Lake Francis State Park
United States

Lake Francis State Park

439 River Road, Pittsburg, NH 03592
Available Activities
  • Camping
  • Fishing
  • Boating
  • Nature Center

At the very tip of New Hampshire, where the wilderness grows thick and the night skies are vast, Lake Francis State Park offers a frontier-style escape. Situated on the shores of the 2,000-acre Lake Francis in the remote town of Pittsburg, this park is a gateway to the Great North Woods — a region teeming with moose, eagles, and the spirit of true adventure.

ATV Paradise

Connect to over 1,000 miles of ATV and off-road trails in Coos County, making it a premier basecamp for riders.

Trophy Trout

Fish for brook, rainbow, and lake trout in the pristine waters of Lake Francis and the upper Connecticut River.

Dark Sky Haven

Far from civilization’s glow, the park offers some of the best stargazing opportunities in all of New England.


Gateway to the Great North Woods

Lake Francis State Park is the definition of “getting away from it all.” The surrounding region is New Hampshire’s largest town by area yet one of its least populated, creating a feeling of true solitude. Moose sightings are a daily occurrence, and bald eagles circle overhead. The lake itself is fed by the Connecticut River, offering calm, expansive waters ideal for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing from your boat.

Off-Grid Advisory

Cell service is extremely limited to nonexistent. An emergency pay phone is available at the park office. Come prepared and self-sufficient.

Camping and Winter Sports

The campground features 45 sites, including waterfront locations and spots with electric hookups specifically designed for ATV campers. Modern amenities like hot showers and laundry facilities ensure comfort. When winter blankets the region in snow, the trails transform into a snowmobiler’s dream, linking to hundreds of miles of groomed corridors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the park open year-round?

The campground is open from Memorial Day weekend through Veterans Day. Running water may not be available after mid-October due to freezing conditions.

Can I launch a boat here?

Yes, a public boat launch is available on-site with direct access to Lake Francis and the upper Connecticut River.

Are there moose?

Absolutely — Pittsburg is known as the “Moose Capital” of New Hampshire. Sightings are common, especially at dawn and dusk.

State Parks Team
Written by

State Parks Team

Editorial Team

The State Parks Team is a group of outdoor enthusiasts, researchers, and travel writers dedicated to showcasing America's state parks. Drawing on collective experience visiting parks in all 50 states, the team creates detailed guides, curated park lists, and practical tips to help visitors make the most of their state park adventures. Our mission: making America's state parks accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

Last updated: February 20, 2026