How do I access the campsites?

Moon and Bowman Islands are accessible by boat, while Chamberlain Reynolds Memorial Forest sites can be reached by hiking trails.

Are campfires allowed?

Yes, each site includes a fire ring and provides one bundle of firewood per night.

Pets are allowed on Bowman and Wister campsites but must be kept under control.

Is camping gear included with the rental?

No, you must bring your own tent and camping equipment, though some sites have tent platforms.

Are there restroom facilities?

Composting toilets are available near the campsites for convenience and environmental protection.

Can I rent a canoe or kayak on-site?

Yes, SLA offers canoe and kayak rentals but they're subject to availability and reservation is recommended.

Campsite Rentals at Squam Lakes Association in Holderness, NH

Holderness, New Hampshire, serves as the gateway to a trio of immersive wilderness retreats operated by the Squam Lakes Association (SLA). Their Six Night Campsite Rental offers outdoor enthusiasts a rare chance to unwind amid pristine natural settings on Moon Island, Bowman Island, and the Chamberlain Reynolds Memorial Forest. These campsites, reachable by serene boat rides or invigorating hikes, provide a quiet escape from everyday life with the added convenience of carefully maintained facilities.

Moon Island and Bowman Island lie within the protected waters of Squam Lake, a shimmering expanse renowned for clear waters and wooded shorelines. The islands’ forested campsites include fire rings and composting toilets, while select areas offer tent platforms that elevate your camp setup above the forest floor. Nearby docks can accommodate kayaks and canoes, available for rent through SLA, allowing visitors to paddle through calm bays and inlets, encounter loons gliding silently across the water, or simply soak in the slow rhythm of lake life.

For hikers, the Chamberlain Reynolds Memorial Forest, also known as Wister campsites, provides a refreshing alternative access via trails that weave through mixed hardwoods and pines. This forested setting introduces a more terrestrial wilderness experience with ample birdwatching opportunities and the chance to spot native wildlife like white-tailed deer.

SLA’s stewardship ensures these sites remain sustainable and accessible, balancing recreation with conservation. Wood bundles are provided nightly, fostering traditional campfires while minimizing environmental impact. Pet-friendly policies apply at Bowman and Wister, making the adventure inclusive for canine companions.

Whether arriving by boat or on foot, SLA’s campsites invite a slower outdoor experience defined by connection—to nature, to history, and to the timeless pulse of New Hampshire’s lake country. It’s a destination where preparation meets calm, and spontaneous moments become enduring memories.