One of the largest in New Hampshire, this sprawling state park boasts a vivid tapestry of bogs, marshes and drapes of charming, forested expanses. A wonderland for hikers, mountain bikers and equestrians, this 10,000-acre (4046-hectare) park is delightfully cleaved by winding, crisscrossing trails. Home to campgrounds (of which the Bear Brook Camp is part of the National Register of Historic Places) and spaces for archery, the park is traversed by a meandering stream called Bear Brook. The park also harbors a stunning museum ensemble which includes the New Hampshire Antique Snowmobile Museum, Old Allenstown Meeting House, and the Richard Diehl Civilian Conservation Corps Museum. This expanse of wooded wilderness is the crown jewel of New Hampshire.
Mount Sunapee State Park is a serene lakeside state park. The park's beach is famous for its sandy shores and clear waters. Ideal for swimming, the park attracts families in the warmer months, who flock here on weekends. Outdoor enthusiasts can follow the park trails and enjoy an invigorating hike. The Monadock-Sunapee Greenway is located within the park and is connected to the 75-mile (120.7 kilometers) long Sunapee-Ragged-Kearsrge Greenway. The park also features a campground, several picnic areas, and boat and canoe facilities. The adjacent Mount Sunapee Resort is ideal for winter sports activities like skiing.
Mount Sunapee is the perfect getaway for outdoor enthusiasts, with an exciting blend of nature and sports activities. While the resort has been a popular skiing destination since the 1940s, development and addition of facilities over the years has made it a year-round attraction. From picture-perfect ski slopes in the winters to beautiful nature trails showcasing the vibrant hues in autumn, the resort has something for everyone. The onsite Adventure Park featuring a host of activities is also a great draw.
Spread across an area of 4136 acres (1673.7 hectares), Lake Sunapee is set in the western region of New Hampshire. This lake is home to several islands like Elizabeth Island, Great Island, Loon Island, Little Island, Minute Island and many others. It features multiple lighthouses that are part of the National Register of Historic Places. Anglers can find a wide variety of fish like rock bass, smallmouth bass, yellow perch, catfish, and rainbow smelt. Here you can also spot animals like moose, whitetail deer, red foxes, woodchucks, porcupines and many others.
Overlooking Sunapee Beach, Dewey Beach is a popular place to visit during the warm summer months. This sandy beach is equipped with a basketball court, a children’s playground and a picnic area that features sun loungers, parasols and picnic tables. Hike along the walking trails and revel in the picturesque views of the lake. Water sports enthusiasts can indulge in activities like swimming, kayaking and paddle boarding. Visit the on-site store named Shack to stock on snacks and refreshments.
Located in the heart of the city, Livingston Park is one of the best parks in the city if you wish to spend some quality time with your friends or family. The park features amenities such as a baseball field, running track and a playground for the little ones. Visitors can also take a dip in the on-site swimming pool or go for leisurely strolls around a pond. The park is also pet-friendly, so don't forget to bring along your furry companions along. If you are looking for a great place to spend the day with your family without burning a hole in your pocket, then Livingston Park is where you need to be headed.
Bordering the Wellington State Park and the Reed Lighthouse, the Newfound Lake is one of the largest freshwater lakes in New Hampshire. Spread over Bristol, Alexandria, Hebron, and Bridgewater, it is one of the ideal places to view a postcard sunrise and sunset, and its shores are a stopover for several migratory birds. It is one of the main spots for fish farming and research in the area and is home to many diverse marine species as well. The lake is a popular tourist attraction with boating and fishing facilities as well. It is owned and managed by The Newfound Lake Region Association and is known for being one of the most pristine water bodies in the state.
Draped in a blanket of greenery, Ahern State Park offers outdoor enthusiasts a rejuvenating respite amid verdant surrounds. Set against the glistening expanse of Lake Winnisquam, the park can be traversed by the paths meandering through it, which draw avid hikers looking to embark on exhilarating hiking excursions. Featuring a sandy shore, the lake offers recreation options such as fishing, kayaking, and swimming. Other activities to enjoy include mountain biking and picnicking. The park's natural habitats create an inviting environment for a variety of bird species, also making it a great spot for birdwatching.
Nestled on the north face of Mount Kearsarge in New Hampshire, Winslow State Park was established in the year 1935. Hike along the state park’s scenic trails and enjoy the spectacular views of the majestic White Mountains. Some of the trails found here are Winslow Trail and Barlow Trail. A part of the 75-mile (121 kilometers) long Sunapee-Ragged-Kearsarge Greenway passes through this park. This park also features a well-equipped picnic area that is ideal for families and day-trippers.
When in Bristol, take some time out to visit the beautiful Wellington State Park. This park is a popular summer spot thanks to its beautiful freshwater beach along the Newfound Lake. One of the largest in the state, the lake is a favorite with locals for swimming and boating. Within the park, there are plenty of other sports too like volleyball, fishing, and hiking trails. For avid hikers, a trek up the trail will lead you to panoramic views of the Cliff and Bell Islands and the lake itself. Other attractions that are accessible via trails are Welton Falls, Bear Mountain, and Mount Cardigan.
Located close to Harvey Lake, Northwood Meadows State Park covers an area of 674.5 acres (273 hectares). Surrounded by dense woodlands and wetlands, this state park features several hiking trails. Visitors can partake in a number of outdoor activities like fishing, picnicking, boating, biking, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling. This pet-friendly park is a great place to visit for day-trippers. Whether you're seeking a family outing or a solo retreat, Northwood Meadows State Park promises a rejuvenating escape, where the whispers of the forest and the gentle rustle of leaves create a timeless symphony of natural beauty.