Bear Brook State Park
Available Activities
  • Hiking
  • Camping
  • Mountain Biking
  • Archery
  • RV
  • Cabins
  • Museum
Verified by America’s State Parks Editorial Team – Updated February 2026

Bear Brook State Park is New Hampshire’s largest developed state park at over 10,000 acres! With 40+ miles of trails for hiking and mountain biking, a 15-target archery course, 101 campsites, cabins, and a museum complex featuring one of the most intact CCC camps in America, this is an outdoor recreation paradise just 15 miles from Concord.

Trail System

Trail FactsDetails
📏 Total Miles40+ miles
🚴 Mountain BikingAll skill levels!
🥾 HikingWoods, foundations, chimneys
E-BikesClass 1 & 2 allowed (designated trails)
🏛️ HistoryOld town ruins along trails

Archery

Archery FacilitiesDetails
🎯 Woodland Course15 targets
🎯 Practice Range4 targets (ADA accessible!)
🏹 EquipmentBring your own

Camping & Cabins

CampingDetails
Beaver Pond Campground101 sites (tents/trailers/RVs)
🏕️ Site AmenitiesPicnic table, fire ring, grate
🏠 CabinsBear Hill Pond
🚿 FacilitiesStore, water, flush toilets, hot showers (fee)
🚮 RVDump station

ℹ️ Seasonal Note

Campground typically closed through April 30. Park open year-round but may be unstaffed off-season (portable toilets provided).

Museum Complex

MuseumsFocus
🏛️ CCC MuseumRichard Diehl collection—one of most complete CCC camps in USA!
🛷 Antique Snowmobile MuseumNH Antique Snowmobile collection
Old Allenstown Meeting HouseHistoric building

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Bear Brook really NH’s largest park?

Bear Brook is New Hampshire’s largest DEVELOPED state park at over 10,000 acres. While some undeveloped state lands may be larger by acreage, Bear Brook has the most extensive recreational facilities and trail network.

What’s special about the CCC Museum?

The CCC camp at Bear Brook is noted as one of the most complete and intact CCC camps remaining in the United States. The Richard Diehl CCC Museum, housed in original CCC buildings, documents this Depression-era conservation program. Open Sundays in summer (10 AM – 4 PM).

How are the trails for mountain biking?

Excellent! Over 40 miles of trails wind through scenic woods with options for all skill levels. You’ll find both double and single tracks, with interesting historical features like old stone foundations and chimneys from abandoned towns. Class 1 and 2 e-bikes are permitted on designated MTB trails.

Can I use the archery range without my own equipment?

No. You must bring your own archery equipment. The park offers a 15-target woodland course and a 4-target practice range (which is ADA accessible). Equipment is not provided.

Is the park open year-round?

Yes! The park is open year-round for recreation unless specific closures are posted. However, the campground is typically closed through April 30. Off-season, the park may be unstaffed and comfort stations may be closed (portable toilets provided).

🏹 New Hampshire’s Recreation Giant

Explore 40+ miles of trails, 15-target archery course, and a historic CCC museum complex. Visit the official Bear Brook State Park website for camping reservations.

Explore More New Hampshire State Parks

Bear Brook State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in New Hampshire. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in New Hampshire guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.

Sarah Mitchell

About the Author

Outdoor Editor & Trail Expert

Sarah Mitchell is an outdoor writer and trail researcher with over 8 years of experience exploring state parks across America. As the lead editor at AmericasStateParks.org, she has personally visited more than 200 parks in 42 states, logging thousands of trail miles and hundreds of campground nights. Sarah specializes in detailed park guides, accessibility information, and family-friendly outdoor planning. Her work focuses on helping first-time visitors feel confident and well-prepared for their state park adventures.

200+ state parks visited across 42 states | 8+ years of outdoor writing

Last updated: February 20, 2026

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