
Bear Brook State Park New Hampshire
Massive forested park with hiking, biking, Nordic skiing, archery, and historic museums. Features lakes with beaches and boat rentals.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Cooler temps, fewer crowds

Bear Brook State Park New Hampshire
Best Time
Cooler temps, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Massive forested park with hiking, biking, Nordic skiing, archery, and historic museums. Features lakes with beaches and boat rentals.
"A great little getaway with great hiking, fishing, and plenty for the little ones to do."

Pack for the elements
Bring layers, as weather can change. Comfortable shoes are a must for exploring the trails! :athletic_shoe:
Boat rentals available
Fairly priced boat rentals make for a fun day on Bear Hill Pond. :rowboat:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Hiking Trails
Throughout the park
Explore miles of scenic trails suitable for all skill levels, from gentle walks to more challenging routes.

Bear Hill Pond
Central lake
Enjoy swimming at the small beaches or rent a boat for a relaxing day on the water.

Archery Range
Designated area
Test your aim at the park's archery range, a unique activity for visitors.

Historic Museums
Various locations
Discover the park's past through its historic museums and exhibits.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Outdoors
Family Fun Focus
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Which state parks are the best for beginning hikers?
Pack for the elements
Bring layers, as weather can change. Comfortable shoes are a must for exploring the trails! :athletic_shoe:
Boat rentals available
Fairly priced boat rentals make for a fun day on Bear Hill Pond. :rowboat:
Planning an afternoon trip into southern New Hampshire over the weekend to see Fall colors and get a small taste of the State. Any recommendations on 'must see' places for a short trip?
New Hampshire Mountain Bike Scene
Cabin upgrades noted
Cabins have seen recent upgrades, including a community room with games. :housewithgarden:
Camp store hours vary
The Bear Hill camp store may be closed during weekdays; plan accordingly for wood and ice. :shopping_cart:
Fishing friends
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack for the elements
Bring layers, as weather can change. Comfortable shoes are a must for exploring the trails! :athletic_shoe:
Boat rentals available
Fairly priced boat rentals make for a fun day on Bear Hill Pond. :rowboat:
Cabin upgrades noted
Cabins have seen recent upgrades, including a community room with games. :housewithgarden:
Camp store hours vary
The Bear Hill camp store may be closed during weekdays; plan accordingly for wood and ice. :shopping_cart:
Family-friendly amenities
Plenty of playgrounds and activity areas make it great for kids. :child:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Bear Brook State Park is widely praised as a beautiful and family-friendly destination, offering a great mix of outdoor activities like hiking, swimming, and boating. Visitors appreciate the well-maintained trails and the pleasant atmosphere, especially for those with children. Some minor inconveniences include varying camp store hours and the need to be prepared for sites without hookups.
"Today we visited Bear Brook State Park in New Hampshire. It is very beautiful there, there are several parking areas, lakes with small beaches, playgrounds, a small store. There are many hiking and biking trails."
Olga Andriuc
"This is our 4th year coming here and if you are looking for a great little get away. Bear brook has great hiking, fishing,and their rent boats are fairly priced and plenty for the little ones to do. Has playground, large soccer/badminton field, wood,ice,small accessories in the shop and a helpful staff"
Ashley Vinson
"We’ve stayed at the cabins now, a third time and there have been so many upgrades. There is now a community room available with games and ping pong, and there is actually a small store at Bear Hill! It is a 20 minute drive to get to the campground store to buy wood and ice. Oh and that’s one direction. The Bear Hill camp store was open on the Saturday & Sunday and probably closed during the week. So many great trails. The pond is so beautiful. The cabins are clean! I’m telling the truth. After 4 years abs 3 stays, the cabins have always been clean upon arrival. We keep them clean too."
Tina Filardo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bear Brook State Park is located in Allenstown, New Hampshire. It's accessible by car via NH-28. Many visitors use GPS navigation systems. Parking is available at various lots throughout the park.
Public transportation options directly to Bear Brook State Park are limited. It is best accessed by private vehicle.
From Southern NH, you'll typically take routes leading towards Allenstown. For example, from the Derry area, you might take NH-28 North. Always check real-time traffic conditions before you leave.
Yes, Bear Brook State Park has multiple parking areas and access points, which can be convenient depending on which part of the park you wish to explore first.
The park is generally well-signed, with clear indications for different activity areas like trails, beaches, and campgrounds.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is typically an entrance fee for Bear Brook State Park, especially during peak season. Fees can vary, so it's best to check the official New Hampshire State Parks website for current pricing.
The park is generally open year-round, but specific facilities like campgrounds, beaches, and stores have seasonal hours. It's advisable to check the official website for the most up-to-date information on operating hours for all amenities.
Yes, booking campsites and cabins in advance is highly recommended, especially during the summer months and on weekends. Reservations can usually be made through the New Hampshire State Parks reservation system.
Information on discounts, such as for seniors or military personnel, is usually available on the New Hampshire State Parks website. Annual passes may also be an option for frequent visitors.
Day-use visitors pay an entrance fee upon arrival. The park offers various areas for picnicking, hiking, and enjoying the natural surroundings.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Bear Brook State Park offers several trails suitable for beginners. Many of the trails around Bear Hill Pond are relatively flat and well-maintained, providing scenic views without strenuous climbs.
Yes, Bear Hill Pond features small beaches where visitors can swim. Lifeguards may be on duty during peak season, but it's always wise to check for posted advisories.
The park is very family-friendly, with multiple playgrounds, open fields for games like soccer or badminton, and the accessible Bear Hill Pond for gentle water play.
Absolutely! Bear Brook State Park offers boat rentals on Bear Hill Pond, which are described as fairly priced and a great activity for families.
Yes, Bear Brook State Park has a dedicated archery range. It's a unique activity that many visitors enjoy.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There is a small store at Bear Hill that sells wood, ice, and small accessories. However, for full meals, visitors typically need to bring their own food or dine at nearby establishments outside the park.
Yes, picnicking is a popular activity. There are many scenic spots throughout the park, and some campsites and cabin areas are equipped for outdoor dining.
The Bear Hill camp store offers basic necessities like wood and ice, and potentially some small snacks or accessories. It's not a full-service grocery or restaurant.
Some campsites and cabin areas may be equipped with grills. It's best to check the specific amenities for your reserved site or cabin.
Allenstown and nearby towns like Concord offer a variety of restaurants, from casual diners to more formal dining experiences.
📸 📸 Photography
Bear Hill Pond offers beautiful reflections and scenic views, especially during sunrise and sunset. The hiking trails provide opportunities to capture forest landscapes and wildlife.
While not a primary wildlife sanctuary, the park's forested areas and ponds can offer chances to photograph birds, small mammals, and other local fauna. Early mornings and late afternoons are often best.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm or similar) is great for landscapes and general shots. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing expansive forest scenes. Consider a telephoto lens if you hope to photograph distant wildlife.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require special permits. Always check park regulations.
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer the most flattering light for photography at Bear Hill Pond, creating beautiful colors and soft shadows.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the water and play areas, the park's numerous hiking trails include many that are gentle and easy for little legs to manage. The overall atmosphere is very welcoming to children, with plenty of open space for games and exploration. Consider booking a cabin for a comfortable stay, as they've been upgraded and offer a great base for family adventures.
🚶♀️ Beginning Hikers
These beginner-friendly paths allow you to enjoy the park's natural charm, including its forested areas and water views, at your own pace. It's a great place to build confidence before tackling more challenging hikes elsewhere. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring water! :athleticshoe: :waterwave:
🏕️ Campers & RVers
For those seeking more comfort, the upgraded cabins are a popular choice. They offer a cozy retreat after a day of exploring. Be aware that the camp store's hours can be limited, so planning ahead for essentials like firewood and ice is a smart move.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Bear Brook's Trails
More experienced hikers can explore longer loops and more challenging terrain deeper within the park's forested areas. The park's description as a 'massive forested park' hints at the variety of woodland scenery you can expect. Remember to wear appropriate footwear, as some trails can be uneven or rocky.
Beyond hiking, the park also offers opportunities for Nordic skiing in the winter months, transforming the landscape into a snowy wonderland for cross-country enthusiasts. This seasonal versatility makes Bear Brook a year-round destination for outdoor adventurers.
Family Adventures at Bear Brook
The park also offers boat rentals on Bear Hill Pond, which are described as fairly priced and a hit with the little ones. This adds another layer of fun for families looking to spend time on the water. The availability of open fields for activities like soccer or badminton further enhances the family-friendly atmosphere, ensuring there's always something to keep everyone engaged.
For those considering an overnight stay, the cabins at Bear Brook have seen significant upgrades, including a community room with games. This makes it an even more appealing option for families seeking comfortable accommodation with built-in entertainment.
Camping and Cabin Stays
The cabins have received positive mentions for their cleanliness and comfort, with recent upgrades enhancing the guest experience. These cabins are often situated with nice views, such as overlooking the pond, and provide easy access to wash stations and toilets. The addition of a community room with games is a notable perk for cabin guests.
It's worth noting that while there's a small store at Bear Hill, it may have limited hours, and a more substantial store for essentials like wood and ice might be a 20-minute drive away. Planning ahead for supplies is advisable, especially if you're staying in a cabin or campsite further from the main facilities.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit