Horse camping opportunities in the Hudson, New Hampshire area are limited but available within driving distance. The region features wooded terrain with elevations ranging from 100 to 400 feet above sea level and has a northeastern climate with distinct seasons. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing, while summer camping season typically runs May through October with humidity levels increasing in July and August.
What to do
Trail riding access: Hidden Valley RV and Golf Park spans 1300 acres with various terrain, though specific horse trails aren't advertised. "The campground is 1300 acres owned and operated by the Simonsen family in Derry, NH. The main attraction of this campground is the golf course of 9 or 18 holes," notes reviewer Christy C.
Fishing opportunities: Ramblewood Cabins and Campground offers fishing access with spacious sites. "We have stayed here a few times and really enjoyed sites and hospitality!" says Anne G. This location in Pittsburg requires driving from Hudson but provides outdoor recreation options.
Hiking exploration: Extensive trail networks exist near some campgrounds that may accommodate horses with proper permissions. "Blue Hill is within hiking distance, and it is a favorite spot for seeing the sunrise. Apparently you can see all the way to Boston!" writes Rita M. about the terrain near Ponkapoag Camp.
What campers like
Natural swimming: Ponkapoag Camp offers swimming in their pond when weather permits. "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," writes Stacy, highlighting the recreational options.
Rustic cabin experience: Cabins without electricity provide a more primitive camping option. "Spending Friday & Saturday in one of the cabins (w/woodstove) is deal for a winter weekend adventure!" shares Stu L. about Ponkapoag's cabins, which could potentially accommodate equestrians exploring nearby trails.
Wildlife viewing: The wetland ecosystem supports diverse plant and animal life. "We explored all over the bog looking for interesting species of plants and animals and found so many amazing things," writes Asher K. about their field biology explorations at Ponkapoag.
What you should know
Limited equestrian facilities: None of the reviewed campgrounds specifically advertise horse corrals, stables, or dedicated equestrian camping areas. Contact management directly before planning a horse camping trip.
Campground amenities vary significantly: Hidden Valley RV and Golf Park offers full hookup sites with modern facilities. "The amenities are state of the art, clean laundry center, restrooms, bath house, grocery store, bar & grill, playground & 2 swimming beaches," reports Christy C., though horse accommodations aren't mentioned.
Rustic camping conditions: Some campgrounds have minimal facilities. "It is rustic camping, no water or electricity and the bathroom is an outhouse and no showers," explains Stacy about Ponkapoag Camp, which could present challenges for horse campers needing certain amenities.
Tips for camping with families
Check campground policies: Not all campgrounds welcome pets or horses. "The people are friendly and we have always had a good time. The kids can hang out in the clubhouse if it's raining or swim in the pond if it's hot," says Stacy about Ponkapoag Camp's family-friendly atmosphere.
Educational opportunities: Ponkapoag Camp provides nature exploration for children. "This is an amazing site to take anyone who is adventurous and loves to explore. It also doesn't hurt that it's so close to Boston," writes Asher K., suggesting the educational value for families interested in nature study.
Pack sufficient supplies: Remote locations require careful planning. "We brought all our water from home, and it worked well. Make sure you bring campsuds or other eco-friendly soap since the toilets are just outhouses without running water much of the year," advises Rita M. about Ponkapoag's rustic conditions.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: At Hidden Valley RV and Golf Park, RV sites have varying quality. "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," cautions Carry M.
Seasonal considerations: Many campgrounds operate seasonally. "A lot of the campers are seasonal which is May - October each year. I did not see any tents there, only hard-sided units," notes Christy C. about Hidden Valley RV Park, suggesting it may cater more to long-term RV campers than short-term horse camping visitors.
RV size restrictions: Not all campgrounds can accommodate larger rigs with horse trailers. "Nice RV campground with alot of seasonal residents. Plenty of tent sites," reports Shawn C. about Hidden Valley, but doesn't mention space for horse trailers, which would require advance verification.
