Camping options near Amherst, New Hampshire range from simple tent sites to full RV hookups with recreation amenities. Most campgrounds in the region are situated within a 30-minute drive of Amherst in surrounding towns like Derry and Gilford. While dedicated equestrian camping facilities are limited in the immediate area, several campgrounds permit pets and offer access to nearby trails suitable for day rides.
What to do
Mountain recreation access: Gunstock Campground connects directly to hiking trails on the mountain property and offers additional activities. "It has pretty spacious sites, they have an aerial obstacle course and a mountain coaster, places to swim, music festivals, hiking, etc.," notes Kasey H. about Gunstock Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds feature fishing access on premises. "Fishing and swimming on property along with a club house," writes Shawn C. about the amenities at Hidden Valley RV and Golf Park. The park spans 1300 acres with recreational options beyond standard camping.
Golfing while camping: For equestrian campers who also enjoy golf, some facilities combine both recreational activities. "The main attraction of this campground is the golf course of 9 or 18 holes. There is a pro shop, golf cart rentals, etc.," explains Christy C. about Hidden Valley RV and Golf Park, which offers activities for non-horse days.
What campers like
Privacy in wooded sites: Campers consistently praise locations that offer secluded spots among trees. "I was lucky to receive a tranquil, secluded spot next to a brook - perfect. This campground has nothing to do, or plenty you can do - walking, hiking, biking, and close access to all Gunstock's adventures," says Carolyn S. about her experience at Gunstock Campground.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds with well-maintained bathrooms and showers receive positive reviews. "Very well kept and quiet grounds. The lot I was in was not wooded but still quiet. Check in was quick and friendly," reports Ryan F. about his stay at Ramblewood Cabins and Campground, where sites are noted for their spaciousness.
Family-friendly atmosphere: Campgrounds with attentive staff create positive experiences. "We have stayed here a few times and really enjoyed sites and hospitality!" mentions Anne G. about Ramblewood Cabins. For equestrian camping near Amherst, New Hampshire, this welcoming environment can make a difference when traveling with horses.
What you should know
Limited equestrian facilities: Horse-specific amenities are minimal in the immediate vicinity of Amherst. Campers seeking horse-friendly sites should call ahead to confirm boarding options or nearby stables before arrival. None of the surveyed campgrounds explicitly advertise horse corrals or dedicated equestrian facilities.
Variable site conditions: Site quality can differ significantly within the same campground. "Unfortunately, I can't give high marks to our campsite. The water and electric were between our site and the next on one side and sewer between our site and the one on the other side. This made it difficult to place our trailer on the slanted site and reach all services," explains Carry M. about Hidden Valley RV and Golf Park.
Seasonal considerations: Many campgrounds have limited availability during peak seasons. "Many seasonal campers have been here for years and keep coming back for the friends and activities," notes David G. about Tippicanoe Campground, indicating the popularity of certain locations with returning guests.
Tips for camping with families
Amenity access for kids: Look for campgrounds with multiple facilities for children. "The amenities are state of the art, clean laundry center, restrooms, bath house, grocery store, bar & grill, playground & 2 swimming beaches," shares Christy C. about Hidden Valley RV and Golf Park, highlighting features beyond basic camping.
Adventure activities: Some campgrounds offer special attractions for families. "There is a zip line course and a metal 'slide' or coaster behind the Breezy Knolls area which can get kind of noisy between the sounds of the gear and the kids screaming. Lol. But it didn't really bother me personally," explains Melissa B. about her experience at Gunstock Campground.
Pet-friendly options: For families traveling with animals, including horses, not all campgrounds permit pets. "Campground has a fenced in dog park, playground, showers, clean bathrooms, and laundry facilities," notes Melissa B. about Tippicanoe Campground, which allows pets and has electric hookups.
Tips from RVers
Hookup placement: Pay attention to utility configurations when selecting sites. "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, trout stocked pond and all ammenities," explains David G. about Tippicanoe Campground.
Big rig accessibility: Larger RVs have limited options in some campgrounds. "This campground overall is very nice. The camp store has most everything you could need, and the campground is gated so you have to make sure you keep your key card with you whenever leaving in order to get back in," shares Melissa B. about her experience at Gunstock Campground.
Site separation concerns: For RV campers seeking privacy, site selection matters. "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," notes Melissa B., providing context for site selection preferences.