Alternative options for horseback riding enthusiasts exist within driving distance of Alexandria, New Hampshire, though local campgrounds lack dedicated equestrian facilities. Gunstock Campground in nearby Gilford offers spacious camping options with recreational activities beyond trail riding. Campers can explore the surrounding White Mountain region during day trips while maintaining a comfortable base camp.
What to do
Swimming opportunities: At Gunstock Campground, visitors have multiple water recreation options. As one camper noted, "We enjoyed this campground! The staff upon arrival was so nice. It was so quiet at night! Got to walk to hike Gunstock."
Aerial adventures: Experience the mountain coaster and aerial course at Gunstock. A camper mentioned, "It has pretty spacious sites, they have an aerial obstacle course and a mountain coaster, places to swim, music festivals, hiking, etc."
Riverside relaxation: The riverside sites at Hancock Campground provide natural waterfront access. A visitor shared, "We got site #19, which was one of the last sites available. It had a picnic table, fire pit, and bear box. There were awesome waterfront sites nearby."
What campers like
Natural sound barriers: Hancock Campground offers sites with natural white noise. A reviewer explained, "Great for primitive camping. Beautiful area adjacent to the river. Set up a hammock on the shoreline and have a tasty beverage before bed."
Clean facilities: Tippicanoe Campground maintains high standards for its amenities. One camper reported, "Everything is immaculate from the bathrooms, shower, clubhouse, store and grounds so you can relax and know that the kids are safe and you will be stress-free for your stay."
Wooded privacy: Gunstock provides select secluded sites among their offerings. A reviewer advised, "I recommend the sites back in Breezy Knolls (K01-K17 I think?) and then I believe sites 203 and 205 were nice and tucked away in the trees as well."
What you should know
Seasonal insect considerations: Hancock Campground can have periodic insect issues. A camper warned, "Big negative: Our site was completely swarmed with bees. We checked a few vacant sites to see if maybe it was just our site, but we found them all around, including all over the cars in the lot."
Water level variations: River access can change seasonally at Hancock. A visitor observed, "The river access was great, though the water was very low."
Site accessibility: Some Ramblewood Cabins and Campground sites require effort to reach. As one camper noted, "We have stayed here a few times and really enjoyed sites and hospitality!" The spaciousness offsets the access challenges.
Tips for camping with families
Dog-friendly amenities: Gunstock provides dedicated areas for pets. A camper mentioned, "Campground has a fenced in dog park, playground, showers, clean bathrooms, and laundry facilities."
Safety features: At Tippicanoe, security is a priority for families. A reviewer highlighted, "This campground is run by a very pleasant couple who take great pride in this property. Many seasonal campers have been here for years and keep coming back for the friends and activities."
Winter camping options: Hancock Campground remains open year-round, offering unique off-season experiences. A visitor shared, "Stayed here for two nights in late December. Site #40 along the river was close to the bathroom yet had plenty of privacy from other sites."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Gunstock, certain areas better accommodate larger rigs. One RVer advised, "Most of the sites are out in the open though, or very close together. Not so bad if you're camping in trailers or RVs, but if tent camping you won't really have any privacy in those locations."
Hookup considerations: Tippicanoe offers full-service sites for extended stays. A camper noted, "The sites all have water, 50amp and sewer hookups. Very few tenting, mostly RVs on the well laid out grounds where you are not far from the beautiful beach."
Winter accessibility: For those seeking equestrian camping near Alexandria during colder months, winter camping at Hancock provides basic amenities. A camper mentioned, "Open year round!! I have stayed here many times, three times in the winter (it is so nice to have an open bathroom in the winter!) and a few times in the summer."
