Bear Brook State Park
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 Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| 📏 Total Miles | 40+ miles |
| 🚴 Mountain Biking | All skill levels! |
| 🥾 Hiking | Woods, foundations, chimneys |
| ⚡ E-Bikes | Class 1 & 2 allowed (designated trails) |
| 🏛️ History | Old town ruins along trails |
Archery
| Archery Facilities | Details |
|---|---|
| 🎯 Woodland Course | 15 targets |
| 🎯 Practice Range | 4 targets (ADA accessible!) |
| 🏹 Equipment | Bring your own |
Camping & Cabins
| Camping | Details |
|---|---|
| ⛺ Beaver Pond Campground | 101 sites (tents/trailers/RVs) |
| 🏕️ Site Amenities | Picnic table, fire ring, grate |
| 🏠 Cabins | Bear Hill Pond |
| 🚿 Facilities | Store, water, flush toilets, hot showers (fee) |
| 🚮 RV | Dump 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
| Museums | Focus |
|---|---|
| 🏛️ CCC Museum | Richard Diehl collection—one of most complete CCC camps in USA! |
| 🛷 Antique Snowmobile Museum | NH Antique Snowmobile collection |
| ⛪ Old Allenstown Meeting House | Historic 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.
