Equestrian camping near Meredith, New Hampshire presents challenges for riders seeking dedicated horse facilities. Located in the Lakes Region at approximately 500 feet elevation, Meredith experiences seasonal temperature variations ranging from winter lows around 10°F to summer highs in the 80s. Most campgrounds in the area accommodate standard camping needs but require horse owners to make special arrangements or explore alternative options for their equine companions.
What to do
Explore local hiking trails: Gunstock Campground provides access to numerous hiking trails in the surrounding area. According to Carolyn S., "This campground has nothing to do, or plenty you can do - walking, hiking, biking, and close access to all Gunstock's adventures."
Water activities: At Tippicanoe Campground, guests can enjoy fishing in a well-maintained pond. David G. notes, "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."
Winter camping options: For those seeking off-season adventures, some campgrounds remain open year-round. Heather B. shares about Hancock Campground: "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."
What campers like
River access: Many campers value waterfront sites at local campgrounds. Kim O. says about Hancock Campground, "Some lovely spots by the water. Open year round!! I have stayed here many times, three times in the winter (it is so nice to have an open bathroom in the winter!) and a few times in the summer."
Mountain views: Ramblewood Cabins and Campground offers scenic vistas appreciated by repeat visitors. Anne G. reports, "We have stayed here a few times and really enjoyed sites and hospitality!"
Well-maintained facilities: Cleanliness ranks high among camper priorities. David G. emphasizes that Tippicanoe Campground is "run by a very pleasant couple who take great pride in this property. Everything is immaculate from the bathrooms, shower, clubhouse, store and grounds."
What you should know
Site spacing varies: Campground layouts differ significantly in the region. At Gunstock Campground, Sara D. observed, "More of the sites have very little separation from the neighboring campers near you. We explored the grounds & noted some sites that were a smidge more secluded and plan to return again sometime!"
Seasonal wildlife concerns: Be prepared for potential insect issues during summer months. Lindsey M. cautions about her experience at Hancock Campground: "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, including all over the cars in the lot."
Tent site limitations: Tent campers should research site options carefully. Melissa B. advises about Gunstock Campground: "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."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming areas: Families appreciate water access for recreation. Tara S. shares about Hancock Campground: "There is also a fabulous swimming hole. Clear, cold and deep just off the car camping area."
Safety features: Gunstock Campground implements security measures appreciated by parents. Sara D. notes amenities including "pool and playground available, camp store, bike & Segway trails, quick access to some of NH's most beautiful mountains. Staff is friendly."
Storage solutions: For horse camping near Meredith, bring secure food storage options. Lindsey M. mentions, "We appreciated having a bear box on our site, especially since we couldn't keep anything in our car. It was big enough to fit our grill, cooler, trash, and bag of groceries."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: RVers seeking full amenities should research carefully. At Tippicanoe Campground, David G. reports, "the sites all have water, 50amp and sewer hookups. Very few tenting, mostly RVs on the well laid out grounds."
Campground security: Security features benefit RV campers with valuable equipment. Ryan F. shares about Gunstock Campground: "Very well kept and quiet grounds. The lot I was in was not wooded but still quiet. Check in was quick and friendly."
Site selection strategy: Choose sites based on your privacy preferences. Christine M. recommends Gunstock: "We enjoyed this campground! The staff upon arrival was so nice. It was so quiet at night! Got to walk to hike Gunstock."