Frequently Asked Questions About RDC

Frequently Asked Questions About RDC

Have Questions about RDC? We're happy to help!

Getting ready for your first visit to RDC? Not sure what to expect? We have developed this list of questions most frequently asked by first-time visitors. Have a question not answered here? Contact Us!           

Squam Lakes Area Attractions and Links

When is there availability for new guests?
We generally have openings for new families in June, early to mid July, late August and early September. Reservations for late July and early August weeks are difficult, but not impossible.
What are the dates for a particular week?

Please see the Summer Calendar pdf for dates of each week of our season, discounted weeks and theme weeks.

What are the age groups for your activities?
Our Wee Campers program, for 3-6 year olds, is held Monday thru Friday from 9:30am-12 noon at the Playground. We have activities throughout the day for children 6-12 years old and separate activities for teenagers. Many of our recreation activities are family friendly open to all ages!
What is there for teens to do?
Our Recreation Staff plan various activities throughout the week for the teen crowd. Some of these include an extreme scavenger hunt, night hikes, and trips to Jumping Rock. "Capture the flag" is a popular tradition for guests up to age 20. Other activities for guests of all ages are tie dye, frisbee golf, family softball, 5K run, mountain bike tours, and extended hikes.
What to bring?

Don't feel you have to bring everything, but a flashlight is essential!

  1. Flashlights
  2. Hiking gear (including boots)
  3. Day pack
  4. Camera
  5. Fishing gear
  6. Swimming accessories
  7. Beach Towels
  8. Sun Screen
  9. Sports equipment (tennis racquet, softball mitt, etc.)
  10. Bottle Opener / Corkscrew
  11. Hair dryer
  12. Warm jacket and sweater
  13. Collared shirt for men. (Please see Dress Code)
  14. Insect repellant
  15. Binoculars
  16. Folding chair
  17. Child / Infant life preserver
  18. General toiletries
  19. Rain gear
  20. A good book or two
What is the dining room dress code?

Over the last several decades, the dining room dress code has become more and more relaxed in keeping with general trends in society. Most guests have appreciated the greater informality, but recently there have been occasions when the level of casualness has, in the minds of many guests, become too great. We would like to remind all of our guests of the RDC dress code and ask for your cooperation in following these simple guidelines:

No caps, tank tops, bathing suits or bare feet at any meal. Casual sportswear is acceptable for breakfast and lunch but more appropriate dress is recommended for dinner (non-athletic shorts, pants, collared shirt for men; dresses, skirts, pants, non-athletic shorts for women).

What is included with the cottage rate?
Full American Plan rates include lodging, all meals, daily housekeeping, private dock and recreation programs and facilities including tennis courts. All you have to do is enjoy your vacation.
Do you have a beach for swimming?
All cottages have a private dock that provides lake access for swimming and boating. Both camps also have a small wading area for children, waders and those who are more comfortable walking into the lake.
What kind of meals do you serve?

It is safe to say that no one starves during their stay at RDC. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served buffet-style in the Rockywold and Deephaven dining rooms, each family occupying its own table.

Food is both plentiful and varied, including at least two entrees, "kid-friendly" choices, and plenty of vegetarian options at each meal. The kitchen staff is also happy to make up box lunches for hikers and picnickers. If you have food allergies or special dietary requirements, let us know. Our friendly staff will do their best to accommodate you and your family.

Do you allow pets?

Pets can not be accommodated.

Kennels are available in the surrounding area, such as:

What time is check-in and check-out?

Arrival and Departure times: Arriving guests should not enter their accommodation before registering at the office. To allow staff enough time to properly clean lodging facilities, check in time is after 4 p.m. Please check out by 10 a.m.

Guests staying in Rock Office or other rooms rented by the day are entitled to lunch on their day of departure. These guests must, however, check out of their room(s) before the lunch hour begins, no later than 12:30 p.m.

When is the best time to put in a reservation request?
RDC accepts reservations year-round; however reservations are not booked until February 15th for the upcoming summer. To give yourself the best opportunity to receive the cottage and dates of your choice on your New Hampshire vacation, send in your reservation request before February 15th.
What's the difference between Deephaven and Rockywold?
There is very little difference between the camps, however, the sun rises on the Deephaven's eastern shore and sets on the western Rockywold shore. Each camp has its own dining room, office and toddler playroom, and both are perfect places for your vacation.
How "rustic" is rustic?
All accommodations have a fire place, screened in porch, electricity, and indoor plumbing (with hot water!). Linens and towels are also provided. The decor is simple. The buildings are non-winterized, wooden structures that do not have heat, air conditioning, telephones, or televisions.
Do you have wireless internet access?
Wireless internet access is available at most of our guest accommodations. If your particular accommodation does not have access, the Ma Bell facilities and both Rockywold and Deephaven Offices can be used for wireless access.
Can I bring my motor boat?
Yes, however, guests may not bring boats with motors in excess of 25 horse power to camp. RDC is dedicated to the principle that strict limits on horsepower are essential to ensuring a truly inclusive Squam Lake community and a sustainable ecosystem for future generations to enjoy. RDC promotes low impact boating by providing a rental fleet consisting of canoes, kayaks, sailboats and rowboats with 2 & 4 horse powered motor options.
Is there babysitting available?
Yes. If you are in need of a babysitter, please contact your housekeeper or fill out a babysitting slip and post it on the bulletin board in either summer office to see if an off-duty staff person will be available. Off-duty employees are often eager to earn extra money.
What do T, S and D mean on the cottage floor plans and camp map?
The T indicates a twin-bedded room (or 2 twin sized beds); S are single-bedded rooms (or 1 twin bed); daybeds or cots in living rooms and/or porches are noted with a D. In keeping with RDC tradition, all beds are twin sized. Guests are welcome to push beds together!
What if I exceed the minimal cottage occupancy?
Most cottages accommodate guests beyond the minimal occupancy; such persons are charged the Overage Rate. Overages are charges for single overnight accommodations and individual meals for guests in excess of minimal cottage occupancy. The Overage Rate for children ages 2 - 5 is reduced by 50%. There is no overage charge for children under 2 years of age.
More Questions

Please feel free to call us with any and all questions at (603) 968-3313!

View the RDC Guest Manual in pdf format for more information.

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 Here are things to know before coming to RDC for your first stay.

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The next day we took a bag lunch to Loon Island. This trip was really special because we saw nesting eagles on Little Loon Island. We watched a loon diving for his lunch as well as hearing many birds.

Sally & Tom Warner

RDC Photo Gallery

Scenery Photo Gallery for RDC on Squam Lake

SQUAM LAKE SCENERY GALLERY

Facilities Photo Gallery for RDC on Squam Lake

FACILITIES GALLERY

Activities Photo Gallery for RDC on Squam Lake

RECREATION GALLERY

Lodging Photo Gallery for RDC on Squam Lake

LODGING GALLERY