New Hampshire’s natural beauty is known the world over – from the White Mountains to the Seacoast to the Lakes Region, the variety and splendor of our landscape are hard to beat. That said, a few of the more prominent state parks tend to take most of the credit (and media and tourist attention). But don’t be afraid to step off the beaten path at these under-appreciated state parks to visit in New Hampshire where you’ll find stunning scenery with far fewer crowds.

1. Ahern State Park, Laconia
43 Great Bay Lane, Laconia, NH 03246, USA
Google/Keith Nason
Most people would never guess that there's a gorgeous, peaceful state park in bustling Laconia – but Ahern State Park is a real gem. With 3,500 feet of shoreline on Lake Winnisquam, it's a great place to swim or raft, and there are some lovely walking trails to explore. It's even dog-friendly! Do be aware that facilities are limited here – there's just a port-a-potty and you'll have to take a dirt road to get to the park, but we think that's part of the charm. Amazingly, it never seems to get crowded. You can find the park at 43 Great Bay Lane, Laconia, NH, 03246, and learn more on the New Hampshire State Parks website.
2. Moose Brook State Park, Gorham
30 Jimtown Rd, Gorham, NH 03581, USA
Google/Migdalia Wharton
Just north of the Presidential Range, this park has absolutely stunning scenery plus river frontage and a gorgeous swimming area. Plenty of hiking trails in New Hampshire can be found here as well as 59 campsites. Find it at 30 Jimtown Road, Gorham, NH, 03581, and learn more on the New Hampshire State Parks website.
3. Coleman State Park, Stewartstown
1166 Diamond Pond Rd, Stewartstown, NH 03576, USA
Google/Pamela LaPrell
If you're looking for a state park that offers numerous things to do outside in New Hamshire, Coleman State Park is an excellent option. This North Country gem is beloved by fishermen and ATV riders, and for good reason – there is incredible trout fishing, and trails where you can ride ATVs right out of the campsites. You can rent boats and snowshoes and there are 25 campsites, including several cabins. Find it at 1166 Diamond Pond Road, Stewartstown, NH, 03576, and learn more on the New Hampshire State Parks website.
4. Greenfield State Park, Greenfield
973 Forest Rd, Greenfield, NH 03047, USA
Google/John M Peterson
This 400-acre park includes lakeshore, bogs, forest, and plenty of charm. There are 256 campsites at this huge park and even a store where you can buy any needed supplies. You can rent boats here, too! Visit at 52 Campground Road, Greenfield, NH, 03047, and learn more on the New Hampshire State Parks website.

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5. Lake Francis State Park, Pittsburg
439 River Rd, Pittsburg, NH 03592, USA
Google/Ankit Srivastava
Lake Francis is one of the best state parks in New Hampshire. Considered a jewel with 2,000 acres of sparkling water fed by the Connecticut River, this park offers plenty of trails and is an ideal base for hunting and fishing. Visit at 439 River Road, Pittsburg, NH, 03592, and learn more on the New Hampshire State Parks website.
6. Mollidgewock State Park, Errol
Berlin Road, Berlin Rd, Errol, NH, USA
Google/Steve Girard
On the shores of the Androscoggin River, this gorgeous park is perfect for kayaking and canoeing if you're looking for things to do outside in New Hampshire. It's also a great spot to see some moose in the wild! Visit at 1437 Berlin Rd, Errol, NH, 03579, and learn more in our previous coverage.
7. White Lake State Park, Tamworth
1632 White Mountain Hwy, Tamworth, NH 03886, USA
Google/Austin Dow
This park is full of ancient history – White Lake was formed by glaciers many eons ago. The beach definitely gets more crowded on the weekends, but visit on a weekday and walk the paths around the lake for a taste of bliss. It's one of the best state parks to visit in New Hampshire. Visit at 94 State Park Rd, Tamworth, NH, 03886, and learn more in our previous coverage.
8. Northwood Meadows State Park, Northwood
755 1st New Hampshire Turnpike, Northwood, NH 03261, USA
Google/Nicha Michael
As one of the most beautiful state parks to visit in New Hampshire, it is still very much a wild place with forest and wetlands. It's a gorgeous place to explore! Find it at 755 First NH Turnpike, Northwood, NH, 03261, and learn more New Hampshire State Parks website.

What are your favorite state parks to visit in New Hampshire? Tell us in the comments!

And if you’re looking for an easy hike for the whole family, we have just the thing.

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More to Explore

State Parks To Visit In New Hampshire

Melissa M. | February 21, 2022

What is the largest state park in New Hampshire?

With 13,300 acres, Pisgah State Park in Winchester is the largest of New Hampshire’s State Parks. Not only will you find plenty of scenery but remnants of the state’s past like a cemetery and ruins of houses. It’s a remarkable state park to explore!

Where can I find some of the best hiking trails in New Hampshire?

If you live in New Hampshire, chances are that you are the outdoorsy type. And if you enjoy hiking, you can try one of these scenic trails that are perfect for most fitness levels. Take the Old Bridle Path in Center Sandwich for stunning views of Squam Lake from an overlook above. Or how about the short-but-sweet Chesterfield Gorge State Wayside Trail? At 0.6 miles, you’ll experience the gorge along this well-maintained trail.

What are some of the best things to do outside in New Hampshire?

Aside from hiking, the Granite State offers plenty of outdoor sites and recreation. One idea is to seek out one of the state’s natural wonders that you can actually visit for free! Visit places like Cathedral Ledge in North Conway or Beaverbrook Falls in Colebrook without opening your wallet.

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