Zion's Recreation Camp

- 30 Onway Lake Rd, Raymond, NH 03077

Introduction / Overview: A Special, Secluded Retreat in Raymond, NH

Zion's Recreation Camp, nestled in the scenic town of Raymond, New Hampshire, offers a truly unique and special camping experience that sets it apart from typical commercial campgrounds. More than just a place to pitch a tent, Zion's Recreation Camp is established as a beautiful, rustic retreat primarily focused on providing a clean, quiet, and reflective environment for families, youth groups, and church congregations. It operates as a facility overseen by dedicated service missionaries and caretakers, emphasizing community, service, and fun in a natural setting.

The core of the camp lies in its secluded atmosphere on the picturesque Onway Lake, offering guests a chance to step away from the daily noise and engage with nature. The accommodations lean towards the rustic, featuring cabins (some equipped with stoves) and bunkhouses, but the focus is clearly on the outdoor experience: campfires, gorgeous sunsets, and lake activities. While it has a strong organizational and spiritual foundation for its primary user groups, its beautiful location and quiet amenities also appeal to general guests looking for a simple, natural, family-oriented escape in Southern New Hampshire.

The management and community are noted for their dedication, with youth groups often involved in preparing the camp for the summer season, adding a layer of service and fellowship to the camp’s culture. This sense of stewardship ensures the area remains well-maintained and provides a welcoming atmosphere for all who visit, whether for a few days in a little cabin or a week-long program.

Location and Accessibility: Southern NH’s Lakeside Gem

Zion's Recreation Camp is situated in Raymond, NH, a town centrally located in Rockingham County. This positioning makes it highly accessible for residents of the Seacoast, Manchester, and Southern New Hampshire, while still feeling comfortably secluded.

Address: 30 Onway Lake Rd, Raymond, NH 03077, USA

The camp is located directly on Onway Lake, a key feature providing a beautiful waterfront area and serene natural views. Access is convenient from major routes in the region, making the drive relatively quick from population centers. For locals, this means less time driving and more time relaxing by the lake. While the physical address is straightforward, potential guests should be mindful of the facility's specific guidelines, as camp use is generally arranged through reservation and adherence to camp policies. The setting itself is wooded and peaceful, giving visitors the feeling of being much further north than their actual proximity to the Seacoast and major roads.

The quiet nature of the location provides an excellent base camp for local exploration, though the camp's atmosphere encourages guests to enjoy the on-site activities and simply "just enjoy the area," as one visitor noted.

Services Offered (Community and Practical Support)

The services at Zion's Recreation Camp are tailored to support an organized, retreat-style experience, with an emphasis on group and family comfort:

• Accommodations: The camp offers diverse lodging options including rustic cabins, some equipped with stoves for basic meal preparation, as well as multi-bed bunkhouses and traditional tent setups for larger groups.
• Waterfront Access: A dedicated beach area on Onway Lake is provided, complete with boats (canoes and rowboats) available upon request for registered campers to use on the lake. Life jackets are also available.
• Service Missionaries/Caretakers: The camp is overseen by dedicated service missionaries or caretakers who manage the facility and assist groups, fostering a clean and supportive environment.
• Dining Facilities: There is a large dining hall/fellowship center available, which is essential for accommodating the various groups that use the camp for meals and large indoor gatherings.
• On-Site Facilities: Essential facilities include bathhouses and shower facilities, ensuring comfort even in the rustic setting. There is also a dedicated craft house for group activities.
• Policies: Strict policies are enforced to maintain the family-friendly and reflective atmosphere, including prohibitions on alcohol, smoking, vaping, firearms, fireworks, and pets. Quiet hours are observed from 11:00 PM to 7:00 AM.

Features / Highlights (A Focus on Fellowship and Nature)

The highlights of Zion's Recreation Camp are centered on group fellowship, outdoor activity, and the natural beauty of the lakeside setting:

• The Onway Lake Experience: The beautiful, clear water of Onway Lake is the centerpiece, offering swimming, canoeing, and kayaking opportunities. The lake also provides a backdrop for truly gorgeous sunsets.
• Amphitheater with a View: A unique and special feature is the amphitheater, which overlooks the lake and includes a fire pit. This space is perfect for evening programs, gatherings, songs, and reflection against a stunning natural canvas.
• Archery and Rifle Ranges: For organized programs, facilities like a rifle range and archery range are available, which cater to structured group activities and outdoor skill development.
• Campfire & Gathering Areas: Dedicated fire rings and a focus on campfires are available for groups to enjoy evening activities, cooking, and conversation. Cooking must be done in designated fire rings, not inside the cabins.
• Community Focus: The camp's culture emphasizes service, with youth groups participating in "getting the camp ready each summer," which instills values of service alongside recreation.
• Hiking Trails: Various hiking trails are available on the property, allowing for leisurely walks and a chance to explore the surrounding wooded landscape.

Contact Information (Reservations and Inquiries)

As Zion's Recreation Camp is primarily a group and retreat facility, it is essential to contact the caretakers or management directly to inquire about availability, reservations, and specific camp usage guidelines, as reservations are required prior to arrival.

Address: 30 Onway Lake Rd, Raymond, NH 03077, USA

Phone: (603) 895-2354

Mobile Phone: +1 603-895-2354

General Reservation Note: Guests must make a reservation before using the camp, and check-in is typically no earlier than 6:00 PM unless prior arrangements have been made with the service missionaries or caretakers.

Conclusion: Why This Place is Suitable for New Hampshire Locals

For New Hampshire locals, Zion's Recreation Camp is an excellent choice, particularly for families or local groups seeking a retreat that offers a high degree of seclusion and nature immersion without a long drive. Its unique suitability comes from its specific atmosphere and focus.

First, the proximity to Southern NH population centers combined with the feeling of being "away from the world" on Onway Lake makes it a convenient yet impactful escape. Second, for local church congregations and youth organizations, the camp provides an established, organized, and beautifully maintained facility tailored to spiritual and recreational growth. Third, for local families simply looking for a quiet lakeside cabin stay, the option of renting one of the rustic cabins by the lake offers a genuine, unplugged getaway where the main agenda is enjoying the campfire, the water, and the stunning sunsets. It offers a tangible break from commercialized recreation, delivering a peaceful, reflective, and community-oriented experience that leverages the best of New Hampshire's natural landscape. The care taken by the missionaries and volunteers ensures a clean and welcoming environment, making it a reliable choice for a wholesome family or group vacation.

Zion's Recreation Camp

30 Onway Lake Rd, Raymond, NH 03077, USA