Ellacoya State Park New Hampshire
Relax on a sandy beach with stunning Lake Winnipesaukee views. Features RV camping, a playground, and picnic areas for a perfect family day out.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm waters & fewer crowds
Ellacoya State Park New Hampshire
Best Time
Calm waters & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Relax on a sandy beach with stunning Lake Winnipesaukee views. Features RV camping, a playground, and picnic areas for a perfect family day out.
"The views of Lake Winnipesaukee are absolutely stunning. Plenty of space to enjoy, not overly crowded, and the whole vibe is very peaceful."
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking fills up fast, especially on weekends. Get there early to secure a spot near the beach!
🏕️ Book Camping Spots Ahead
RV sites are popular and book up quickly. Reserve your spot well in advance to avoid disappointment.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lake Winnipesaukee Beach
Beachfront
Enjoy a relaxing day on the sandy shores with stunning views of Lake Winnipesaukee. Perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
RV Campground
Campground
Spacious, level sites with full hookups offer a comfortable stay with beautiful lake views.
Playground Fun
Near the beach
A family-friendly playground provides entertainment for younger visitors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beach Day Essentials
Camping Reservations
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking fills up fast, especially on weekends. Get there early to secure a spot near the beach!
🏕️ Book Camping Spots Ahead
RV sites are popular and book up quickly. Reserve your spot well in advance to avoid disappointment.
🏖️ Beach Store Convenience
A beach store offers essentials for a day by the water, but packing your own snacks is a good idea.
🏞️ Enjoy Lake Views
Sites closest to the lake offer breathtaking views of Lake Winnipesaukee.
Touristy things to do near Gilford…
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking fills up fast, especially on weekends. Get there early to secure a spot near the beach!
🏕️ Book Camping Spots Ahead
RV sites are popular and book up quickly. Reserve your spot well in advance to avoid disappointment.
🏖️ Beach Store Convenience
A beach store offers essentials for a day by the water, but packing your own snacks is a good idea.
🏞️ Enjoy Lake Views
Sites closest to the lake offer breathtaking views of Lake Winnipesaukee.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Ellacoya State Park is praised for its stunning Lake Winnipesaukee views, clean beach, and family-friendly atmosphere, making it a relaxing getaway. While the RV campground is popular and well-equipped, some visitors note that the restroom facilities could benefit from updates. Overall, it's a highly recommended spot for beach lovers and campers.
"As a longtime user and guest of NH State Parks throughout the state, Ellacoya enjoys an amazing location, with decent sized sites, and a bathroom and bathhouse that leaves much to be desired. 🤢🤮 Was honestly surprised by the total lack of care during out stay, which is far outside the norm, for all CGs we visit. 😢"
Franconia NotchVacations
"Ellacoya State Park is clean, calm, and perfect for families or anyone looking to relax. The water was clear and refreshing, and the views of Lake Winnipesaukee are absolutely stunning. Plenty of space to enjoy, not overly crowded, and the whole vibe is very peaceful.
Parking was convenient, and everything felt well-maintained. A lovely spot for a quiet walk along the shore or just dipping your feet in and soaking up nature"
purvi patel
"Excellent place to use as a base as you can in your RV. Right on the shore with a beautiful beach and a wonderful view of lake winnipensaukee"
Mike Longenbaker
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ellacoya State Park is located in Gilford, New Hampshire, on the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee. It's easily accessible by car via Route 11. GPS coordinates can help guide you directly to the park entrance.
Public transportation options directly to Ellacoya State Park are limited. It is best accessed by private vehicle. Consider ride-sharing services if you are coming from a nearby town.
From the south, take I-93 North to Exit 20 for NH-3A toward Meredith. Continue on NH-3A and then take NH-11 East towards Gilford. Ellacoya State Park will be on your right.
Yes, parking is available at Ellacoya State Park. However, it can fill up quickly, especially during peak season and on weekends. Arriving early is highly recommended.
Absolutely! Using a GPS or navigation app with 'Ellacoya State Park, Gilford, NH' will provide accurate directions to the park entrance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is typically an entrance fee for day-use visitors to Ellacoya State Park. Fees can vary by season and vehicle type. Check the official New Hampshire State Parks website for current pricing.
Operating hours for Ellacoya State Park can vary seasonally. The beach and day-use areas are generally open from morning until dusk. The campground has specific check-in and check-out times.
Yes, advance reservations for campsites at Ellacoya State Park are highly recommended, especially for RV sites. They tend to book up quickly.
Camping fees at Ellacoya State Park vary depending on the type of site (e.g., RV with full hookups) and the time of year. Visit the NH State Parks website for the most up-to-date camping rates.
New Hampshire State Parks may offer annual passes that provide access to multiple parks. Inquire with the park staff or check the NH State Parks website for details on pass options.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Ellacoya State Park offers a sandy beach for swimming and relaxing, a playground for children, and an RV campground. It's ideal for picnicking and enjoying the views of Lake Winnipesaukee.
Yes, Ellacoya State Park is very family-friendly. It features a playground, calm waters for swimming, and plenty of space to relax, making it a great spot for a family outing.
Restroom and bathhouse facilities are available. While some reviews mention they could be improved, they are generally functional for park visitors.
Yes, swimming is a popular activity at the sandy beach of Ellacoya State Park. The water is described as clear and refreshing.
Yes, Ellacoya State Park has areas suitable for picnicking, allowing visitors to enjoy meals amidst the scenic surroundings.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Ellacoya State Park does not have on-site restaurants. However, there is a beach store that offers some snacks and essentials for a day at the park.
You'll find a variety of dining options in nearby Gilford and Laconia, including casual eateries, pizza places, and family restaurants. Supermarkets are also a short drive away for picnic supplies.
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks for picnics and to enjoy at the beach or picnic areas.
Yes, there is a beach store at Ellacoya State Park that sells snacks, drinks, and other beach day necessities.
Information regarding public BBQ grills is not widely available. It's best to check with park management or bring your own portable grill if permitted.
📸 📸 Photography
The beach with views of Lake Winnipesaukee is a prime photo spot. The campground, especially sites near the water, also offers scenic backdrops. Capture the sunset over the lake for stunning shots.
Absolutely. The expansive views of Lake Winnipesaukee, the shoreline, and the surrounding natural beauty make it a great location for landscape photography, particularly during sunrise and sunset.
Drone usage regulations can vary by state park. It's essential to check the official New Hampshire State Parks guidelines regarding drone operation before flying.
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer the most beautiful light for photography, casting a warm glow over the lake and landscape.
While not a specific landmark, the panoramic views of Lake Winnipesaukee and the sandy beach itself are the most iconic photographic elements of Ellacoya State Park.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing plenty of snacks and drinks, as while there's a beach store, having your own supplies ensures a hassle-free day. Arriving earlier in the day can help you snag a convenient parking spot and a good spot on the beach before it gets too crowded.
🏕️ RV Campers
Be aware that this campground is highly sought after and books up very quickly. It's essential to make reservations as far in advance as possible, especially if you're aiming for a lakefront spot. While the camping facilities are good, some reviews suggest the restrooms could be updated.
🧘♀️ Relaxation Seekers
Visiting on a weekday can offer an even more tranquil experience, with fewer crowds. The park's well-maintained grounds and gentle shoreline make it an ideal spot to de-stress and reconnect with nature.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Beach and Lake
While the beach is a primary attraction, remember that it can get busy, especially on weekends and during peak season. Arriving early is key to securing a good spot and enjoying the tranquility before the crowds arrive. The park also offers a beach store for convenience, but packing your own beach essentials is always a good idea.
RV Camping Experience
It's crucial to note that this campground is extremely popular and tends to book up well in advance, sometimes months ahead, especially for the prime spots. Reviews suggest that while the sites are good, the restroom and bathhouse facilities might leave something to be desired for some visitors, though they are generally functional. Planning your reservation early is essential if you wish to camp here.
Family-Friendly Amenities
The overall atmosphere of the park is described as clean, calm, and peaceful, which contributes to a positive family experience. The combination of the beach, playground, and scenic lake views makes Ellacoya a well-rounded destination for visitors of all ages looking for a relaxing outdoor escape.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit