Campers seeking equestrian facilities near Danbury, New Hampshire face limited options as the area prioritizes traditional tent and RV camping. Located in the Lakes Region with elevations ranging from 700-1,800 feet, the area experiences four distinct seasons with winter lows averaging 15°F and summer highs near 80°F. Several campgrounds within 30-45 minutes of Danbury offer standard camping accommodations but lack horse-specific amenities.
What to do
Riverside exploration: At Hancock Campground, visitors can enjoy direct water access from riverfront sites. "There are some nice looking tent only sites we plan to experience come springtime," notes Heather B. The campground features "a fabulous swimming hole. Clear, cold and deep just off the car camping area," according to Tara S.
Mountain activities: Gunstock Campground offers extensive recreational options beyond basic camping. "They have an aerial obstacle course and a mountain coaster, places to swim, music festivals, hiking, etc.," says Kasey H. The location provides "quick access to some of NH's most beautiful mountains" according to Sara D.
Fishing opportunities: While horse camping facilities are limited, fishing is readily available at local campgrounds. Hancock Campground sits alongside a river where "people will get up early to fish," as Elliott B. mentions. At Tippicanoe Campground, "Rand Pond is the body of water at the campground and is restricted to under 10 HP boats. It is stocked with rainbow trout by the State of NH," according to David G.
What campers like
Secluded wooded sites: For those seeking privacy while horseback riding isn't an option, certain campgrounds offer more secluded experiences. "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," suggests Melissa B. about Gunstock Campground.
Year-round accessibility: Unlike many seasonal facilities, some campgrounds remain open during winter months. "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!)," writes Kim O. about Hancock Campground, making it accessible for cold-weather visits when trail riding might not be practical.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently note the cleanliness of facilities at Tippicanoe Campground. "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," reports David G., highlighting amenities that compensate for the lack of equestrian facilities.
What you should know
Wildlife considerations: Bear activity requires proper food storage at some campgrounds. "We appreciated having a bear box on our site, especially since we couldn't keep anything in our car," notes Lindsey M. about Hancock Campground.
Seasonal insect challenges: During warmer months, bees can be problematic. "Our site was completely swarmed with bees... They calmed down in the evening once it got chilly, but otherwise, they were constant," warns Lindsey M. This is particularly important for those considering horseback riding activities, as insects can agitate horses.
Site selection timing: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially waterfront locations. "Campsites can't be reserved and the campground does fill up on the weekends. We were lucky to score a walk-in tent site on a Saturday in August," reports Tara S. about Hancock Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Amenities for children: Ramblewood Cabins and Campground offers "spacious sites" according to Anne G., providing room for families to spread out. While not offering horse facilities, the space allows for other outdoor activities.
Safety features: Controlled access enhances security at some locations. "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," mentions Melissa B. about Gunstock Campground.
Recreational variety: Multiple activity options keep children entertained when horseback riding isn't available. "The campground has a fenced in dog park, playground, showers, clean bathrooms, and laundry facilities," notes Melissa B., listing amenities that accommodate families with diverse interests.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Gunstock Campground provides essential RV services including "electric-hookups, fifty-amp-hookups, thirty-amp-hookups, sanitary-dump, sewer-hookups, water-hookups" according to the campground features list. "Large campsites, clean amenities, nice dog park, great store with everything you need," says Ryan P.
Site layout considerations: Some campgrounds have limitations for larger vehicles. "More of the sites have very little separation from the neighboring campers near you," cautions Sara D. about certain areas within Gunstock Campground, suggesting research before arriving with a horse trailer or large RV.
