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New Hampshire
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New Hampshire State Parks

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Seacoast Region Region
Rock Rimmon State Forest
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ROCK RIMMON STATE FOREST
ROCK RIMMON STATE FOREST
Rock Rimmon State Forest, located in Manchester, is a captivating natural oasis that offers visitors a plethora of outdoor activities surrounded by breathtaking beauty. This forest, with its distinctive feature of a towering rock outcrop called Rock Rimmon, showcases stunning vistas of the city skyline, the Merrimack River, and the distant White Mountains. Whether it's hiking through its well-marked trails, rock climbing up its rugged terrain, or enjoying a peaceful picnic in its lovely gardens, Rock Rimmon State Forest offers a tranquil escape for nature enthusiasts seeking a memorable experience in the heart of New Hampshire.
History of the Area
- Indigenous Settlement: Before European settlers arrived in the area, Rock Rimmon and its surrounding region were inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Pennacook and Abenaki peoples. The forest was part of the traditional hunting and gathering grounds for these tribes.

- European Settlement: In the early 18th century, European settlers began to establish their presence in the area. Colonists began to clear land for farming and logging, utilizing the resources found in Rock Rimmon as well.

- Industrial Activity: As Manchester became an important industrial center in the 19th century, with its textile mills and other manufacturing industries, the forest's resources were utilized for meeting numerous industrial needs. Trees were logged to support the growing demand for timber to construct buildings, bridges, and other structures.

- Conservation Efforts: In the early 20th century, concerns about deforestation and the need for preserving natural spaces led to the establishment of the New Hampshire State Park system. In 1911, Rock Rimmon was designated as a state forest, making it one of the earliest preserved areas in the state.

- Recreational Development: Throughout the 20th century, Rock Rimmon State Forest underwent development to make it more accessible and enjoyable for visitors. Trails were established, picnic areas were created, and other recreational amenities were added to encourage public use and appreciation of the forest's natural beauty.
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Trails
1. Rock Rimmon Loop Trail: This is a 2-mile loop trail that offers moderate difficulty for hikers and features beautiful wild flowers during the spring season. The path winds through dense woods, over rocky terrain, and past small streams.

2. Blueberry Hill Path: A relatively easy hike of about 0. 8 miles round trip with minimal elevation gain which leads to an open hilltop filled with blueberries in late summer.

3. White Pine Way: It's approximately one mile long featuring flat terrains making it suitable for beginners or those looking for a leisurely walk amidst nature; this route boasts towering white pines along its course.

4. Granite Ridge Track: An intermediate level track stretching around three miles offering stunning views from atop granite cliffs; requires good footwear due to some steep sections covered by loose rocks.

5. Bear Brook Connector Trail: At just under two miles lengthwise, this connector trail links up several other trails within the forest providing more extensive hiking options.

6. Hemlock Grove Route: This half-a-mile short but scenic pathway takes you through lush hemlock groves giving off cool shade even on hot days.

7. Rocky Peak Climb: This challenging climb stretches nearly four-miles uphill leading towards Rocky peak where panoramic vistas await adventurous climbers .

8. Sugar Maple Stroll: A tranquil stroll perfect during autumn when sugar maple trees lining the way turn into vibrant hues creating picturesque scenes.

9. Cedar Creek Crossing: Approximately two-and-half mile trek crossing Cedar creek multiple times via wooden bridges while meandering through mixed hardwood forests.

10. Oak Knoll Circuit: Roughly three-miles circuitous journey taking hikers across varied landscapes including oak woodlands, fern-filled valleys & moss-covered boulders.

11. Birch Bluff Overlook Hike: An arduous five-mile-long ascent culminating at Birch bluff overlook presenting sweeping views of surrounding landscape.

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Area Campgrounds
Tuxbury Pond Campground
167 Campground Rd
South Hampton, NH
603-394-7660
Shel-Al Campground
PO Box 700
North Hampton, NH
603-964-5730
Wadleigh Falls Campground
16 Campground Road
Lee, NH
603-659-3852
Hidden Valley RV & Golf Park
81 Damren Road
Derry, NH
603-887-3767
Exeter Elms Family Campground
188 Court Street
Exeter, NH
Tidewater Campground
160 Lafayette Road
Hampton, NH
603-926-5474
Wakeda Campground
294 Exeter Road Route 88
Hampton Falls, NH
603-772-5274
Angle Pond Grove Inc
9 Pillsbury Road
Sandown, NH
Mill Brook RV Park
99 New Hampshire 125
Kingston, NH
603-642-7112
Area Fishing Related Businesses
Merrimac Bait & Tackle
130 E Main St
Merrimac, MA
(978) 346-8835
Danville Chenille Co Inc
1 Hampstead Rd
Danville, NH
(603) 382-5553
Plaistow Fish & Game Club
18 May Ray Ave
Plaistow, NH
(603) 382-3675

Directions
1. Start by heading north on I:93 N from Manchester.
2. Continue on I:93 N until you reach Exit 9N towards Hooksett/Concord.
3. Merge onto NH:101 W and continue driving westbound.
4. Take exit 7 toward Raymond/Candia/NH Route 43/Rockingham Park Boulevard.
5. At the end of the ramp, turn right onto NH:43 E/Folsom Road (signs for Candia).
6. Continue straight through two roundabouts while staying on Folsom Rd/NH Route 43 E.
7. After approximately six miles, take a slight left onto Deerfield Road at the intersection with North Rd/Bear Brook State Park entrance road.
8. Follow Deerfield Road as it winds its way through scenic countryside for about four miles before turning into High Street near Bear Hill Cemetery.
9. Stay straight to remain on High St., which will lead you directly into Rock Rimmon State Forest parking area after another mile or so.

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New Hampshire
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New Hampshire State Parks

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