Rockywold-Deephaven Camps (RDC)

In the "Hotels Near Of Me" category, Rockywold-Deephaven Camps (RDC) presents a distinctive and cherished option, far removed from the typical hotel experience. Located at 18 Bacon Rd, Holderness, NH 03245, USA, RDC is not a modern resort, but rather a historic family summer camp that has been operating since the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It offers a truly unique, rustic, and intentionally "unplugged" retreat on the pristine shores of Squam Lake in New Hampshire's Lakes Region, at the southern edge of the White Mountains. This establishment is particularly appealing to those seeking a nostalgic, communal, and nature-centric vacation, valuing tradition over contemporary luxury.

RDC is nestled on over 100 acres of natural landscape in northern Holderness, near the northwest tip of Squam Lake, renowned as one of New England's most pristine lakes. The camp itself is comprised of two adjacent historic camps, Rockywold (established 1901) and Deephaven (established 1897), now operated as a single facility. The setting is characterized by simple, weathered wooden cottages and cabins scattered along approximately 8,000 feet of shoreline, many with private docks. Rocky footpaths wind through the woods, creating a sense of rustic charm and a strong connection to nature. The dark night skies offer spectacular stargazing opportunities. The natural beauty, including fragrant pines and the haunting calls of loons, is central to the RDC experience. While offering a peaceful respite, the location also provides access to the broader Squam Lakes Region and the White Mountains for various outdoor excursions.

Rockywold-Deephaven Camps is designed to take guests back to a simpler era, fostering family togetherness and outdoor engagement. The accommodations primarily consist of over 60 distinct residential cottages and cabins, ranging from two-person cabins to larger options, as well as two lodges. These units are rustic and intentionally lack modern amenities such as air conditioning, central heating, or in-cabin refrigerators. Instead, guests embrace the traditional approach: lighting fires in wood-burning fireplaces for warmth (wood and kindling are restocked daily by staff) and utilizing old-fashioned iceboxes, which are regularly replenished with chunks of lake ice harvested annually from Squam Lake. While some cabins have received bathroom and accessibility upgrades, the core experience remains true to its historic roots. Box fans are provided in bedrooms for comfort.

A key feature of RDC is its emphasis on communal living and a wide array of organized and self-directed activities, designed to encourage guests to disconnect from technology and engage with their surroundings. While there is strong internet access available at the central office, Wi-Fi and cell signal are intentionally weak or nonexistent elsewhere on the grounds, promoting a truly "analog" visit. Services and features include:

• Dining: RDC offers a unique communal dining experience in two dining halls, providing delicious home-style meals, often eliminating the need for guests to cook. This contributes to the "family camp" atmosphere, allowing for relaxation and socializing.
• Extensive Recreational Activities: The camp offers an impressive range of activities, often led by a dedicated Recreation Staff. These include:
  • Water Sports: Guests can enjoy swimming from floats, and rent a variety of boats from RDC's fleet, including canoes (plastic, aluminum, rowing), kayaks (recreational, touring, double, sit-on-top, pedal), stand-up paddleboards (SUPs), Sunfish sailboats, hydro-bikes, rowboats, and rowboats/canoes with 2-HP or 4-HP motors. Boats are delivered to private docks, and rentals include life jackets.
  • Land Sports: Facilities include eight Har-Tru tennis courts, pickleball courts, a ball field for games like family softball, and a basketball court. Organized games and tennis tournaments are common.
  • Guided Programs: The Recreation Staff organizes daily activities such as half-day hikes in the Squam Lakes Region, more strenuous full-day hikes in the White Mountains, nature walks, boat tours (including to Loon Island for picnics), and specialized events like Wacky Canoe Races, the Pinehurst Classic 5K Road Race, mini-triathlons, and scavenger hunts.
  • Children's Programs: There are morning toddler playgroups ("Wee Campers Program") and specific activities for teens, making it very family-friendly.
  • Indoor Facilities: A game room with ping-pong and pool tables, toddler playrooms, and a library/reading room are available. The rustic open-sided auditorium hosts yoga classes, square dances, talent shows, and rainy day activities.
• On-site Amenities: A camp store ("Zodiac") offers artisan coffees and teas, sundries, and RDC-branded merchandise. Bicycle, tennis racket, and pickleball paddle rentals are also available here. Babysitting/childcare services can be arranged.
• Staff Service: Reviewers consistently praise the helpful and friendly staff who are readily available, including the outdoor crew who daily restock wood, kindling, and ice.

Rockywold-Deephaven Camps promotes itself as a multi-generational, traditional family summer camp experience, emphasizing its century-old heritage and commitment to maintaining a rustic, unplugged environment. It targets families and groups seeking a respite from modern demands and an opportunity to reconnect with nature and each other without the distractions of constant digital connectivity. The phrase "take you back to an earlier era" or "summer camp for families" perfectly captures its appeal. Promotional efforts often highlight the unique combination of private cabin living with the communal dining and extensive organized activities, ensuring there is "so much to do." The seasonal nature of the camp, open from June through September, is clearly communicated. Booking is highly competitive, often reliant on a seniority and priority system for returning guests, with new reservations typically opening around March 1st. Special group and conference rates are also offered, as RDC is ideal for large family gatherings and events.

Customer reviews for Rockywold-Deephaven Camps are overwhelmingly positive, often reflecting a deep sentimental attachment and loyalty from multi-generational returning guests. The unique "unplugged" nature of the camp is consistently highlighted as a major positive, with guests appreciating the opportunity to disconnect from the internet (weak cell signal and Wi-Fi outside the office) and engage in outdoor activities and face-to-face interactions. The rustic charm of the cabins, complete with fireplaces and old-school iceboxes, is beloved, contributing to a sense of stepping back in time. The extensive range of activities, both organized and self-directed, is a significant draw, ensuring there's always something to do for all ages. The friendly and helpful staff are frequently commended, as is the unique system of daily wood and ice delivery.

However, it is crucial for prospective guests to understand the deliberate rustic nature of RDC to ensure it aligns with their expectations. As noted in reviews, there is no air conditioning or central heating in the cabins, and personal refrigerators are not available (relying on iceboxes). While bathrooms have seen some upgrades, the overall aesthetic is one of "rustic simplicity" rather than modern luxury. The terrain includes natural footpaths with hills, rocks, and roots, which can be challenging for some, although improvements have been made for accessibility where possible. The check-in/reservation process is often described as unique, with returning guests having priority, which can make booking challenging for first-timers. The emphasis on being "analog" means guests should be prepared to embrace a digital detox. For those who value constant connectivity or require modern conveniences, RDC may not be the ideal choice. However, for families and individuals seeking a traditional, active, and deeply connected experience with nature and loved ones, RDC remains "the best" and a "one-of-a-kind lake experience."

The main contact number for Rockywold-Deephaven Camps (RDC) is (603) 968-3313 or +1 603-968-3313.