Gilmanton's pet-friendly camping options sit between the Lakes Region and New Hampshire's central forests. Most campgrounds in this area rest at elevations between 500-900 feet, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during day and dropping to 50-60°F at night. Fall camping season typically extends through mid-October with peak foliage color occurring around the first week of October.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: Bear Brook State Park offers extensive trail systems suitable for dogs and owners. "The biking trails were a blast. We'll definitely be back again," notes one visitor to Bear Brook State Park Campground. The park contains over 10,000 acres of forest with multiple trail difficulty levels.
Kayaking and fishing: Clearwater Campground provides affordable watercraft rentals with lake access. "Kayak rental was super cheap and easy to do!" according to a camper at Clearwater Campground. The lake offers calm waters ideal for beginners and fishing enthusiasts.
Winter camping: For those seeking off-season pet-friendly options, Meredith Woods offers heated facilities. "Snow ploughing happens regularly and reliably. Indoor pool and hot tub are amazing on a snowy frigid winter day," reports a winter camper at Meredith Woods. Several campgrounds in the Gilmanton area maintain year-round operations with varying levels of service.
What campers like
Waterfront access: Pawtuckaway State Park features shoreline campsites that accommodate pets during permitted seasons. "The sites on the water book up quickly but they're perfect for fishing and boating. Also, the view!" shares a camper at Pawtuckaway State Park Campground. Waterfront sites typically require reservations 6-9 months in advance.
Secluded tent areas: Sun River Campground offers more private tent options along the river. "Rustic tent sites available on a River, very quiet nights, secluded campsites," explains a visitor at Sun River Campground. Most riverside sites feature natural shade and moderate separation from neighboring campers.
Campground amenities: Epsom Valley provides entertainment options beyond hiking. "Me and my boyfriend camped here after trying to find a spot up in the white mountains without any success. The owner was amazing, friendly and super accommodating! We played the mini golf in the front and had so much fun!" reports a camper at Epsom Valley Campground. Many dog-friendly campgrounds near Gilmanton maintain recreation areas separate from designated pet areas.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Most dog-friendly campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "I usually use #reserveamerica to book camp sites ahead of time and I mean months in advance," advises a visitor to Lazy River Family Campground. Waterfront sites across all area campgrounds typically book 3-6 months ahead for summer weekends.
Campsite variety: Campgrounds near Gilmanton offer significantly different site layouts and privacy levels. "Some of the sites are a bit too close to each other but there are some that are nice and private," notes a visitor to Bear Brook State Park Campground. Research specific site numbers before booking as terrain varies considerably between loops.
Pet policies vary seasonally: Some campgrounds restrict pet access during peak summer months. "Tried to plan ahead this year and get a prime site to learn they don't allow dogs anywhere in the campground during summer months," reports a camper regarding Pawtuckaway State Park. Always confirm current pet policies when booking.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Epsom Valley Campground offers structured recreation for children. "They have a nice little play ground witch is always the first thing my little buddy asks to go find," shares a visitor at Epsom Valley Campground. Most family-oriented campgrounds maintain designated kid-friendly areas separate from pet zones.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds provide multiple water recreation areas. "The indoor pool on the other side of the road at the sister campground Meredith Woods was splendid. I love the idea of being able to go swimming even if the weather is a bit crummy," notes a camper at Clearwater Campground. Swimming areas typically operate from Memorial Day through Labor Day weekend.
Campsite selection: Different sites offer varying levels of shade and privacy. "Site 5 was our spot for Memorial Day Weekend, level, partial shade, partial sun, large site. Easily fit our large tent, screenhouse, area to park our truck and still move around comfortably," explains a visitor to Paugus Bay Campground. Families with dogs should request sites with adequate space for pet containment.
Tips from RVers
Site access considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging navigation for larger rigs. "My biggest complaint is the narrow roads in the campground," reports an RVer at Paugus Bay Campground. Calling ahead for turn radius information and site dimensions helps avoid complications during arrival.
Hookup locations: Water and electric connections may require extended hoses or cords. "Water hook up was on the opposite side of the site of where the camper needed to be, no sewer hook ups," notes a camper at Paugus Bay Campground. RVers should travel with extension hoses and adapters when visiting older campgrounds in the area.
Winter RV options: Year-round camping availability varies significantly. "We stayed for a winter weekend, they have a few transient sites that can accommodate RV's year round," explains a visitor to Meredith Woods Four Season Camping. Off-season RV camping typically requires advanced preparation for freezing conditions even at campgrounds with winter services.