5 National & State Parks In New Hampshire You Have To Visit

New Hampshire is a state in New England known for its scenic coastline along the Atlantic and its array of unique landscapes. Nearly 85% of the state is forested, and it abounds with hundreds of animal species from red bats and moose to bears and raccoons. The best places to take in these charming views are at one of the state’s national and state parks, each with many unique facets. Whether it is summiting the towering Mt. Washington in Mount Washington State Park or relaxing along the tranquil waters of Echo Lake in its adjacent state park, there is something for every outdoor lover. This article delves into five parks in New Hampshire you have to visit.

Mount Washington State Park

While it may be less than 100 acres in area, Mount Washington State Park makes up for it in elevation. This park is home to Mount Washington, the highest peak in the northeastern United States, reaching a height of 6,288 feet. Those looking for adventure can take a driving or ATV tour to the summit. Drive yourself or join a guided Auto Road tour; limited ATV/UTV options run on scheduled days. While not for the faint of heart, one can also climb to the summit on foot, but this is only for experienced mountaineers. The climb can take upwards of eight hours, and routes like the Winter Lion Head Trail are very steep with jagged rock throughout.

On a more relaxing note, Mount Washington State Park also has plenty of relaxing alternatives for visitors. A cafeteria and gift shops allow one to grab a bite as they peruse through themed items for a fun souvenir. Meanwhile, the Mount Washington Observatory and its museum are full of items, exhibits, and information on the mountain, perfect for some knowledge of your surroundings.

Franconia Notch State Park

Hidden within the White Mountains of Northern New Hampshire, Franconia Notch State Park is a reprieve of endless proportions. This 6,700-acre park and nature preserve is named after Franconia Notch, an eight-mile-long mountain pass where the I-93 cuts through the Kinsman and Franconia mountain ranges. Tourists can slowly drive through the majestic road, as they cross famous landmarks like Echo Lake and Flume Gorge. The former is a charming 38-acre body of water at the foot of Cannon Mountain, where one can spend hours fishing, walking, or relaxing. Meanwhile, Flume Gorge stands tall at over 80 feet with walls of Conway granite that extend nearly 800 feet horizontally.

As for activities, there is something for everyone from swimming in Echo Lake to fly fishing for trout in Profile Lake. For a workout, one can head out on one of the many recreational trails for a biking journey, or hike along the short stretch of the 2,000+ mile Appalachian Trail in the park. After all the activities, the Lafayette Place Campground is a great rest stop, with nearly 100 wooded tent sites and many winter camping options. From here, activities like snowboarding and winter hiking are within range during cooler months.

Monadnock State Park

Home to Mount Monadnock, Monadnock State Park is a dream for mountaineers, offering the opportunity to climb one of the most popular summits in the region. The 3,165-foot-tall peak juts out from the forested landscape, rising 2,000 feet above the surrounding landscape. Experienced hikers can choose between a number of trails to climb the peak, including the 110-mile Matacomet-Monadnock Trail, which traverses multiple peaks. It cuts through unique landscapes from waterfalls and cliffs to mountain summits and lakes. That said, black bears are known to inhabit the area, so be aware of your surroundings.

Apart from the mountain, the 1,000 acre park also has other opportunities, allowing one to explore the surroundings forests. Picnicking and camping are among the most popular, and there are multiple campgrounds, including the Monadnock HQ Campground and the Gilson Pond Campground.

Bear Brook State Park

Spread across more than 10,000 acres in southeastern New Hampshire, Bear Brook State Park is the largest developed state park in the state and a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can explore over 40 miles of trails that weave through dense forests, marshes, and ridges, making it a prime spot for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The park also features Bear Hill Pond and Catamount Pond, where activities like swimming, fishing, and paddling offer a refreshing way to enjoy the natural surroundings.

For those who want to extend their stay, Bear Brook offers a variety of camping opportunities, from rustic cabins to wooded campsites. History buffs can stop by the New Hampshire Antique Snowmobile Museum, which displays vintage machines that showcase the state’s winter heritage. Combined with archery ranges, picnic areas, and wildlife sightings ranging from deer to songbirds, Bear Brook State Park provides a mix of recreation and relaxation that highlights the beauty of New Hampshire’s great outdoors.

Pawtuckaway State Park

Last on this list but still full of beautiful charm is Pawtuckaway State Park. Not too far from Bear Brook, this 5,000-acre park is also among the state’s largest, and it shines thanks to Pawtuckaway Lake and its namesake mountains. Together, these contrasting landmarks create a magnificent view and open up plenty of varying recreational activities. For a relaxing time out in the wild, the lake is where you want to be, with its boat launch, swimming beach, playgrounds, and kayak rentals. There are also some hiking trails that offer great viewpoints of the lake.

On the other hand, the mountains abound with over 30 miles of hiking trails, some great for beginners, while others climb up 900 feet to the summits of the Pawtuckaway Mountains. Winters turn these routes into snowmobile trails, while those looking for a faster route can also go bouldering. The park also has nearly 200 campsites and five cabins, so the whole family can witness the night sky.

An Outdoor Adventure In New Hampshire

New Hampshire’s state parks highlight just how much natural variety the Granite State has to offer. Whether climbing Mount Washington's heights, walking through the granite walls of Flume Gorge, or kayaking on Pawtuckaway Lake, each park blends outdoor adventure with moments of calm in striking landscapes. From forested trails and mountain summits to lakeside campsites and historic museums, these five parks showcase why New Hampshire remains a favorite destination for anyone who loves the outdoors.