Pawtuckaway State Park
Pawtuckaway State Park is a popular New Hampshire destination centered on a large glacial lake, sandy beaches, and a rugged landscape of boulders, forests, and wetlands. Visitors come for swimming, boating, fishing, camping, and exploring the park’s scenic backcountry and wildlife-rich shoreline.
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Visiting with Dogs
Dogs allowed in designated areas; keep leashed at all times, clean up after pets, and follow posted restrictions.
Visitor Tips & Reviews
What Visitors Say
Visitors love Pawtuckaway State Park for its scenic lake, hiking trails, boulder fields, camping, kayaking, and peaceful wooded setting, though some note busy weekends and limited amenities.
Tips from Visitors
- Arrive early on weekends for easier parking and quieter trails.
- Bring bug spray; mosquitoes can be heavy near wetlands.
- Check trail conditions before hiking after rain or snow.
- Carry plenty of water, especially on longer ridge hikes.
- Use designated swimming areas and follow posted safety rules.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Pawtuckaway State Park is late spring through early fall, when the lake is warm enough for swimming and boating and the campground is fully open. Autumn is especially beautiful for foliage, while summer weekends are busiest.
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
Explore these attractions near Pawtuckaway State Park:
- Pawtuckaway LakeA large glacial lake within the park offering swimming, boating, and fishing opportunities.Within the park
- Mendums PondA quiet nearby pond popular for paddling, fishing, and wildlife viewing.6 miles away
- Great Bay National Wildlife RefugeA protected coastal habitat area with opportunities for birdwatching and nature observation.18 miles away
Things to Do at Pawtuckaway State Park
Camping at Pawtuckaway State Park
Pawtuckaway offers tent and RV camping with some electric sites, restrooms, showers, fire rings, and reservations required.
Hiking Trails
Pawtuckaway State Park offers a rewarding day hike with a mix of moderate trails, rocky climbs, and scenic viewpoints. Hikers often enjoy the Fire Tower Trail for broad summit views, plus the park’s unique boulder fields and forested paths. Trails are well-marked but can be rugged and rooty in places, making sturdy footwear a good idea.
South Mountain Trail
moderateA popular loop with steady climbs, rocky sections, and rewarding views from South Mountain and nearby ledges.
North Mountain Trail
moderateA scenic route that climbs to the park's northern high points, featuring forested terrain, boulders, and occasional viewpoints.
Pawtuckaway Fire Tower Trail
easyA shorter hike to the fire tower area with a manageable climb and broad park views from the summit vicinity.
Fundy Trail to Boulder Field
moderateA longer loop through classic Pawtuckaway terrain, including rugged granite boulders, mixed woods, and lake-adjacent scenery.
Directions
From Route 101, take Exit 5 and follow NH-156 south to Mountain Road in Nottingham. Enter the park on Mountain Road and follow signs to the beach, campground, or boat launch.
Contact & Info
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular things to do at Pawtuckaway State Park?
Visitors commonly come for hiking, swimming, camping, kayaking, and especially boulder scrambling in the park’s unique glacial boulder field. The fire tower hike is also a favorite for views.
Is Pawtuckaway State Park good for families?
Yes. Many visitors say it’s a great family park because it has a beach, easy-to-moderate trails, picnic areas, and camping. Families often enjoy the calm lake and shorter hikes.
How difficult are the hiking trails at Pawtuckaway State Park?
Trail difficulty varies. Some paths are easy and scenic, while others are rocky, steep, or involve scrambling over boulders. Reviews often mention that good footwear is important, especially for the North and South Mountain trails.
Can you swim at Pawtuckaway State Park?
Yes, there is a designated swimming beach on the lake. Visitors often describe it as a nice spot for cooling off in summer, though it can get busy on warm weekends.
Is Pawtuckaway State Park crowded?
It can be, especially on summer weekends and holidays. Many visitors recommend arriving early for parking, the beach, or popular trails. Weekdays are usually quieter.
What should I bring when visiting Pawtuckaway State Park?
Bring sturdy shoes, water, bug spray, and swim gear if you plan to use the beach. Hikers often recommend a map or GPS, since some trails and boulder areas can be confusing.
Don’t Forget the Essentials
Essential camping & hiking gear we recommend to make your park trip easier and more comfortable.
View Gear Checklist →