Camping at Youth Group

Location and Description

Wellington State Park is located on the shores of beautiful Newfound Lake in Bristol, New Hampshire. It's known for its large freshwater swimming beach, picnic areas, and trails. The park is a popular destination for youth groups, families, and outdoor enthusiasts.

Youth Group Camping

Facilities: Youth Group camping is typically available in designated areas within the park. These areas are often separate from the family camping spots to allow for privacy and group activities. Facilities might include:

• Group campsites with space for tents
• Fire rings or pits for bonfires
• Picnic tables or pavilion areas
• Nearby restroom facilities, potentially with showers

Reservations:

• Advance reservations are usually required for youth group camping, especially during peak season.
• There may be restrictions on group size to maintain the quality of the experience and to follow park guidelines.

Fees:

• There will be fees for youth group camping, which may depend on the size of the group and the duration of the stay.
• Discounts may be available for nonprofit youth groups, so it’s worth inquiring when you make the reservation.

Supervision:

• Adequate adult supervision is typically required for youth groups. Parks often have specific adult-to-youth ratios to ensure safety.

Activities

Swimming:

• As the park features the largest freshwater swimming beach in the New Hampshire State Park system, youth groups can enjoy swimming and beach activities.

Hiking:

• Wellington State Park offers several hiking trails suitable for all levels, including trails that offer views of Newfound Lake and surrounding mountains.

Boating:

• Canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding are common on Newfound Lake. There may be rentals available or you may need to bring your own equipment.

Fishing:

• Newfound Lake is known for its fishing. A fishing license may be required for those 16 years and older.

Educational Programs:

• Parks often offer educational programs about the local ecosystem, conservation efforts, and outdoor skills.

Rules and Regulations

Environmental Stewardship:

• Respect the natural environment by practicing Leave No Trace principles. This includes carrying out all trash, minimizing impact on the surroundings, and observing wildlife from a safe distance.

Quiet Hours:

• Most parks enforce quiet hours during the night to ensure all guests can enjoy a peaceful stay.

Alcohol and Smoking Policies:

• Many state parks have strict no-alcohol policies, especially in youth group areas. Smoking may also be restricted or limited to designated areas.

Pet Policies:

• Pets might be allowed in certain areas but often are not permitted on beaches or in designated swimming areas.

Safety:

• Always follow park safety guidelines, such as not feeding or approaching wildlife, and being cautious when engaging in water activities.

Fire Safety:

• Comply with any fire regulations in place, which may include restrictions on open fires during drought conditions or using only designated fire areas.

Preparation and Planning

Equipment:

• Ensure you have the necessary camping and recreational equipment, including tents, cooking gear, and appropriate clothing.

Food and Water:

• Plan and bring sufficient food and water supplies, or know the locations where they can be purchased nearby.

Transportation:

• Determine how your group will get to Wellington State Park and organize logistics for parking and park entrance.

Emergency Preparedness:

• Have a first-aid kit and be aware of the nearest medical facilities.

Check Weather:

• Monitor weather forecasts and prepare accordingly.

Contact Information:

• It’s a good idea to have the park's contact information on hand in case of emergencies or changes to park operations.

Before planning your youth group camping trip, it’s essential to check the most current information provided by Wellington State Park or the New Hampshire Division of Parks and Recreation to ensure that your information is accurate and up-to-date.