Equestrian camping options near Derry, New Hampshire remain limited, with local campgrounds generally lacking specialized facilities for horses. While established campgrounds in the area don't advertise horse-specific amenities, some offer extensive grounds that may accommodate trailers with advance arrangements. Horse owners should contact facilities directly to discuss options, particularly for day-use trail riding access.
What to do
Golf while camping: Hidden Valley RV and Golf Park spans 1300 acres with a 9 or 18-hole golf course, pro shop, and golf cart rentals. The campground offers full hookup sites at $40 per night. According to camper Christy C., "The main attraction of this campground is the golf course of 9 or 18 holes. There is a pro shop, golf cart rentals, etc. There are 300 camping sites with full hookups."
Explore hiking trails: Gunstock Campground connects to numerous hiking trails with varying difficulty levels. Camper Sara D. notes, "Lots of trails on edge of the grounds, lots and lots of tent sites, platform on campsite, pool and playground available, camp store, bike & Segway trails, quick access to some of NH's most beautiful mountains."
Water recreation activities: Several campgrounds offer swimming and fishing opportunities. At Ponkapoag Camp, Gordon C. shares: "Water was nice and fish were biting. Can't wait to come back." The pond provides opportunities for kayaking and canoeing, with interesting rocky features to explore.
What campers like
Family-friendly atmosphere: Hidden Valley RV and Golf Park emphasizes welcoming service. As one camper experienced: "Our generator was down and we needed to pick up our friend at the airport. Lauri loaned us her minivan to go to the airport and Drew loaned us some tools to work on the RV. They were so helpful and treated us like family."
Quiet camping experience: Gunstock Campground receives praise for its peaceful environment. Ryan F. notes, "Very well kept and quiet grounds. The lot I was in was not wooded but still quiet. Check in was quick and friendly. All other guests were friendly as well."
Rustic cabin options: For those seeking alternatives to traditional tent or RV camping, Ponkapoag Camp offers rustic cabins that provide more shelter while maintaining a primitive camping experience. "Each cabin has between 2-6 beds. The mattresses in our large cabin were brand new dorm style mattresses, which were slippery but comfortable," explains Rita M.
What you should know
Site quality varies: At Hidden Valley RV and Golf Park, site conditions can be inconsistent. Camper Carry M. reports, "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. The site had very long grass, bare rock and mud."
Limited wooded sites: Many campgrounds feature primarily open sites with less privacy. Melissa B. advises about Gunstock: "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. I recommend the sites back in Breezy Knolls (K01-K17 I think?)."
Primitive facilities: Some campgrounds lack modern amenities. Ponkapoag Camp operates without electricity or running water. Stacy notes, "It is rustic camping, no water or electricity and the bathroom is an outhouse and no showers." Visitors must bring their own water and use eco-friendly cleaning products.
Tips for camping with families
Recreation options: Ramblewood Cabins and Campground offers spacious sites that accommodate families well. Anne G. mentions, "We have stayed here a few times and really enjoyed sites and hospitality!" The generous spacing allows families to spread out comfortably.
Indoor alternatives: For rainy days, look for campgrounds with indoor spaces. At Ponkapoag Camp, one parent shares: "The kids can hang out in the clubhouse if it's raining or swim in the pond if it's hot. Lots of hiking trails."
Adventure activities: Gunstock Campground provides numerous activities for energetic children. According to Kasey H., "They have an aerial obstacle course and a mountain coaster, places to swim, music festivals, hiking, etc." These activities can keep children engaged throughout your stay.
Tips from RVers
Hookup accessibility: When booking sites, confirm hookup locations relative to your RV setup. One RVer at Hidden Valley noted difficulty with utilities placement: "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."
Seasonal considerations: Many campgrounds near Derry have large seasonal populations. Shawn C. observed at Hidden Valley: "Nice RV campground with alot of seasonal residents. Plenty of tent sites. On site general store with grill."
Security features: Gunstock Campground implements security measures that RVers appreciate. Melissa B. mentions, "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." This provides peace of mind for RVers who may leave expensive equipment at their sites.
