Gunstock Campground's large campsites accommodate pets with a dedicated dog park featuring agility equipment. Bear Brook State Park Campground and Pawtuckaway State Park Campground also welcome dogs, though Pawtuckaway restricts pets during peak season from May through September. Most campgrounds in the Canterbury area maintain clean, well-maintained pet areas with waste disposal stations. The spacious sites at Wakeda Campground include a dog park with an agility course that receives consistent praise from campers. Pet-friendly accommodations range from primitive tent sites to full-hookup RV spots and cabins at locations like Granite State Campground and Ramblewood Cabins and Campground.
The White Mountain National Forest trails near Canterbury provide excellent hiking opportunities where leashed dogs can join their owners. Campgrounds with waterfront access like Sandy Beach Campground and Lazy River Family Campground allow dogs to cool off in designated swimming areas during hot summer months. The dog pond at Chocorua KOA offers a dedicated place for pets to swim separate from human swimming areas. Most campgrounds enforce quiet hours to minimize barking disturbances, with some providing doggie daycare options for campers planning longer day trips. The bathhouses at many locations remain clean despite heavy pet traffic, though campers should bring their own waste bags as availability varies between facilities.
$35 - $45 / night
"Tucked away in what feels like the middle of nowhere New Hampshire is it's largest state park. Bear Brook is full of trails, ponds and a fairly large campground."
"The park is very dog friendly for camping as well as hiking. The trails were very well marked and really conveniently close by to the campsites. Will definitely be returning!"
"New bath houses, New hook-ups on many sites Close drive to Lake Winnisquam and Winnipesaukee, Close drive to Gunstock Mountain, not far from Laconia, wooded sites, The camp has some seasonal full timers"
"This campground is one of my favorites in the lakes region. Affordable prices, large wooded sites and great staff."
$35 - $165 / night
"First of all, as we were driving we were passing all these other campgrounds that looked pretty run down and trashed. Enter Epsom Valley. What an awesome spot!!"
"I enjoyed the hiking trails in the back and a pretty good amount of things to do near by. Being able to walk to a store and restaurant is great."
$35 - $80 / night
"Large campsites, clean amenities, nice dog park, great store with everything you need and located near like Winni."
"Fairly extensive camp ground associated with Gunstock ski area on central New Hampshire."
$26 - $30 / night
"Having the river right there for the kids to fish and dogs to swim was great. We were all alone at the end of the field, and that was ok with us!!!"
"The family will definitely be making a few return trips, especially with the reasonable drive from the boston area to the grounds."
$35 - $140 / night
"My first time experiencing a park in the New Hampshire Park system. We went down with a group. Pawtuckaway State Park offers a variety of landscapes, with something to do and see for everyone."
"Driving around this past weekend I did notice that some of the sites had damp spots; site 71 was the worst with deep mud on the long approach."
$24 - $189 / night
"Campground is nice, clean, has a pond, playground, pool, Canoeing, sites are decent size, entertainment on some nights offered in pavilion, friendly staff, pet friendly & quiet nights."
"I had a view of the beautiful pond, which is really a lake, and wished I had more time to rent a kayak. The bathrooms were clean and easy to access, since I do not have sewer in my small pop-up."
$25 - $45 / night
$45 / night
"were fully booked up
- They provide firewood for $10 a bundle and it's a LOT of wood and it's very good wood
- They supply water (poland spring 2.5 gallon jugs) as there is no running water at or near"
GuideAdorable little camp! In New Hampshire; Vermont is across the river on the north side of the property. Nice bathroom, showers, laundry room, library. Spacious lots with tables and fire rings. Some long time campers are set up.
ScoutThe grounds are well maintained with flowers planted everywhere. Staff is extra friendly. Bathrooms and showers could use updating but were spotless. Very pet friendly with dog park, agility equipment, dog pond and dog wash.
GuideWe stayed At Wakeda Campground overnight during a trip from Maine back to Long Island, NY. It was located very close off of 95 and allows pets. We were overwhelmed by the beautiful massive forest. The campground was splendid with old tall, pine trees everywhere. They offered electric, water, and sewer hook up, trading post that had camping goods and snacks, WiFi hotspot, pool table, and lounging area. They also had a game room, miniature golf, coffee shop and dog park.
The first campsite they assigned to us was very secluded but unfortunately, we were coming in during a major rainstorm. That site was a little flooded so we chose another. It still had beautiful trees surrounding it but not as secluded from neighbors. There are also many seasonal campers there but all of their sites were beautifully decorated with flowers and such. Everyone was friendly that we encountered during our stay.
We had bathrooms located near our site. They were four separate bathrooms that had a sink and toilet and were clean. They did offer showers in another area but I did not use them.
Walking around we saw wild turkeys, bunnies, and a hummingbird. It would have been great if they offered a nature trail in the campground since the forest was so beautiful. There were paths that went into the woods but they were marked for employees only.
The next day we wanted to go for a hike before we hit the road. Unfortunately, the state parks near the campsite do not allow dogs during late Spring to early Fall. Using our Bring Fido App, we found Rails to Trails nearby that we could bring our dog and hiking cat. We did the Salisbury Point Ghost Trail that was nice and shady, though flat, but a nice leisurely walk for all of us.
ScoutPros- very clean, bathrooms kept up with regularly. Staff is very nice. They offer boat rentals, canoes, paddle boats and kayaks. Store on site and they do activities during the week. Definitely more kids friendly I think. They do have a pool, park, dog park, lake and food trucks visits at times. They have community fires and dances. Pet friendly. Wood available on site.
Cons- loud cars going all night, some lights in your face. Some people tend to fly down the road on golf carts. You can also hear the main road from the open style campsite. No privacy. People will walk threw your tent site. They will talk during the night while doing this, smoking seems to be allowed at pool. No fires between 9am-5pm.
Overall we had a good time.
RangerConsider the Thousand Trails membership when booking this site. Our annual membership fees basically covered what it would cost to camp here for two weeks.
The campground has good proximity to Orchard Beach and Portland. However, the spots are pretty tight, and the WiFi is awful away from the registration office. We were in the wooded area, but those camping on the outskirts seemed able to utilize their Starlink.
The dog park and pool were small but nice. The bathroom facilities were pretty good, though they weren't cleaned as often as they should be.
LegendThis campground is huge with over 300 sites set on nearly 200 acres and along a beautiful lake! It is in a great location between the Lakes Region and the White Mountains in New Hampshire with lots to do in and outside of the campground. There are two distinct and separate sections– the Danforth Bay Camping and RV Resort and The Bluffs RV Resort.
They assigned us to a pull thru site (#A16) in the Danforth Bay section that would supposedly fit our 45’ motorhome. When we pulled in the place was packed. The people camped across from us had a huge group of people and a massive load of wood delivered that was in huge pile and it was obvious that fire was going to burn all day and through the weekend. The neighbors on one side of us had a table set up at the end of their site and were selling hand-made goods with their kids. We decided this was not really where we wanted to be for a peaceful fall weekend. Much less, our site was not very easy for us to get in and out of. The office agreed to move us to a site in The Bluffs section which they said were normally only for seasonal campers but they would make an exception since they were closing for the season in one week. They informed us the water would be turned off during our stay but that was fine with us since we have a large freshwater tank that we could fill up before. The site we were assigned to was all gravel with absolutely no grass which was fine with us because we were away from the ciaos of the other section.
The park was very clean and well-cared for with no trash laying around. Campsites were tidy and people didn’t have lots of junk laying around. There are some transient sites in the Danforth Bay section that are nice and private and some are close to the lake. The campground is huge so you can get a nice walk in without having to go round and round. There is a lake which was great for our lab to swim in and made for a pretty spot to enjoy a glass of wine at sunset. There are tons of camping options at this park and loads of amenities like a camp store, multiple pools, a boat launch, game room, multiple pavilions, free weekend entertainment, hay rides, lots of restrooms, dog parks and lots more. Since we were there in the end of the season, many amenities were closed and the activities had wrapped up for the season.
ScoutYogi’s Jellystone Park– Milton, New Hampshire: Seasonal Camper Review I have been camping at Yogi’s Jellystone Park in Milton for five years, including the last two as a seasonal camper. Unfortunately, my recent experiences under new management have been disappointing and frustrating. Pet Fence Policy and Safety Concerns At the start of this season, the new general manager, Amanda, instructed me to remove my pet fence, citing liability issues. Despite my having signed a waiver absolving the park of responsibility for my dog’s actions, she insisted on its removal without providing a clear explanation. I complied reluctantly, only to observe many other campsites retaining similar pet fences throughout the season, including one seasonal camper who kept theirs up all season and transient sites with fences as well. This inconsistent enforcement of rules is unfair and undermines trust. After seeing others with pet fences, I reinstated mine to protect my dog, especially after two incidents where loose dogs entered my site and charged at my dog. Amanda then threatened me with non-renewal of my seasonal contract if I did not remove the fence again, forcing me to comply once more. I wrote to corporate regarding this issue since Amanda was of no help but never heard back from corporate. Loss of Seasonal Site and Corporate Decisions Yogi’s removed nine seasonal sites this year, including mine, with little warning. This decision affects long-term campers, some with over 20 years of history at the park. It appears motivated by corporate interests, favoring transient sites or cabins, which generate more revenue. The loss of a seasonal site after investing time, effort, and money into making it beautiful is deeply disheartening and reflects poor management priorities. Entertainment and Atmosphere Adult entertainment offerings have drastically declined. This year’s highlight was a 30-minute Saturday night hayride, with no live bands in the pavilion throughout the entire season. Under previous management, live music was a regular and enjoyable feature. The lack of engaging activities diminishes the overall campground experience. Myself and other campers offered suggestions to management regarding entertainment for adults but they didn't take any of our suggestions. Bear Interaction Despite the park’s theme, sightings of Yogi Bear are rare. On one occasion, a golf cart carrying excited children stopped to see Yogi Bear, but the character ignored them and drove past without interaction, which was very disappointing. Management and Staff Attitude Amanda, the general manager, presents as unapproachable and aloof. She did not introduce herself to seasonal campers at the beginning of the season, many of whom do not even know what she looks like and the camping season ends in just a couple of weeks. Most staff members also exhibit a snobbish attitude, often failing to acknowledge campers, which creates an unwelcoming environment. Cost and Recommendation The campground is overpriced relative to the quality of experience and level of service provided. Given the inconsistent rule enforcement, loss of seasonal sites, diminished entertainment, and poor management attitude, I cannot recommend Yogi’s Jellystone Park in Milton NH Those interested in a Yogis campground should consider other locations.
GuideTucked away in what feels like the middle of nowhere New Hampshire is it's largest state park. Bear Brook is full of trails, ponds and a fairly large campground. This extremely family-friendly campground comes equip with trails, play structures, camp store, beach, and even a small baseball diamond. The sites are fairly large and if you need some privacy, reserve site 12. There is a great trail that is around Beaver Pond, roughly 2-3 miles with plenty of opportunities for dogs to swim, yeah for dog friendly! This campground is beautiful, quiet in places and has everything you need for a great weekend away!
LegendMy first time experiencing a park in the New Hampshire Park system. We went down with a group. Pawtuckaway State Park offers a variety of landscapes, with something to do and see for everyone. The park includes a large family beach on the lake. There are many opportunities for hiking, with trails leading to many special points of interest, including a mountaintop fire tower; an extensive marsh where beavers, deer, and great blue herons may be seen.
The park lines the shore of beautiful Pawtuckaway Lake. The 192 sites are wooded and many provide views of the lake. Each campsite has an open fire ring, picnic table, flat areas for a tent, and a parking space. The bathhouses are equipped with running water, flush toilets, and 24 hour showers. There are no hook-ups at any of the campsites. The park also has a camp store where canoe and kayaks are available, as well as a plublic canoe and kayak launch. Five cabins are available; each sleeps six people, has electricity, and includes a fire ring and picnic table. Pets are not allowed in the campground or beach area of the park.
Campgrounds near Canterbury, New Hampshire offer seasonal accessibility primarily from May through October. Most campgrounds in this region of central New Hampshire are situated between 400-600 feet elevation, creating moderate temperatures that typically range from 50-85°F during camping season. Water access varies significantly between locations with some offering pond frontage and others featuring river access.
Mountain biking trails: Bear Brook State Park Campground maintains extensive biking networks accessible directly from campsites. "The mountain biking trails were a blast. We'll definitely be back again," notes Eammon C. The park spans 10,000 acres of forest preserve with varied terrain for different skill levels.
Kayaking on French Pond: Spacious Skies French Pond provides direct access to a substantial body of water. "I had a view of the beautiful pond, which is really a lake, and wished I had more time to rent a kayak," writes Ann B. The pond covers approximately 25 acres according to another camper.
Hiking to fire towers: Multiple trails near Epsom Valley Campground lead to elevated viewpoints. "Epsom is great spot to do some hiking - and this was a nice place to spend the night. There is a good quick fire tower route nearby if you want to get up high," reports Lyssa M. Most trails maintain moderate difficulty ratings suitable for family hiking.
Tubing on Suncook River: The Suncook River offers gentle current perfect for relaxed floating during summer months. "Whether you're floating down the river (with return transport provided), swimming in the well maintained pool, or chasing your toddler back and forth in the kids pool," writes Dan M. about Lazy River Family Campground. Water levels vary throughout the season, typically lowest in August.
Private wooded sites: Many campers appreciate secluded spots with natural separation. "Located in a 10000 acre forest preserve, the campground is heavily forested and very secluded from civilization. We stayed on site 22, which was spacious and private from the other sites on either side," writes Ellen C. about Bear Brook State Park Campground.
Waterfront camping: Sites directly on lakes or ponds receive consistent praise. "The sites on the water book up quickly but they're perfect for fishing and boating. Also, the view!" notes J L. about Pawtuckaway State Park Campground. Several campgrounds offer water-adjacent sites that typically require booking 3-6 months in advance.
Free canoe use: Some locations include watercraft with site rental. "Our campsite was nice and level, right next to a river (with free canoe use!) and even had hammock trees," shares Molly G. about Epsom Valley Campground. These amenities often aren't advertised prominently but provide significant value.
Recently renovated facilities: Campgrounds with updated amenities receive higher ratings. "New bath houses, New hook-ups on many sites," reports Andrew P. about Granite State Campground. Several locations have undergone renovations within the past 3-5 years.
Site selection matters: Campground layouts vary significantly within the same property. "Mostly level sites sit under towering pines and vary greatly in size. Many of the sites are separated from their neighbors by large, downed pine trees," explains Jean C. about Bear Brook State Park. Sites nearest to playgrounds or facilities experience more foot traffic.
Seasonal restrictions: Some parks limit services during shoulder seasons. "Although reservations are available online, I didn't need them for closing weekend; 3 sites were occupied when I arrived, about 15 by the end of the weekend," shares the same reviewer about off-peak availability.
Water levels fluctuate: Rivers and swimming areas change throughout the season. "The river was rather shallow but there is a swimming area downstream that would be deep enough for a swim," notes Quinn G. about Lazy River Family Campground. August typically has lowest water levels in regional waterways.
Cell service varies: Mobile connectivity differs dramatically between locations. "Cell phone coverage varies from 1-2 bars, not always 4G, on Verizon," reports a camper at Bear Brook. ATT generally provides better coverage than Verizon throughout the Canterbury camping region.
Playground access: Sites near play areas benefit families with small children. "The tent sites were large which was great as we had two tents at ours. The park is very dog friendly for camping as well as hiking," shares Gabby M. about pet-friendly camping options at Bear Brook State Park Campground.
Kid-friendly water features: Multiple depth options accommodate different swimming abilities. "The camp has some seasonal full timers and many transient sites. I stayed with my sons Boy Scout troop and we loved it," notes Andrew P. about Granite State Campground's family environment.
Multiple bathroom locations: Consider proximity to facilities when booking with children. "Bathhouses offer coin-operated showers; I noticed a price difference between the two of them, so went with the less expensive option!" advises a Bear Brook camper regarding facility options.
Quiet camping loops: Family groups can find more secluded areas within larger campgrounds. "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," recommends Melissa B. about Gunstock Campground.
Site length accuracy: Verify actual dimensions when booking for larger rigs. "I was in site 38 and found that the little loop to my campsite was tight to exit (I was towing a 14' teardrop, not a big trailer) and I had to be careful to swing wide at the corner," cautions Jean C. about navigating Bear Brook State Park.
Dump station availability: Not all campgrounds offer full hookups or dump facilities. "There are no hookups, but there is running water and a dump station is available," notes the same reviewer about Bear Brook's limited services.
Uneven terrain: Many sites require leveling equipment. "The campground has a gravel area at the sites where the fire ring and picnic tables are. Where we parked our trailer was some gravel sand and dirt," describes Harold C. about Spacious Skies French Pond, indicating variable site surfaces.
Access road conditions: Some campgrounds have challenging approach roads. "Camp roads would benefit from grading, but they're navigable," observes a reviewer regarding Lazy River Family Campground's entrance conditions. Interior roads at many locations remain unpaved.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Canterbury, NH?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Canterbury, NH is Bear Brook State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 28 reviews.
What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Canterbury, NH?
TheDyrt.com has all 190 dog-friendly camping locations near Canterbury, NH, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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