More Information: Day-Use
Bear Brook, with over 10,000 acres is the largest developed state park in New Hampshire. Located in the southeast region of the state, there is plenty to do and see for everyone. Hiking, biking, swimming and fishing are a few of the favorites. Forty miles of trails traverse the heavily forested park, leading to seldom visited marshes, bogs, summits and ponds and offer a variety of options for hikers, mountain bikers and equestrians. Canoe rentals are available at Catamount Ponds, while rowboat rentals are also available at Beaver Pond. Fly-fishing enthusiasts will be pleased to know Archery Pond welcomes their specialty and is universally accessible. Across the road from Archery Pond is a special little pond just for children under twelve to fish.

If archery is your sport you might already know that Bear Brook boasts the only two archery ranges in the state park system. One 15-target range is maintained by the N.H. Fish and Game Department, plus an additional 4-target practice range that is universally accessible. (Bring your own archery equipment.)

Worried about no workouts or aerobics while on vacation? You can stay in shape by using the park's 1 1/4 mile, twenty-station fitness course that is fun for the whole family. A charge for admission is collected at the toll booth near Catamount Pond.

Pets: Leashed pets are permitted in the campground on the trails only, not in the day-use area. Service animals are exempt from this policy.

Camping
The campground is remotely located on the shore of Beaver Pond, five miles from the day-use area. Canoe and rowboat rentals, as well as showers and laundry facilities, are available. A camp store offers a selection of camping supplies, ice, wood, and snacks. Located adjacent to the campground is a small beach and swimming area reserved for campers only. Pets are permitted at this campground, but must be leashed and attended at all times. The 95-site campground includes 93 sites available by reservation only, and 2 for first-come/first-served campers. Although hook-ups are not available, RVs are welcome in sites where they fit.

Museum Complex
For those interested in learning more about our natural and human history , a trip to the museum complex, located in the park, one-half mile from the toll booth, is a must. The 4-H Nature Center features exhibits of the natural history of the park. Interpretive programs are regularly throughout the summer season. Also located in the museum complex are the New Hampshire Antique Snowmobile Museum, Museum of Family Camping, Old Allenstown Meeting House, and the Richard Diehl Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) Museum. Most of the museums are housed in historic CCC buildings. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Bear Brook Camp is one of the most complete camps remaining intact and in use in the country. The museums are open at various times throughout the summer. The Museum of Family Camping is open daily from late May through mid-October.

Group-Use
Bear Brook is a popular group destination with many ponds, streams and trails for exploration. Enjoy the museum complex, swimming, canoeing and fishing. The 95-site campground offers a camp store, canoe and rowboat rentals, showers, laundry facilities, a dump station, ice and firewood. Reservations for organized youth group camping may be made by calling 603-271-3628, Monday through Friday, from January through mid-October. The shelter, located in the day-use area of the park, may be reserved for group picnics and outings by calling the park directly, at 603-485-9874. A ball field, barbecue pit, horseshoe area, nearby trails, wooded surrounds and isolation from other park visitors make it a great spot for family reunions, class picnics and office outings.

Important: This information was posted on May 6, 2008 and all information, services and fees are subject to change. For current information you may wish to call 603-271-3556 or contact the park directly.

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