Bear Brook State Park is the largest developed state park in New Hampshire, encompassing over 10,000 acres of diverse landscapes, including forests, marshes, and ponds.
Located in the towns of Allenstown, Hooksett, and Candia, this expansive park offers a variety of recreational activities year-round, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike.
Things to do: Bear Brook State Park
Hiking and Biking:
- Trails: Bear Brook State Park boasts over 40 miles of trails suitable for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Popular trails include the Catamount Trail, which offers beautiful views, and the Bear Hill Trail, leading to the historic Bear Hill Fire Tower.
Fishing and Boating:
- Ponds: The park is home to several ponds, including Catamount Pond and Beaver Pond, where visitors can enjoy fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. Fishing licenses are required for anglers over the age of 16.
Swimming:
- Catamount Pond: A designated swimming area with a sandy beach is available at Catamount Pond, perfect for cooling off during the summer months.
Camping:
- Campgrounds: Bear Brook State Park offers two campgrounds with a total of 101 sites. The Beaver Pond Campground provides both standard and electric sites, while the Bear Hill Pond Campground offers a more primitive camping experience.
- Cabins: For a more comfortable stay, the park also has rental cabins that provide a rustic yet cozy lodging option.
Winter Activities:
- Snowmobiling: In the winter, the park’s trails are open for snowmobiling, offering miles of scenic routes through the snowy landscape.
- Cross-country Skiing and Snowshoeing: The extensive trail network is also perfect for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
Archery and Hunting:
- Archery Range: The park features a designated archery range for enthusiasts to practice their skills.
- Hunting: Hunting is allowed in certain areas of the park during the appropriate seasons, following state regulations.
Tips for Visitors
- Plan Ahead: Check the park’s website or contact the visitor center for updates on trail conditions, closures, and any special events.
- Pack Accordingly: Bring plenty of water, snacks, and appropriate gear for your planned activities. Bug spray and sunscreen are recommended during the summer months.
- Respect Wildlife: Bear Brook State Park is home to a variety of wildlife. Maintain a safe distance and do not feed or disturb the animals.
- Leave No Trace: Help preserve the park’s natural beauty by carrying out all trash and following Leave No Trace principles.
Nearby Attractions
- Pawtuckaway State Park: Located nearby, this park offers additional hiking, camping, and rock climbing opportunities.
- Canterbury Shaker Village: A historic site offering guided tours and insights into the Shaker way of life.
- McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center: An engaging science museum and planetarium located in Concord, perfect for a family outing.
Getting There
Bear Brook State Park is easily accessible by car and is located approximately 15 miles northeast of Concord, New Hampshire’s capital.
- Address: 61 Deerfield Road, Allenstown, NH 03275
- GPS Coordinates: 43.1386° N, 71.3398° W
Conclusion for Bear Brook State Park
Bear Brook State Park is a versatile destination that offers a wealth of outdoor activities across its vast and varied landscape. Whether you’re hiking through scenic trails, enjoying water activities on one of the many ponds, camping under the stars, or exploring winter sports, Bear Brook State Park provides an unforgettable outdoor experience for visitors of all ages. Plan your visit to New Hampshire’s largest state park and immerse yourself in the natural beauty and recreational opportunities that await.
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