Newfound Lake in Bristol NH with a kayaker

Planning Your Summer Trip to Bristol, NH

December 8, 2023 7:38 am

The long, warm days of summer may seem far away, but this time of year is a great time to start planning your Bristol summer vacation. Lake house rentals and other places to stay fill fast, so if you’re looking to spend a weekend or a full week here, we’ve got some tips to help you make planning go perfectly.

Finding a Lake House Rental

Planning a vacation can be a stressful task, especially when you have kids to entertain. And with the numerous options available, finding the perfect location can be a daunting task. A lake house vacation is undoubtedly a fantastic getaway option, but where do you start?

Here in Bristol, many property owners list their summer rentals through vacation rentals websites like Airbnb, HomeAway, and VRBO. These websites provide you with numerous options that feature photos, reviews, and prices. Narrow your search to a few properties that suit your budget, preferences, and travel dates.

If you prefer to rent from locals that offer a personal touch, head to Newfound Vacation Rentals. This agency has been renting vacation homes and long term rentals for 50 years. They know the area and have tons of tips only locals know to make your time in Bristol memorable.

Other Vacation Stay Options

If you’re looking for something different than a family lake house, try some of these other summer vacation stay options:

Timberloch Cottages

These well-kept and cozy cabins were built in the early 1900s and offer a unique vacation experience. The cabins were built with families in mind with various layouts that can accommodate six to eight people. 

Davidson’s Countryside Campground

For those that prefer a rustic lake stay, head to Davidson’s, which offers wooded and lakefront camping for both tents and RVs, as well as a few cabins. Spend your days swimming in Newfound Lake, at the pool or playing on the playground. On rainy days join in a planned activity, hit the game room or shop the camp store. 

Investigate Activities Before You Go

If you have younger children, a lake vacation has plenty of built-in fun. Spending days by the water and evenings grilling at the lake house, playing games or watching a movie. But if you have picky teens or are worried about rainy day boredom, you should investigate local activities.

Having a list of activities to do during your stay can make your vacation experience memorable for everyone. Bristol has many outdoor options, including paddleboarding, boating, hiking, and fishing. There’s also plenty of quirky shops to explore, ice cream stands, and dining options for the whole family. 

Give Yourself Time to Plan

Newfound Lake is one of the most popular tourism destinations in New Hampshire. The crystal clear lake, beauty and plenty of amenities make the area perfect for families with children and teens.

Booking a rental too close to your travel date may limit your options and drive up prices. Thus, if you want to make the most out of your vacation experience, it’s best to book early. Summer is the peak season for lake house vacation rentals, so start planning and booking six to nine months ahead. This way, you can get a good deal, and you have ample time to prepare for your vacation.

For more information about what to do in Bristol during your summer vacation, head to our Summer Activities page.