🌤 Weather at Otter Brook State Park by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20–69 °F | 51–82 °F | 27–73 °F | 10–36 °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 Keene, 5 mi away, elevation 511 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
🏆 Official Guide: Otter Brook State Park — A scenic recreation area managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in Keene/Roxbury, New Hampshire — featuring fishing (brook trout, rainbow trout, bass, perch), a boat ramp (no-wake), hiking trails through forest and wetlands, picnic areas with shelters, disc golf, and winter activities including ice fishing, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing.
Otter Brook State Park is a quiet, nature-focused recreation area built around a flood-control reservoir in the rolling hills of southwestern New Hampshire. While the swimming beach is permanently closed, the park remains a valued destination for anglers (trout-stocked waters), paddlers, hikers, and winter recreationists. The wooded setting and diverse habitats make it an excellent spot for wildlife observation year-round.
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Keene/Roxbury, NH — Route 9 |
| Managed By | U.S. Army Corps of Engineers |
| Access | Walk-in when gate closed — check status before visiting |
| Swimming | ⚠️ Beach permanently closed |
| Fishing | State-stocked trout + warmwater species |
| Boating | Boat ramp — kayaks, canoes, rowboats, motors (no-wake) |
Activities
| Activity | Details |
|---|---|
| Fishing | Brook trout, rainbow trout, chain pickerel, perch, bass |
| Boating | Boat ramp — kayaks, canoes, motorboats (no-wake) |
| Hiking | Woodland + wetland trails — wildlife viewing |
| Picnicking | Tables + grills — shelter available (when open) |
| Disc Golf | Course on-site |
| Bird Watching | Diverse habitats — forest, wetlands, open fields |
| Ice Fishing | Winter — popular on frozen lake |
| Cross-Country Skiing | Winter trails |
| Snowshoeing | Winter access on trails |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still swim at Otter Brook?
No — the swimming beach has been permanently closed. The park is best visited for fishing, paddling, hiking, and winter recreation.
What kind of fish can I catch?
The state stocks Otter Brook with brook trout and rainbow trout. The lake also supports chain pickerel, yellow perch, and bass. Ice fishing is popular in winter. A valid New Hampshire fishing license is required.
Keep exploring: The closest neighbors are Mount Monadnock State Park (a short drive away) and Monadnock State Park (a short drive away).
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Otter Brook State Park
- 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 Otter Brook State Park?
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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