New Hampshire State Parks

Did you know that more than 6 million people visit New Hampshire’s state parks every year? These protected landscapes offer an unmatched mix of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. From mountain trails to ocean views, the Granite State’s park system attracts travelers who want to explore, relax, and reconnect with nature. 

Missing out on these scenic escapes means overlooking some of New England’s most breathtaking places. Each destination reveals a different side of New Hampshire: wild, peaceful, and full of character. This guide will help you discover which parks to visit, what to do in each one, and how to plan your trip with ease.

Sneak Peek

Coming up in this post, you’ll learn:

• Which state parks in New Hampshire are the most scenic and worth visiting year-round
  
  

• What outdoor activities and attractions you can enjoy at popular spots like Franconia Notch State Park and Pawtuckaway State Park
  
  

• How to plan your visit efficiently, from seasonal tips to nearby travel recommendations

Overview 

New Hampshire's state parks offer diverse natural beauty and outdoor activities, with the best choice depending on individual interests like hiking, camping, or coastal exploration.

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

Must-Visit State Parks

These parks are known for their stunning scenery and popular activities.

• Franconia Notch State Park: Offers mountain views, a tramway, and hiking trails.

• Pawtuckaway State Park: Great for lake activities, hiking, and rock climbing.

• Bear Brook State Park: The largest park, with many trails and campgrounds.

• Odiorne Point State Park: Features coastal trails, tide pools, and marine exhibits.

• Ellacoya State Park: Perfect for swimming and relaxing on Lake Winnipesaukee.

• Crawford Notch State Park: Known for dramatic mountain scenery and waterfalls.

• Greenfield State Park: A peaceful spot with small lakes for swimming and camping.

• Pillsbury State Park: Offers a rustic experience with ponds and secluded camping.

Lesser-Known Parks Worth Exploring

These parks provide a quieter experience with unique beauty.

• Monadnock State Park: Features challenging hikes to a mountain summit.

• Jericho Mountain State Park: A top spot for off-road and snowmobiling.

• Moose Brook State Park: A quiet retreat for camping and access to hiking trails.

Best Outdoor Activities

Enjoy year-round adventures in the parks.

• Hiking and Nature Trails: Trails for all skill levels in many parks.

• Camping in New Hampshire: Diverse campgrounds from family-friendly to rustic.

• Water Adventures: Swimming, kayaking, canoeing, and fishing in lakes, rivers, and the coast.

• Wildlife Viewing and Photography: Spot animals like moose and deer, and capture seasonal beauty.

• Winter Activities: Snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, ice fishing, and snowmobiling.

Travel Planning Tips

Plan ahead for a smooth and enjoyable visit.

• Best Times to Visit: Each season offers unique attractions.

• Park Fees and Passes: Admission varies, with free entry for NH residents 65+.

Must-Visit New Hampshire State Parks

New Hampshire’s state parks highlight some of the most breathtaking scenery in New England. From coastal views to alpine trails, these destinations combine natural beauty with outdoor recreation. Here are eight of the best parks to explore.

Franconia Notch State Park

Located in the White Mountains, Franconia Notch is one of the most visited parks in New Hampshire. The mountain pass stretches between Cannon Mountain and Mount Lafayette, offering dramatic views and year-round adventure.

• Ride the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway for panoramic summit views
  
  

• Explore the Flume Gorge, a natural granite passage with boardwalk trails
  
  

• Relax or swim at Echo Lake’s sandy beach
  
  

• Access a section of the Appalachian Trail for some of the best hikes in New Hampshire
  
  

• Enjoy skiing and snowshoeing during the winter months
  
  

Pawtuckaway State Park

Set around a scenic 783-acre lake, Pawtuckaway State Park in Nottingham is known for its boulder fields, wooded trails, and quiet coves.

• Paddle, kayak, or fish on Pawtuckaway Lake
  
  

• Camp near the water or in forested sites popular for camping in New Hampshire
  
  

• Hike the North Mountain or Boulder Trail for sweeping views and wildlife sightings
  
  

• Try rock climbing on the park’s famous glacial boulders
  
  

• Visit in autumn for vibrant foliage and crisp air
  
  

Bear Brook State Park

As the largest developed park in the state, Bear Brook covers more than 10,000 acres in Allenstown. It’s ideal for families, history enthusiasts, and anyone who enjoys a full day outdoors.

• Explore over 40 miles of trails for hiking, biking, or horseback riding
  
  

• Visit the Civilian Conservation Corps Museum to learn about the park’s 1930s origins
  
  

• Enjoy picnics and fishing at Catamount Pond
  
  

• Choose from several wooded campgrounds, making it one of the best campgrounds in New Hampshire
  
  

• Try snowshoeing or cross-country skiing in the winter
  
  

Odiorne Point State Park

Located near Portsmouth, Odiorne Point combines history, marine science, and oceanfront scenery. Visitors can enjoy views of the Gulf of Maine and nearby lighthouses.

• Walk the coastal trails overlooking the Isles of Shoals
  
  

• Explore tide pools filled with starfish, crabs, and seaweed
  
  

• Visit the Seacoast Science Center for interactive marine exhibits
  
  

• Learn about the park’s World War II fortifications
  
  

• Bring a picnic and enjoy the cool sea breeze on the grassy lawns
  
  

Ellacoya State Park

Ellacoya State Park sits along the southwest shore of Lake Winnipesaukee near Gilford. It’s one of the best spots for summer relaxation and family-friendly swimming.

• Stretch out on the 600-foot sandy beach with mountain views
  
  

• Swim in clear, shallow waters perfect for kids
  
  

• Launch boats or jet skis from nearby marinas
  
  

• Picnic under shaded trees or walk along the lakefront
  
  

• Enjoy easy access to nearby restaurants and attractions in Gilford
  
  

Crawford Notch State Park

Nestled in the heart of the White Mountains, Crawford Notch offers dramatic scenery and some of the most memorable hikes in New England.

• Hike to Arethusa Falls, the tallest waterfall in New Hampshire
  
  

• Climb Mount Willard for sweeping valley views
  
  

• Drive through the scenic Route 302 corridor during fall foliage season
  
  

• Camp at Dry River Campground for easy trail access
  
  

• Snowshoe or cross-country ski during the winter
  
  

Greenfield State Park

Located in southern New Hampshire, Greenfield State Park is known for its peaceful setting and small lakes. It’s a great destination for families seeking a relaxed getaway.

• Swim or paddle at Otter Lake’s sandy shoreline
  
  

• Camp in shaded, private sites surrounded by forest
  
  

• Spot herons, beavers, and turtles along the park’s nature trails
  
  

• Fish in calm, quiet waters
  
  

• Take day trips to nearby Peterborough or Monadnock region attractions
  
  

Pillsbury State Park

Located in Washington, New Hampshire, Pillsbury State Park offers a rustic outdoor experience surrounded by ponds, wetlands, and forested trails.

• Canoe or kayak through interconnected ponds
  
  

• Camp in secluded, primitive sites for a peaceful escape
  
  

• Hike through wooded paths that connect to the Monadnock-Sunapee Greenway
  
  

• Look for moose, deer, and loons in the early morning
  
  

• Visit during fall for a quiet leaf-peeping retreat
  
  

Each of these parks captures a unique side of New Hampshire’s natural beauty. Whether you prefer mountain hikes, lakeside camping, or coastal walks, the state’s park system makes it easy to experience nature at its best.

Lesser-Known Parks Worth Exploring

While the popular parks draw most visitors, New Hampshire’s lesser-known state parks provide peace, solitude, and just as much beauty. These hidden gems are perfect for travelers seeking a slower pace or a more private outdoor escape.

Monadnock State Park

Mount Monadnock is one of the most climbed mountains in the world, yet the surrounding park remains surprisingly serene. Located in Jaffrey, it offers challenging trails and sweeping summit views across southern New Hampshire and into Massachusetts.

• Hike to the 3,165-foot summit on the White Dot or White Cross Trail
  
  

• Explore less crowded trails such as Dublin or Pumpelly for longer routes
  
  

• Enjoy day-use areas and picnic spots at the base of the mountain
  
  

• Visit in fall for colorful foliage and cooler hiking weather
  
  

Jericho Mountain State Park

Jericho Mountain State Park in Berlin is a top destination for off-road and snowmobiling enthusiasts. It features a large trail network that connects to the state’s extensive Ride the Wilds system.

• Ride more than 80 miles of ATV and snowmobile trails within the park
  
  

• Fish or kayak at Jericho Lake
  
  

• Camp in designated sites that accommodate trailers and large groups
  
  

• Attend the annual Jericho ATV Festival each summer
  
  

Moose Brook State Park

Located near Gorham, Moose Brook State Park offers a quiet retreat surrounded by mountains and forest. It’s especially popular with campers and families looking for an uncrowded setting.

• Camp in shaded sites near Moose Brook’s cool, clear waters
  
  

• Swim in the natural pool fed by the brook itself
  
  

• Access nearby hiking and mountain biking trails in the White Mountain National Forest
  
  

• Enjoy a peaceful stay close to town yet surrounded by nature
  
  

New Hampshire’s hidden state parks provide just as many opportunities for recreation and relaxation as their famous counterparts. Whether you’re hiking up Monadnock, camping by Moose Brook, or exploring Jericho’s trails, these destinations showcase the quiet beauty that makes the Granite State unforgettable.

Best Outdoor Activities to Try

Whether you are visiting in summer or winter, New Hampshire’s state parks are designed for year-round adventure. With hundreds of miles of trails, dozens of lakes, and several coastal sites, the parks offer something for hikers, campers, families, and anyone who loves the outdoors. Here are some of the best ways to enjoy your visit.

Hiking and Nature Trails

New Hampshire is home to some of the best hikes in New England, and its state parks feature trails for all skill levels.

• Franconia Notch State Park offers trails that lead to The Basin, Flume Gorge, and the summits of Mount Lafayette and Cannon Mountain.
  
  

• Crawford Notch State Park has the Arethusa Falls and Mount Willard trails, both offering stunning views of the White Mountains.
  
  

• Pawtuckaway State Park features the North Mountain Trail and Boulder Field Loop, ideal for moderate day hikes.
  
  

• Bear Brook State Park provides over 40 miles of forested trails for hiking and biking.
  
  

• Many parks have interpretive paths that teach visitors about local wildlife and geology.
  
  

Camping in New Hampshire

Camping is one of the best ways to experience the state’s natural beauty up close. New Hampshire’s park system offers both developed and primitive campgrounds across different regions.

• Bear Brook, Pawtuckaway, and Greenfield are among the best campgrounds in New Hampshire for families and large groups.
  
  

• Pillsbury State Park provides a rustic escape with waterfront sites and canoe-in access.
  
  

• Ellacoya State Park offers easy access to Lake Winnipesaukee, making it ideal for tent campers who want a beach nearby.
  
  

• Campgrounds often include picnic tables, restrooms, and access to trails and lakes for added convenience.
  
  

Water Adventures

The state’s lakes, rivers, and seacoast offer plenty of opportunities for water recreation.

• Echo Lake at Franconia Notch and Ellacoya State Park on Lake Winnipesaukee are perfect for swimming and family outings.
  
  

• Pawtuckaway Lake and Pillsbury State Park are popular spots for kayaking and canoeing in calm water.
  
  

• For saltwater experiences, visit Odiorne Point State Park to explore tide pools and enjoy views of the Gulf of Maine.
  
  

• Fishing is available at many parks, with species like trout and bass found in freshwater areas. Visitors should review the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department’s regulations before fishing.
  
  

Wildlife Viewing and Photography

Wildlife enthusiasts and photographers will find plenty to capture throughout the Granite State’s parks.

• Moose, deer, and black bears are often spotted near Crawford Notch and Pillsbury State Park.
  
  

• Greenfield and Bear Brook are known for birdwatching, with herons, loons, and owls common in the area.
  
  

• Early morning and evening are the best times for wildlife sightings, especially near lakes and wetlands.
  
  

• The changing seasons also offer endless opportunities for photography, from fall foliage to spring wildflowers.
  
  

Winter Activities

Winter brings a new way to enjoy New Hampshire’s state parks, as many remain open for cold-weather recreation.

• Franconia Notch transforms into a skiing and snowshoeing destination, with easy access to Cannon Mountain Ski Area.
  
  

• Bear Brook State Park maintains snowmobile and cross-country ski trails.
  
  

• Pawtuckaway Lake offers peaceful settings for ice fishing.
  
  

• Jericho Mountain State Park, near Berlin, is one of the top snowmobiling hubs in the Northeast, featuring hundreds of groomed trails connected to the statewide network.
  
  

• Most parks have plowed parking areas and visitor centers that remain open during the winter season.
  
  

No matter the time of year, New Hampshire’s state parks offer experiences that combine natural beauty with accessibility. From hiking and camping to kayaking and skiing, each visit promises a new way to explore the state’s stunning landscapes.

Travel Planning Tips for Visiting New Hampshire State Parks

Visiting New Hampshire’s state parks is even more rewarding when you plan ahead. From seasonal highlights to park passes, a little preparation ensures a smoother and more enjoyable experience.

Best Times to Visit

New Hampshire’s park system offers something special in every season.

• Spring brings wildflowers and waterfalls at their peak in parks like Franconia Notch and Crawford Notch.
  
  

• Summer is ideal for swimming, camping, and family trips to places such as Ellacoya and Greenfield.
  
  

• Fall attracts visitors for its world-famous foliage, especially across the White Mountains region.
  
  

• Winter offers skiing, snowshoeing, and cozy camping for those who enjoy a quieter park experience.
  
  

Park Fees and Passes

Final Thoughts

New Hampshire’s state parks offer an unforgettable mix of mountains, lakes, and coastline that make the Granite State one of New England’s top outdoor destinations. Each park highlights a different side of the state’s natural beauty, from the alpine views of Franconia Notch to the oceanfront scenery at Odiorne Point. Whether you prefer hiking, camping, or simply enjoying a scenic drive, there’s always a new place to explore.

Every season brings its own reason to visit. Spring’s rushing waterfalls, summer’s lakeside picnics, autumn’s vibrant foliage, and winter’s snow-covered trails all showcase why these parks attract millions of visitors each year. With thoughtful planning and a spirit of adventure, your next trip to New Hampshire’s state parks can be as relaxing or as active as you choose.

Getting Your Car to New Hampshire Safely

If you’re planning to explore New Hampshire’s state parks but need to move your vehicle across the country or state lines, a reliable auto transport partner can make all the difference. AmeriFreight Auto Transport arranges vehicle shipments nationwide through licensed and insured carriers, so you can focus on the journey ahead instead of a long drive.

With both open and enclosed carrier options and a team of experienced customer service agents ready to assist, AmeriFreight Auto Transport makes vehicle shipping simple and dependable. 

Whether you’re relocating to the Granite State or visiting its scenic parks for a vacation, the company can coordinate transport with carriers experienced in ensuring your car arrives securely and on schedule, giving you peace of mind from pickup to delivery.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does Echo Lake State Park have a sandy beach for swimming?

Yes. Echo Lake State Park features a sandy beach surrounded by mountain views, making it a popular summer swimming spot for families.

Are there any New Hampshire state parks with rock climbing?

Yes. Parks such as Pawtuckaway State Park and Franconia Notch State Park offer excellent rock climbing areas suitable for beginners and experienced climbers.

Do New Hampshire state parks have free admission for residents aged 65 and older?

Yes. New Hampshire residents who are 65 or older receive free admission to most state parks, though some special programs or attractions may have additional fees.

Which New Hampshire state parks are open in the winter for activities?

Several parks remain open through the winter season, including Franconia Notch, Bear Brook, and Pawtuckaway. Visitors can enjoy snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and winter hiking.