Monadnock State Park
116 Poole Road, Jaffrey, NH 03452
Phone: 603-532-8862
Gilson Pond Campground
585 Dublin Rd, Jaffrey, NH 03452
Phone: 603-532-2416
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Monadnock State Park is located in and around the 3,165-ft. Mount Monadnock. The park is surrounded by thousands of acres of protected highlands. In 1987, Mount Monadnock was designated a National Natural Landmark. The park offers year-round recreational opportunities.
Operating Schedule
Monadnock State Park is open year-round. Day use fees at staffed entrances are required daily. Camping fees are also required daily. The Old Toll Road will be staffed and visitor services will be provided starting on the weekend of April 14th. Day use fees will be required on days when the area is staffed. Please call Monadnock State Park with any questions. Services and camping will be available at the Gilson Pond Area/Campground beginning May 11th.
Recreationists should possess the necessary knowledge, skill, and equipment to ensure their own safety. Users assume all risk while recreating in State Park lands.
Spring Recreation at Monadnock State Park
Monadnock State Park offers hiking and camping. Springtime access to "back trails" may be limited and roadways may be closed or unsafe. Hikers interested in finding out what the conditions are prior to heading out can call the park directly at (603) 532-8862 or visit the Monadnock trail conditions report webpage.
Spring Hiking Information
Springtime brings a change in wildlife, plant life, and other noticeable seasonal changes on the mountain. However, hikers should be prepared with appropriate gear and supplies for their climb. Bug spray can often be useful. Hikers should also bring at least 2 liters of water to stay properly hydrated. While the temperatures are warmer, colder temperatures can still be present on some days, especially at the top of the mountain. Hikers visiting in the Spring are encouraged to bring layers. In addition to appropriate colder weather clothing, hikers should be prepared through the Spring with sturdy hiking boots. Additional light traction may be useful in areas where snow and ice are still present. Spring is a particularly sensitive time of year for the hiking trails and the mountain is especially vulnerable to damage from poor hiking behaviors. Visitors should expect and be prepared to hike in the middle of the trails through areas of mud and puddles as well as patches of snow or ice. Hikers who attempt to avoid these sections will be forced to hike on the edges of or off trail, which tramples vegetation and loosens soil. The erosion process is significantly accelerated and the trails widen and further deteriorate. Help protect Mt. Monadnock by staying on trail.
Spring Camping
Monadnock State Park is open for camping year-round. Currently, all camping is at the Monadnock Headquarters Area. Family campsites are available only on a first come, first serve basis. Youth Groups camping must be arranged by reservation by calling Monadnock State Park directly. The Gilson Pond Campground will re-open on May 11th and family camping will be available at that area at that time. Out of state firewood is prohibited, but firewood is available to purchase at the park. Camping is only allowed in designated campsites. Camping on the mountain is against state law.
As we are still coming out of winter, running water is not yet available in the park. Campers should bring their water with them. The campground road is now open and campers can park at their campsites. Outhouses are available for use, but the flush toilet building is not yet opened. Call Monadnock State Park for more information: (603) 532-8862.
Monadnock Headquarters Campground Map
Reserve a campsite at Monadnock State Park for next season through ReserveAmerica.
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