SUGAR HILL STATE FOREST
The Sugar Hill State Forest is a picturesque natural haven nestled among rolling hills and lush forests. With its captivating beauty and abundant wildlife, the forest offers visitors a serene retreat to explore and immerse themselves in nature. Trails meander through tall stands of trees, revealing stunning vistas of neighboring mountains and the tranquil Connecticut River Valley below. The forest is blanketed with vibrant wildflowers during the warmer months, creating a captivating tapestry of colors. Its peaceful atmosphere and wide range of recreational activities, including hiking, camping, and picnicking, make the Sugar Hill State Forest an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful escape in New Hampshire's captivating landscape.
Sugar Hill State Forest, located in northern New Hampshire, has a rich history dating back to the early 1800s. The forest was once part of a larger tract of land known as the Percy Estate, which was owned by Charles P. Noyes, also known as the "Lumber King" because of his extensive lumbering operations.
In the mid-1800s, the Percy Estate had a thriving lumber industry, with numerous sawmills operating in the area. The timber harvested in the forest was used for various purposes, including building materials, furniture, and fuel. The lumber industry was a significant economic driver for the region, attracting workers and contributing to the local economy.
However, by the early 1900s, extensive logging had resulted in the depletion of the forest's resources, and the lumber industry declined. In 1913, Percy Estate's remaining land, including the present-day Sugar Hill State Forest, was sold to the New Hampshire State Forestry Commission. The Commission aimed to restore the land by implementing sustainable forest management practices like reforestation and conservation efforts.
Over the years, the Sugar Hill State Forest has gradually regenerated, and today it comprises approximately 6,000 acres of mixed hardwood and softwood forest. The forest is primarily managed for timber production, wildlife habitat conservation, outdoor recreation, and watershed protection.
Campgrounds
New Hampshire's newest Big Rig Park is situated just a few miles from Wellington State Park , which is on Newfound Lake, one of the cleanest inland lakes in the United States. Your recreational opportunities are varied and we are the perfect base camp for your explorations.
3.9 miles from park*