warmer water, is a distinct advantage, and the availability of boat rentals means you don't even need your own watercraft to enjoy the bay. The unique terraced sites offer lovely views, making your mornings and evenings particularly serene.

Furthermore, the ability to walk or bike to Weirs Beach effortlessly bridges the gap between peaceful lakeside relaxation and lively entertainment. This means families can enjoy the quiet of their campsite, then easily venture out for boardwalk fun, dining, or attractions, creating a perfectly balanced vacation. The strong emphasis on a peaceful, family-friendly atmosphere, coupled with the consistently clean facilities and the genuinely helpful nature of the family owners, reflects the welcoming spirit New Hampshire locals often seek in their recreational pursuits. Paugus Bay Campground offers a true slice of the Lakes Region lifestyle, making it a perfect spot for locals to unwind, reconnect with nature, and create cherished memories close to home.

Paugus Bay Campground

96 Hilliard Rd site #92, Laconia, NH 03246, USA