Equestrian camping near Hancock, New Hampshire requires advance planning as specialized horse facilities are scarce in the immediate area. The region sits within the Monadnock Highlands at approximately 1,200 feet elevation, characterized by rolling hills and mixed hardwood forests. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing from November through March, while summer camping season typically runs from May through October with daytime temperatures averaging 75-85°F.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: While dedicated horse camping facilities are limited, riders can explore several nearby natural areas. Hidden Valley RV and Golf Park offers expansive grounds spanning 1300 acres with various recreational options beyond golf. As reviewer Shawn C. notes, "Nice RV campground with alot of seasonal residents... Fishing and swimming on property along with a club house."
Fishing excursions: Tippicanoe Campground provides access to Rand Pond for anglers seeking rainbow trout. According to David G., "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 and is a spring fed sandy bottom pond."
Golfing while camping: For those who enjoy combining camping with golf outings, Hidden Valley RV and Golf Park offers both activities in one location. As Christy C. explains, "The main attraction of this campground is the golf course of 9 or 18 holes. There is a pro shop, golf cart rentals, etc."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campground maintenance ranks high among visitor priorities. Tippicanoe Campground receives praise for its upkeep. David G. comments, "Everything is immaculate from the bathrooms, shower, clubhouse, store and grounds so you can relax and know that the kids are safe and will be stress-free for your stay."
Spacious sites: Ramblewood Cabins and Campground offers campsites with room to spread out. Anne G. reports, "We have stayed here a few times and really enjoyed sites and hospitality!"
Helpful staff: Management responsiveness makes a difference for campers needing assistance. At Hidden Valley, Christy C. shares, "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."
What you should know
Limited dedicated horse facilities: None of the reviewed campgrounds near Hancock feature horse corrals or dedicated equine facilities. Horse owners must contact campgrounds directly to discuss trailer parking and temporary containment options before arrival.
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds in the Hancock area operate seasonally from May through October due to harsh New Hampshire winters. Call ahead to confirm opening dates, especially in spring and fall.
Site conditions vary: Site quality can differ significantly even within the same campground. At Hidden Valley RV and Golf Park, Carry M. notes, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Activities for children: Family-friendly recreation options help keep younger campers engaged. Tippicanoe Campground organizes regular activities. David G. mentions, "Many seasonal campers have been here for years and keep coming back for the friends and activities."
Swimming areas: During summer months, water access provides cooling recreation. Hidden Valley offers multiple water features as Shawn C. notes, "Fishing and swimming on property along with a club house."
Wi-Fi access points: NV Farms Outfitters and Cabins and some other campgrounds provide internet connectivity in common areas, allowing teens and older children to stay connected while still enjoying outdoor time. This can be particularly important for longer stays or during inclement weather.
Tips from RVers
Hookup configurations: At Hidden Valley RV and Golf Park, utilities placement can complicate setup. Carry M. advises, "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."
Seasonal options: Many campers choose longer-term arrangements in the Hancock area. At Hidden Valley, Christy C. observes, "A lot of the campers are seasonal which is May - October each year. I did not see any tents there, only hard-sided units."
Full-service amenities: Jelena's Campground and other facilities in the region offer varying levels of services. Compare amenities carefully before booking, as toilet facilities, shower access, and hookup availability differ substantially between campgrounds.
