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New Hampshire
5

New Hampshire State Parks

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USA Parks
New Hampshire
Merrimack Valley Region
Davisville State Forest
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DAVISVILLE STATE FOREST
DAVISVILLE STATE FOREST
Davisville State Forest, nestled in the scenic landscapes of New Hampshire, enchants visitors with its rustic charm and abundant natural beauty. Spread across acres of lush greenery, this forest offers a diverse range of outdoor activities and captivating sights to explore. Towering pine and oak trees create a serene atmosphere as hiking trails wind through the wilderness, revealing expansive meadows carpeted with vibrant wildflowers and babbling brooks where one can pause to soak in the tranquility. Nature enthusiasts will be delighted by the diverse wildlife that calls this forest home, from elusive deer and foxes to colorful birds flitting through the treetops. With its idyllic scenery, Davisville State Forest is a haven for those seeking solace in the enchanting embrace of nature.
History of the Area
The land that is now Davisville State Forest was originally part of the town of Davisville, which was settled in the early 1800s. The town's economy primarily revolved around agriculture, with dairy farming being particularly prominent. However, by the late 19th century, the population began to decline, and the town was eventually disincorporated in 1867.

Following the disincorporation of Davisville, the land was left vacant for several decades. In 1911, the state of New Hampshire acquired approximately 125 acres of the former town as part of efforts to establish state forests and protect natural resources. This acquisition marked the creation of Davisville State Forest.

The forest, which consists of mixed hardwoods and conifers, was primarily managed for sustainable timber production in its early years. The logging activities helped maintain the health and vitality of the forest while also providing a valuable source of revenue for the state.

Over time, the management focus of Davisville State Forest shifted towards multiple-use recreation and conservation. Today, the forest offers various recreational opportunities, including hiking, wildlife watching, and picnicking. It is also a popular spot for hunting during designated seasons.

Conservation efforts have led to the expansion of the state forest. Additional parcels of land were acquired, increasing the size of the forest to around 920 acres. These acquisitions allowed for better protection of the ecologically significant areas within the forest, as well as providing more opportunities for outdoor recreation.
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Area Campgrounds
Cold Springs Camp Resort
62 Barnard Hill Road
Weare, NH
603-529-2528
Sandy Beach RV Resort
677 Clement Hill Road
Contoocook, NH
603-746-3591
Thousand Acres Family Campground
Route 3 1079 South Main Street
Franklin, NH
603-934-4440
Sandy Beach Campground
677 Clement Hill Road
Hopkinton, NH
603-746-3591
Keyser Pond Campground
1739 Old Concord Road
Henniker, NH
603-428-7741
Spacious Skies French Pond
479 Old W Hopkinton Road
Henniker, NH
603-995-4133
Area Fishing Related Businesses
Sunset Mountain Fish & Game Club
117 West Rd
Canterbury, NH
(603) 783-0454
Bear Hill Motel & Rentals
85 Contoocook Falls Rd
Hillsborough, NH
(603) 464-3444
Morse Sporting Goods
85 Contoocook Falls Rd
Hillsborough, NH
(603) 464-3444

Directions
1. Start by heading north on I:93 N.
2. Take exit 17 for US:4 E/US-3 S toward Boscawen/Penacook.
3. Merge onto US:4 E/US-3 S and continue for approximately 6 miles.
4. Keep left at the fork to stay on US Route 3 South towards Concord/Bow/Memorial Bridge/Downtown Penacook.
5. Continue straight onto Fisherville Rd/Fisherville Road Extension (signs for NH Route 28).
6. After about a mile, turn right onto Village St/NH Route 28S (follow signs for Pittsfield/Epsom).
7. Continue on NH Route 28S until you reach Barnstead Rd/NH Rt:126 W; take a slight left here.
8. Follow this road as it becomes Catamount Hill Rd/Catamount Road after crossing into Gilmanton Iron Works town.
9. After around two miles, make another slight left turn to remain on Catamount Hill Rd/Catamont Road.
10. Drive along this road until you see the entrance sign of Davisville State Forest located off your right side.

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New Hampshire
5

New Hampshire State Parks

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