Campgrounds near Grafton, New Hampshire offer primitive to developed camping experiences with varying amenities and access to White Mountain National Forest trails. While specialized horse facilities are limited in the immediate area, several campgrounds within driving distance accommodate pets and provide access to outdoor recreation. Most sites operate seasonally with peak visitation from May through October when temperatures range from 45-80°F.
What to do
River activities: Hancock Campground provides direct river access for swimming and fishing. "There is a fabulous swimming hole. Clear, cold and deep just off the car camping area," notes Tara S. Sites near the water are highly sought after but fill quickly during summer weekends.
Hiking and mountain exploration: Gunstock Campground serves as a gateway to numerous trails. "Got to walk to hike Gunstock," says Christine M., who appreciated the campground's location. The area provides moderate to difficult terrain suitable for day hikers of varying experience levels.
Winter recreation: Unlike many seasonal facilities, some campgrounds remain open year-round. "Stayed here for two nights in late December. Site #40 along the river was close to the bathroom yet had plenty of privacy from other sites," reports Heather B. about her winter camping experience at Hancock Campground.
What campers like
Privacy and separation: Tent-only areas offer more seclusion at some campgrounds. "We got site #19, which was one of the last sites available. It had a picnic table, fire pit, and bear box," explains Tara S. about Hancock Campground's walk-in tent sites that create a community atmosphere away from vehicles.
Clean facilities: Tippicanoe Campground maintains high standards according to David G.: "Everything is immaculate from the bathrooms, shower, clubhouse, store and grounds so you can relax and know that the kids are safe." Well-maintained bathrooms and showers rank consistently high in camper reviews.
Spacious sites: Multiple campgrounds offer generous spacing between sites. "We have stayed here a few times and really enjoyed sites and hospitality!" shares Anne G. about Ramblewood Cabins and Campground, noting the ample room between campsites.
What you should know
No dedicated equestrian facilities: While horseback riders seek equestrian camping near Grafton, New Hampshire, the immediate campgrounds lack dedicated horse corrals or specialized facilities. Horse owners must plan accordingly and contact campgrounds directly about their policies.
Seasonal challenges: Insects can impact camping comfort. "Our site was completely swarmed with bees. We checked a few vacant sites to see if maybe it was just our site, but we found them all around," warns Lindsey M. about her experience at Hancock in late summer.
Reservation systems vary: Many campgrounds operate on first-come, first-served basis. "Campsites can't be reserved and the campground does fill up on the weekends," reports Tara S. about Hancock Campground, suggesting early arrival for prime sites, especially those near water features.
Tips for camping with families
Activity options: Gunstock Campground offers numerous family-friendly activities beyond basic camping. "It has pretty spacious sites, they have an aerial obstacle course and a mountain coaster, places to swim, music festivals, hiking, etc.," shares Kasey H., highlighting the variety available without leaving the property.
Safety considerations: Some campgrounds require bear-safe food storage. "We appreciated having a bear box on our site, especially since we couldn't keep anything in our car," notes Lindsey M., emphasizing the importance of following wildlife precautions with children.
Noise factors: Consider site location relative to attractions and roads. "The traffic was loud in this area and the sites didn't have bear boxes, but there were no bees to be found," explains Lindsey M., suggesting families weigh different factors when selecting sites.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Tippicanoe Campground offers full-service sites. "The sites all have water, 50amp and sewer hookups," confirms David G., making it suitable for RVers requiring complete utility connections.
Space limitations: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger recreational vehicles. Melissa B. notes about Gunstock Campground, "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."
Off-season options: Ryan F. found Gunstock Campground accommodating outside peak times: "Very well kept and quiet grounds. The lot I was in was not wooded but still quiet." Off-season camping provides more site availability and potentially quieter experiences for RVers.
