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Dog-Friendly Camping near Gilmanton, NH

213 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.

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    SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

    Gunstock Campground features wooded tent sites suitable for camping with dogs. The campground has pet-friendly accommodations including tent, RV, and cabin options, with pets allowed throughout the property. Large campsites provide ample space for pets to stay comfortably with their owners, and the fenced dog park allows dogs to exercise off-leash. Campers receive key cards for gate access, ensuring security while exploring with pets. The campground staff maintains clean facilities and enforces quiet hours, important for preventing excessive barking. Granite State Campground also welcomes pets with spacious wooded sites that accommodate tents and RVs. Water and electric hookups are available at pet-friendly sites, and campground management has been continuously improving the facilities.

    Hiking trails at the edge of Gunstock Mountain Resort provide excellent exercise opportunities for dogs and their owners. The nearby creek offers water access where pets can cool off during summer months. Both campgrounds maintain pet waste stations and require pets to be leashed when not in designated off-leash areas. Sites in Breezy Knolls section (K01-K17) and sites 203-205 offer more privacy and shade, beneficial for pets sensitive to heat or noise. The nearby lake areas provide additional recreation for pet owners. Dog-friendly campsites near Gilmanton fill quickly during peak season, so early reservations are strongly recommended, especially for the more secluded wooded locations.

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    Best Dog-Friendly Campgrounds near Gilmanton (213)

      1. Gunstock Campground

      4.9(14)9mi from GilmantonRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "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."

      from $35 - $80 / night

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      2. Granite State Campground

      5.0(7)4mi from GilmantonRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "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."

      3. Bear Brook State Park Campground

      4.4(28)22mi from Gilmanton100 sitesRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "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!"

      from $35 - $45 / night

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      4. Lazy River Family Campground

      3.8(8)12mi from GilmantonRVs, Tents

      "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."

      from $26 - $30 / night

      5. Epsom Valley Campground

      4.5(8)13mi from GilmantonRVs, Tents

      "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."

      from $35 - $165 / night

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      6. Pawtuckaway State Park Campground

      4.2(44)27mi from Gilmanton189 sitesRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "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."

      from $35 - $140 / night

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      7. Paugus Bay Campground

      4.0(6)13mi from GilmantonRVs, Tents

      "We seriously lucked out with getting two sites next to eachother over looking the lake though. Pros: -Owners were very friendly and helpful. -Lots of lake activities to do."

      "Campground is primarily seasonal sites, however the nightly rentals sites are nicely located near the water."

      8. Sun River Campground

      3.8(4)10mi from GilmantonRVs, Tents

      "The facilities, which include bathhouses, a laundry room, and a beach situated along a tranquil river, contribute to a harmonious and enjoyable experience for all."

      "Pros=rustic tent sites available on a River, very quiet nights, secluded campsites (however the 5 sites near us were empty so that likely has a little to do with noise level & space), playground available"

      from $30 / night

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      9. Harbor Hill Camping Area

      4.3(8)18mi from GilmantonRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "Free DVD and book lending library, so if you aren't enjoying the great outdoors or walking on their nature trails, you can just read or watch.  Easy access to the lake or hiking trails in the area. "

      "Sinks are located outside and there is a bIgger sink for washing dishes. We were on an electric/water site but they also have a few primitive sites. We loved it here and will definitely be back."

      from $3500 - $4500 / night

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      10. Clearwater Campground

      4.2(6)16mi from GilmantonRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "The lake beach was fantastic, very nicely maintained. Kayak rental was super cheap and easy to do!

      The campground is relatively near Meredith town center, and not far from Weirs beach."

      from $33 - $56 / night

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    Dog-Friendly Camping Reviews near Gilmanton, NH

    1133 Reviews of 213 Gilmanton Campgrounds


    • Kathy S.
      Oct. 1, 2022

      Pastures Campground The

      Riverside

      Adorable 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.

    • Marla B.
      Jul. 15, 2022

      Chocorua KOA

      Beautiful campground in the mountains of NH

      The 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.

    • Pawsfuradventure T.
      Jul. 22, 2018

      Wakeda Campground, LLC

      Beautiful forest

      We 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.

    • Jen
      Jul. 17, 2021

      Autumn Hills Campground

      Family campground

      Pros- 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.

    • Paulina B.
      Jun. 21, 2024

      Thousand Trails Moody Beach

      Consider Thousand Trails Membership for Better Value

      Consider 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.

    • Nancy W.The Dyrt PRO User
      Jan. 1, 2022

      Danforth Bay Camping & RV Resort

      Lots of amenites and campsite options

      This 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.

    • Julie A.
      Sep. 30, 2025

      Jellystone Park™ Lakes Region

      Downhill since new management

      Yogi’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.

    • Kristen B.
      Sep. 15, 2016

      Bear Brook State Park Campground

      Everything You Need

      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. 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!

    • M.A.D. P.The Dyrt PRO User
      Jan. 1, 2023

      Pawtuckaway State Park Campground

      Large and friendly park with plenty of water activity opportunities

      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. 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.


    Guide to Gilmanton

    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.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Gilmanton, NH?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Gilmanton, NH is Gunstock Campground with a 4.9-star rating from 14 reviews.

    What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Gilmanton, NH?

    TheDyrt.com has all 213 dog-friendly camping locations near Gilmanton, NH, with real photos and reviews from campers.