Equestrian camping near Lyme, New Hampshire offers diverse terrain and facilities across the Groton State Forest region, which spans over 26,000 acres of woodland. The Connecticut River Valley's elevation ranges from approximately 400 to 1,500 feet, creating varied riding conditions throughout the seasons. Most equestrian campgrounds in this area open from late May through mid-October with nighttime temperatures that can drop into the 40s even during summer months.
What to do
Trail riding at Osmore Pond: The perimeter trail at New Discovery State Park Campground offers scenic horse-friendly routes. One camper noted, "There are hiking trails right from the campground, which we always appreciate. You can also go down to the water and rent a kayak or canoe from the rangers."
Mountain exploration rides: Hancock Campground provides access to White Mountain trails. "Hancock Campground is a five-minute drive from Lincoln, NH, and very close to awesome hiking trails in the White Mountain National Forest and Franconia Notch State Park," mentions a visitor who enjoyed the area's natural features.
River trail access: Trail systems connect through multiple forest areas. "The river access was great, though the water was very low. We appreciated having a bear box on our site, especially since we couldn't keep anything in our car," notes a Hancock Campground reviewer, highlighting facilities that serve both horse and human needs.
Swimming holes for horses: Several ponds throughout Groton State Forest offer horse-friendly water access points. "Beautiful area adjacent to the river. Set up a hammock on the shoreline and have a tasty beverage before bed," says a visitor about the waterfront opportunities at Hancock Campground.
What campers like
Private equestrian sites: Branbury State Park Campground offers spacious sites for horse trailers. "I couldn't believe how large the lots were. While they aren't super far from one another, they are large enough that they seem further than they are," noted a camper who appreciated the roomy layout.
Forest access: The extensive trail networks provide varied terrain options. "Great for Campers and tenters. Good fishing and plenty of hiking," mentioned a visitor at Groton Forest Road Campground, which connects to the larger forest system used by equestrians.
Well-maintained facilities: Most campgrounds maintain basic amenities for both horses and campers. "The bathrooms were always clean and well maintained. Park staff very friendly!" according to a visitor at Branbury State Park Campground.
Natural features: The combination of forest and water features creates ideal camping conditions. "This state park has a little bit of everything. There are sites with electric hookups as well as some without. Some sites are in the middle of a grassy field while others are tucked in the trees," describes a camper at New Discovery State Park Campground.
What you should know
Bear safety protocols: Food storage is essential when camping with horses. "There are bears in the area though so please be bear smart when camping here," warns a New Discovery camper, while another noted, "They have food compost bins here, but the rangers keep forgetting to unlock the bin, so you just have to ask them."
Site variations: Campsites vary dramatically in size, slope, and suitability for horse trailers. At Gunstock Campground, a visitor observed, "So many roots all over the sites, the platform did not fit our tent for 12 on it. More of the sites have very little separation from the neighboring campers near you."
Seasonal considerations: Most equestrian sites close by mid-October. "We stayed at New Discovery this weekend, the sites are well separated and private. The grounds are beautiful and well situated to enjoy Groton State Forest," noted a camper during peak season.
Water access limitations: Not all water spigots accommodate horse hydration needs. "The spigots for the water are not threaded. We tried our water bandit, with messy wet results," shared a New Discovery visitor who found a workaround at the dump station.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly swimming: Several campgrounds offer swimming areas appropriate for families. At Branbury State Park Campground, "The day use section has a wonderful beach with a swimming area and boat launch. Large trees provide shade on a grassy lawn, and grills are available."
Wildlife education: Children can learn about local ecosystems at ranger stations. "There's a nature center with all kinds of information and activities. A large playground. Volleyball and horseshoe pits," describes a Branbury State Park visitor.
Multi-use trails: Several trail systems accommodate both horses and hikers. "A five minute hike - though it is quite a rocky, boulder-y hike - from the sites leads to a small river and swimming hole," notes a Branbury visitor about accessible adventures.
Lean-to options: For families without horses, alternative accommodations provide comfort. "The lean-to lots looked nice too if you're looking for coverage. It was a little close to the road, but it isn't a major road so I looked at it like a reasonable alarm clock," suggests a Branbury camper.
Tips from RVers
Equestrian-friendly hookups: At Tippicanoe Campground, "The sites all have water, 50amp and sewer hookups. Very few tenting, mostly RVs on the well laid out grounds where you are not far from the beautiful beach, trout stocked pond and all amenities."
Trailer parking access: Consider campground layouts when bringing horse trailers. "Trailer parking is available near the equestrian sites, allowing for easy saddling and unsaddling," according to visitor observations.
Site selection strategy: Research specific sites for horse trailer accommodation. A camper at Gunstock Campground suggests, "I recommend the sites back in Breezy Knolls (K01-K17 I think?) and then I believe sites 203 and 205 were nice and tucked away in the trees as well."
Seasonal road conditions: Spring and fall weather affects access for larger vehicles. "I've stayed here a few times, and I've enjoyed each visit," notes a Branbury visitor, recommending specific timing for RV visits.
