While options for dedicated equestrian camping near Nashua, New Hampshire remain limited, campers with horses can explore alternatives within reasonable driving distance. The region experiences seasonal weather variations with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F and winters dropping below freezing, making spring through fall the primary camping season. Most campgrounds in this area operate from May through October with limited winter services.
What to do
Golfing and swimming: Hidden Valley RV and Golf Park features a 9 or 18-hole golf course with pro shop and cart rentals alongside two swimming beaches. "The main attraction of this campground is the golf course of 9 or 18 holes. There is a pro shop, golf cart rentals, etc," notes reviewer Christy C. The 1300-acre property provides diverse recreational opportunities.
Hiking and exploring: Ponkapoag Camp offers extensive hiking trails through wetland ecosystems and wooded areas. "Hiking trails abound on the property. While none of the trails are steep, they all go through beautiful areas, with views of the pond, and interesting rock formations," writes Rita M. Blue Hill is within hiking distance and offers sunrise views toward Boston.
Fishing and boating: The pond at Ponkapoag Camp provides opportunities for kayaking, canoeing and fishing. "Water was nice and fish were biting," reports Gordon C. The pond features rocky boulders and scenic sunset views from the dock, making it ideal for water enthusiasts.
What campers like
Natural setting close to urban areas: Tippicanoe Campground offers a clean, well-maintained environment with access to Rand Pond. "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," explains David G.
Friendly management: Several campgrounds receive praise for their hospitable owners and staff. "This 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," notes a Tippicanoe Campground visitor. This attention to detail creates a welcoming atmosphere for guests.
Rustic cabin options: Ponkapoag Camp provides rustic cabins for those seeking a middle ground between tent camping and RVing. "Each cabin has between 2-6 beds. The mattresses in our large cabin were brand new dorm style mattresses, which were slippery but comfortable," shares Rita M. Many cabins include wood stoves for cooler weather comfort.
What you should know
Limited facilities at some locations: Ponkapoag Camp operates without modern conveniences. "It is rustic camping, no water or electricity and the bathroom is an outhouse and no showers," explains reviewer Stacy. Campers need to bring their own water and supplies.
Seasonal camper presence: Hidden Valley RV and Golf Park hosts many seasonal campers from May through October. "A lot of the campers are seasonal which is May - October each year. I did not see any tents there, only hard-sided units," reports Christy C. This creates a community atmosphere but may limit availability for short-term stays.
Site variations: Campground quality can vary by site. At Hidden Valley, one visitor noted: "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." Site-specific research before booking can prevent disappointments.
Tips for camping with families
Community spaces: Ramblewood Cabins and Campground provides spacious sites that accommodate family gatherings. "We have stayed here a few times and really enjoyed sites and hospitality!" reports Anne G. The open layout allows children room to play while remaining within sight.
Indoor options for rainy days: Ponkapoag Camp offers alternatives when weather doesn't cooperate. "The kids can hang out in the clubhouse if it's raining or swim in the pond if it's hot," shares Stacy. This flexibility helps maintain morale during multi-day stays despite changing conditions.
Educational opportunities: Natural areas provide learning experiences for children. "We explored all over the bog looking for interesting species of plants and animals and found so many amazing things. This is an amazing site to take anyone who is adventurous and loves to explore," writes Asher K. about Ponkapoag Camp. The diverse ecosystems offer hands-on science lessons.
Tips from RVers
Hookup access: Hidden Valley RV and Golf Park provides full hookup sites at reasonable rates. "There are 300 camping sites with full hookups. Very reasonably priced at $40 per night," notes Christy C. The campground accommodates a range of RV sizes, though positioning can be challenging on some sites.
Site selection concerns: When booking at Hidden Valley, request information about site levelness and hookup placement. One reviewer observed: "The site had very long grass, bare rock and mud. It was not a site we would have wanted to stay on any longer than the one night." Advance research can improve your experience substantially.
