🌤 Weather at Merrimack River State Forest by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 22–67 °F | 51–80 °F | 29–71 °F | 13–36 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Salisbury, 5 mi away, elevation 550 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
Merrimack River State Forest is a public state park in New Hampshire near Boscawen in Merrimack County. The park offers a peaceful retreat into nature for visitors of all ages.
Quick Facts
| State | New Hampshire |
| Nearest City | Boscawen |
| County | Merrimack County |
Location & Getting There
Merrimack River State Forest is located near Boscawen, New Hampshire. The park’s coordinates are 43.3367, -71.6362.
Things to Do
New Hampshire state parks capture the rugged essence of New England, featuring the towering peaks of the White Mountains, pristine glacial lakes, and a brief but beautiful stretch of Atlantic coastline. Visitors can hike some of the most challenging and rewarding trails in the Northeast, including sections of the Appalachian Trail, swim in crystal-clear mountain lakes or ocean surf, camp in deep forest settings, fly fish for trout in fast-moving streams, and rock climb dramatic granite notches. The parks also encompass historic sites, including grand resort-era estates and early American settlements.
Best Time to Visit
Fall (late September to mid-October) is the most famous time to visit, drawing “leaf peepers” from around the world to witness the spectacular autumn colors in the White Mountains. Summer (July–August) is peak season for lakes and coastal beaches, offering warm days and cool nights. Winter turns the mountain parks into destinations for downhill and cross-country skiing, ice climbing, and snowmobiling. Spring (May–June) brings black flies (“bug season”) and muddy trails at higher elevations, though it’s excellent for waterfall viewing.
Visitor Tips
New Hampshire state parks charge day-use admission fees, typically $4-$5 per adult and $2 for children, though coastal beaches charge parking fees instead. Advanced day-use reservations are strongly recommended (and sometimes required) for popular parks like Franconia Notch (Flume Gorge) and Monadnock, especially on summer and fall weekends, as parking lots fill early. Weather in the White Mountains is notoriously unpredictable and can change rapidly — always carry layers and check the Mount Washington Observatory forecast before hiking at elevation.
Explore More New Hampshire State Parks
Merrimack River State Forest 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.
Wildlife & Nature
Merrimack River State Forest — along the Merrimack River in Canterbury/Boscawen — provides access to New Hampshire’s major river corridor. The Merrimack — formed by the confluence of the Pemigewasset and Winnipesaukee Rivers in Franklin — flows 117 miles to the Atlantic. Bald eagles nest along the river. Osprey dive for fish. Great blue herons wade the shallows. Striped bass have returned to the lower Merrimack.
Nearby Attractions
Canterbury Shaker Village — 5 miles east — is one of America’s best-preserved Shaker communities. Concord — 10 miles south — is the state capital. Franklin — 5 miles north — has the Daniel Webster Birthplace. Franklin Falls Dam — nearby — has recreation areas.
Keep exploring: The closest neighbors are Hannah Duston Memorial State Historic Site (a short drive away) and Daniel Webster Birthplace State Historic Site (a short drive away).
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Merrimack River State Forest
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Many NH state parks allow pets year-round, but policies vary by park and some parks prohibit pets entirely.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- Standard or retractable leash not greater than 6 feet required; animals may not be left unattended.
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Pets are prohibited at beaches and designated swim areas seasonally from May 1 through September 30.
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Pets are permitted at 13 campgrounds (including Bear Brook, Coleman, Greenfield, Lake Francis, Milan, Mollidgewock, Moose Brook, Pawtuckaway, Pillsbury, Sunapee and Umbagog); cabin/yurt rules vary by park — check before booking.
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Monadnock, North Hampton State Beach, Odiorne Point and most of Rhododendron State Park prohibit pets year-round; Crawford Notch, Franconia Notch and Mount Washington allow pets only on hiking trails and designated dog-walk areas.
Are dogs allowed at Merrimack River State Forest?
Many NH state parks allow pets year-round, but policies vary by park and some parks prohibit pets entirely. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via nhstateparks.org. More: New Hampshire state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
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