Old Stage Campground

Old Stage Campground, located in Madbury, New Hampshire, is a well-established and highly regarded destination within the "Campgrounds & RV Parks" category. It offers a comprehensive camping experience, designed to cater to a wide range of preferences, from traditional tent camping to full-service RV stays and even cabin rentals. Its strategic location in the Seacoast Region of New Hampshire, combined with its extensive list of amenities and family-friendly atmosphere, positions it as a popular choice for both short getaways and extended seasonal stays.

The environment of Old Stage Campground strikes a balance between a natural, forested setting and convenient access to the vibrant New Hampshire Seacoast. The campground itself is set amidst trees, offering a mix of shady and sunny sites, creating a pleasant and comfortable atmosphere. While not directly on the coast, it is ideally situated just 10 miles from the Atlantic Ocean, allowing campers to easily access the beautiful beaches and coastal attractions without being in the midst of the more crowded coastal areas.

The campground property itself is primarily wooded, with sites laid out to provide a sense of space and privacy, though some areas may have a higher density of seasonal campers. The roads within the campground are typically gravel or dirt. The overall impression is one of a well-maintained park that feels somewhat secluded despite its proximity to major attractions and routes like Interstate 95. Campers can enjoy the sounds of nature, with opportunities for quiet walks within the campground's wooded sections. The presence of a small river, like the Bellamy River, adds to the natural appeal, with opportunities for fishing (a license is needed for the Bellamy River).

The broader environment of the Seacoast Region provides diverse attractions. To the east, the Atlantic Ocean offers beaches, boat cruises, and whale watching. To the west, the rural charm of Madbury and surrounding towns provides a quieter, more pastoral setting. The city of Portsmouth, with its historic waterfront, shops, and restaurants, is a short drive away, offering cultural and culinary experiences. This blend of natural tranquility within the campground and easy access to both coastal and urban attractions is a significant aspect of its environmental appeal.

Old Stage Campground distinguishes itself within the "Campgrounds & RV Parks" category by offering a robust array of services and features, designed to provide comfort and entertainment for all ages. It caters to a diverse clientele, from transient campers to long-term seasonal residents.

• Diverse Site Options: The campground boasts a total of 177 campsites, accommodating everything from small tents to the largest RVs.
  • RV Sites: Many RV sites offer full hookups, including 30 and 50-amp electric, water, sewer, and even cable TV hookups. These sites are spacious, often with gravel pads, and can accommodate big rigs (up to 45 feet in length, with pull-through and back-in options available).
  • Pop-up Sites: Dedicated sites for pop-up campers typically include water and electric hookups.
  • Tent Sites: Designed for traditional tent camping, these sites also come with a campfire ring and picnic table.
  • Seasonal Sites: A significant portion of the campground (up to 100 sites) is dedicated to seasonal campers, allowing individuals and families to establish a long-term presence. These sites often include water, sewer, and cable for a flat seasonal rate, with electricity metered separately.
• Log Cabin Rentals: For those seeking more comfort, furnished log cabins are available for rent. These typically include a microwave oven, refrigerator, stovetop, toaster oven, dinette table with chairs, utensils, cookware, and a full bathroom with shower. Outside, a picnic table and fire ring are provided. (Note: Bedding and linens are not included, and pets/tobacco are prohibited in cabins.)

• Restrooms & Showers: The campground provides hot showers and clean restroom facilities. While some older reviews mention cleanliness issues or a cost for hot water, more recent information suggests well-maintained facilities.
• Laundromat: An on-site laundromat offers convenience for longer stays.
• Camp Store: A well-stocked camp store sells essentials like ice, firewood (local firewood only, due to pest restrictions), groceries, and RV camp supplies.
• Sanitary Dump Station: Available for RVs.
• Propane Sales: LP gas is available for purchase.
• Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi access is offered, though connectivity speed can vary.
• Pet-Friendly Policy: The campground welcomes leashed pets (dogs and cats) on campsites, though aggressive dogs are not permitted, and pets are generally not allowed in buildings, the pool, or with day visitors. Rabies vaccination paperwork may be required.
• Group Facilities: Old Stage Campground accommodates camping groups, offering a large, open grassy "safari field" capable of holding up to 15 units, all with water and 50-amp electric hookups. Group discounts are available for 8 or more camping units.

Old Stage Campground goes beyond basic amenities to offer a variety of recreational and social features that enhance the camping experience, particularly for families and those seeking an active vacation:

• Swimming Pool: A large swimming pool is a central attraction, providing a refreshing escape on warm summer days. Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult.
• Recreation Fields & Courts: The campground features dedicated areas for various sports, including basketball, volleyball, shuffleboard, horseshoes, bocce, and cornhole.
• Game Room & Playground: A game room with ping pong and other activities, along with a children's playground, caters to younger campers and provides indoor entertainment options.
• Planned Activities & Theme Nights: Old Stage Campground has a robust schedule of planned activities, especially during peak season (late June through Labor Day). These often include:
  • Hayrides
  • Arts & Crafts for kids
  • Bingo (including children's bingo and adult high-stakes bingo)
  • Washer Tosser
  • Cornhole tournaments
  • Street Hockey
  • Special events like DJ Dances, Flea/Craft Markets, S'mores Socials, Christmas in July (with site decorating and ugly sweater contests), Halloween/Trick or Treat, Trivia Nights, Paint Nights, and Double Feature Movies.
• Fishing Pond: The campground offers catch-and-release fishing in its ponds, with no license needed for these specific ponds.
• Friendly Atmosphere & Hospitality: Many reviews praise the owners and staff for their kindness, helpfulness, and efforts to create a welcoming, family-oriented, and safe environment.
• Proximity to Attractions: Being just 10 miles from the Atlantic Ocean means easy day trips to beaches (like Hampton Beach), cruises, and whale watches. The historic city of Portsmouth is also nearby, offering cultural sites, shopping, and dining. Other nearby attractions include Prescott Park, The Links at Outlook golf course, and potentially NASCAR tracks like Lee USA Speedway (about 10 miles away).

Promotional information for Old Stage Campground centers on its combination of family-friendly amenities, diverse camping options, and prime location for exploring the New Hampshire Seacoast. Key messages often include:

• "Your Perfect Combination of Camping Fun and Touring Convenience": Highlighting the blend of on-site activities and nearby attractions.
• "Spacious Campsites Accommodate Everything from the Smallest Tent to the Largest RV": Emphasizing versatility for all camping styles.
• "Make This the Most Memorable and Enjoyable Camping Experience of Your Life!": A direct appeal to creating lasting memories.
• "Full Hook-Up Sites, Log Cabin Rentals, and Seasonal Options Available": Detailing the range of comfort levels offered.
• "Dive into Fun at Our Swimming Pool and Enjoy Daily Activities!": Promoting the recreational offerings and entertainment.
• "Just 10 Miles to the Atlantic Ocean's Beautiful Beaches": Highlighting the prime coastal access.
• "Pet-Friendly Camping for Your Furry Family Members": Appealing to travelers with pets.
• "Check Our Rates & Reservations Online!": Encouraging direct engagement for booking.
• "Bookings Now Open!" and "Buy 3 nights Get 1 Free": Specific promotional deals for various booking periods or loyalty programs.
• "First Responders Appreciation Discount" and "Military Appreciation Discount": Highlighting special offers for service members.

The official website, oldstagecampground.com, serves as the primary source for rates, reservations, a detailed activities schedule, and campground rules. Listings on platforms like Good Sam, The Dyrt, and NH Loves Campers also provide information, reviews, and amenities lists. Promotional materials typically feature inviting photos of families enjoying the pool, kids on hayrides, spacious campsites, and images of the surrounding Seacoast beauty. Reviews frequently mention the welcoming nature of the owners and the sense of community among campers, especially the seasonal residents. While some older reviews may note minor issues like road conditions or cleanliness of older facilities, the overall impression is of a dedicated establishment striving to provide a fun, safe, and engaging environment for its guests, solidifying its place as a reliable choice within the "Campgrounds & RV Parks" category in New Hampshire.