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State Forest · NH

Berlin State Forest

Berlin State Forest in New Hampshire offers a scenic natural retreat characterized by dense woodland, diverse wildlife, and ample opportunities for hiking, fishing, and snow sports throughout the year.

State Forest26,0004+ Trails

Designation

State Forest

Total Wilderness Area

26,000

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Berlin State Forest

Berlin State Forest in New Hampshire offers a scenic natural retreat characterized by dense woodland, diverse wildlife, and ample opportunities for hiking, fishing, and snow sports throughout the year.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Berlin State Forest encompasses a significant expanse of northern New Hampshire's forested landscape, located near the city of Berlin. Covering a variety of terrain including rolling hills, mixed hardwood and softwood forests, and pristine waterways, this state forest provides habitat for species such as moose, black bear, and numerous bird species. The area is rich in natural resources and serves as a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a less crowded experience in the White Mountains region. Historically, the Berlin area was shaped by logging and paper mill industries, but Berlin State Forest has been preserved to protect its ecological and recreational values. Visitors enjoy miles of hiking trails that transition into snowmobile and cross-country skiing routes during winter months. The forest’s waterways support fishing, particularly for brook trout. Berlin State Forest also offers dispersed camping and quiet picnic spots, making it a favored spot for family outings and nature observation. The forest’s quiet environment and accessibility from nearby towns draw visitors seeking a combination of adventure and solitude.

Field Guide · State Forest
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Berlin State Forest

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Discover Nature's Beauty: Mahoosuc Public Reserved Land★ 8.5⌖ 12 miHiking
Mahoosuc Public Reserved Land

Discover Nature's Beauty: Mahoosuc Public Reserved Land

Explore the challenging Mahoosuc Public Reserved Land near Newry, ME. Known for its extreme terrain, including the tough Mahoosuc Notch, the area offers hiking, camping, and wildlife watching. Late spring to early fall is best for this remote adventure.

Rock Climbing at East Peak in The Berkshires★ 7.5⌖ 15 miRock Climbing
Sargent's Purchase

Rock Climbing at East Peak in The Berkshires

Rock climbing at East Peak in The Berkshires offers climbers exciting routes with stunning views. Best explored in spring and fall, this scenic area within Mount Washington State Forest is ideal for adventure seekers.

Rock ClimbingView Details→
Majestic Mount Washington★ 7.8⌖ 15 miHiking
Mount Washington

Majestic Mount Washington

Explore Mount Washington in New Hampshire. With its challenging trails and stunning views, it's a top choice for adventure seekers. Reach the summit by hiking, driving, or skiing, but prepare for unpredictable weather. Best visited late spring to early fall.

Majestic Peaks of Mt. Washington State Park★ 8.8⌖ 15 miHiking
Mt. Washington State Park

Majestic Peaks of Mt. Washington State Park

Explore the rugged beauty of Mt. Washington State Park in New Hampshire. Known for its breathtaking views and extreme weather, this challenging destination offers hiking, scenic drives, and unique historic experiences at the summit.

Hiking the Caribou Mountain Loop in Evans Notch★ 7.5⌖ 15 miHiking
State Route 113

Hiking the Caribou Mountain Loop in Evans Notch

Explore the 6.7-mile Caribou Mountain Loop in Evans Notch, near Bethel, Maine. This moderately challenging trail offers stunning White Mountain views and wildlife sightings. Suitable for experienced hikers looking for scenic tranquility.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Highland Trail Loop – offers panoramic views of the northern White Mountains✦ Merrill Brook – a popular brook trout fishing spot✦ Berlin Fire Tower – historic lookout offering 360-degree vistas✦ Peaceful Beaver Pond – a quiet spot ideal for wildlife watching and photography
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Berlin State Forest

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Berlin State Forest
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Berlin State Forest
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Berlin State Forest
Park Recreation

Mountain Biking

Available in Berlin State Forest
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Berlin State Forest
Park Recreation

Snow Sports

Available in Berlin State Forest
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Berlin State Forest
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Berlin State Forest.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free access with no permits required for day use; camping may require registration

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Berlin State Forest

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Berlin State Forest Campground

A small campground offering tent sites and basic amenities near the forest entrance, convenient for day-trippers and overnight stays.

Beaver Pond Primitive Camp

A secluded primitive campsite close to Beaver Pond, perfect for quiet nights and wildlife watching.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Berlin State Forest

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Berlin
⌖ 0.62 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Berlin, New Hampshire

A rugged northern New England town offering genuine wilderness access with strong four-season outdoor recreation opportunities in the White Mountain region.

Late Spring through Fall for hiking and paddling, Winter for snow sportsExplore Town
Gorham
⌖ 5.55 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Gorham, New Hampshire

A charming New England town that serves as a gateway to the White Mountains, offering year-round outdoor exploration and adventure.

Fall and WinterExplore Town
Milan
⌖ 7.23 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Milan, New Hampshire

Milan offers quiet, rugged outdoor experiences with expansive forests, pristine rivers, and winter snowfields, perfect for travelers seeking tranquility and natural beauty.

Late spring to early fall, and winter for snow sportsExplore Town
Shelburne
⌖ 7.40 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Shelburne, New Hampshire

A quiet, rural town offering peaceful outdoor experiences in the foothills of the White Mountains, ideal for nature lovers seeking uncrowded trails and waterways.

Late Spring through Fall for warm-weather activities, Winter for snow sportsExplore Town
Dummer
⌖ 9.83 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Dummer, New Hampshire

A quiet, rural town offering tranquil outdoor adventures with forested areas, rivers, and gentle terrain ideal for low-impact exploration and seasonal activities.

Late Spring through Early FallExplore Town
Gilead
⌖ 12.01 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Gilead, Maine

A quiet wilderness gateway offering rustic outdoor experiences with access to pristine forests, rivers, and mountains in western Maine.

Late Spring to Early Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for snowshoeingExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Berlin State Forest

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Mount Washington Observatory Overnight Medical Training Program for Youth Educators | Workshop in Portland | Portland, New Hampshire · 14.72 mi away
All Adventures· Mount Washington Observatory

Mount Washington Observatory Overnight Medical Training Program for Youth Educators | Workshop in Portland |

Discover the unique opportunity to spend a night at Mount Washington's summit weather station while earning Wilderness First Aid training. An adventure that combines rugged terrain, expert instruction, and breathtaking views—perfect for outdoor educators and enthusiasts alike.

Explore this trip

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.