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New Hampshire
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New Hampshire State Parks

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USA Parks
New Hampshire
Merrimack Valley Region
Taylor State Forest
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TAYLOR STATE FOREST
TAYLOR STATE FOREST
The Taylor State Forest is a scenic and vibrant woodland that stretches over 5,000 acres. This natural treasure embodies the pristine beauty of the region with its lush greenery, sparkling streams, and diverse wildlife. The forest presents a perfect haven for outdoor enthusiasts, providing ample opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and fishing in its numerous ponds. With its peaceful ambiance and well-maintained trails, the Taylor State Forest offers visitors a truly immersive and memorable experience in the heart of New Hampshire's natural splendor.
History of the Area
1. Native American Land: Before European colonization, the land now encompassed by Taylor State Forest was part of the hunting and fishing grounds of various Native American tribes, including the Abenaki people.

2. Colonial Settlement: In the early 1700s, European settlers began to establish communities in the region surrounding the forest. The land was originally part of the colonial settlement of Wilton, New Hampshire.

3. Logging Industry: By the 1800s, the area had become a hub for the booming logging industry in New England. The abundance of timber in the region attracted skilled loggers, and numerous sawmills and logging camps sprouted up in the area.

4. Ownership Changes: Over the years, the ownership of the land shifted multiple times. At various points, the land belonged to individuals and corporations involved in timber harvesting and other resource-based industries.

5. Taylor Family: In the early 1900s, the Taylor family, particularly R. Loring Taylor, played a pivotal role in the preservation and management of the forest. R. Loring Taylor was an influential conservationist and philanthropist who acquired and protected vast areas of forestland in New Hampshire, including what is now Taylor State Forest.

6. State Acquisition: In 1938, the Taylor family sold their land to the state of New Hampshire for $64,000 (a significantly lower price than the market value) with the condition that it be designated as a forest reserve. This act of conservation ensured the preservation of the forest for future generations.

7. Taylor State Forest: Following the state acquisition, the forest was named "Taylor State Forest" in honor of the Taylor family's conservation efforts. It was managed by the New Hampshire Division of Forests and Lands, which oversees its conservation, maintenance, and recreational activities to this day.
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Trails
1. Bear Brook Trail: This is a 10-mile loop trail that offers scenic views and wildlife sightings, suitable for all skill levels.

2. Catamount Hill Loop: A moderate difficulty level hike of approximately 3 miles long with an elevation gain of about 400 feet offering beautiful forest scenery along the way.

3. Bobcat Trail: An easy to moderate hiking route spanning around two miles through dense woods filled with wildflowers in spring and summer months, ideal for bird watching enthusiasts as well.

4. Chipmunk Crossing Pathway: It's a short half mile nature walk perfect for families or those looking to enjoy some quiet time amidst lush greenery without much physical exertion involved.

5. Deer Run Loop Track: Approximately four-miles-long track featuring stunning vistas over rolling hillsides; it has several steep sections making it more suited towards experienced hikers.

6. Fox Hollow Waypoint Route: This three-mile round trip trek provides ample opportunities to spot local fauna including foxes hence its name; this path also features gentle slopes thus being accessible even by novice trekkers.

7. Hawk Ridge Overlook Point Walkway: At just under one mile each way, this pathway leads up to an overlook point providing panoramic views across Taylor State Forest especially during fall when leaves change color creating vibrant landscapes everywhere you look at.

8. Moose Meadow Circuit: Spanning five miles, this circuit meanders through diverse habitats from wetlands where moose can often be spotted grazing peacefully, to thick forests home various species birds adding another dimension your adventure here.

9. Otter Creek Passage: This moderately difficult six-mile passage follows alongside picturesque Otter creek known not only its clear waters but also rich biodiversity which includes otters among other aquatic creatures.

10. Porcupine Peak Climb: A challenging seven mile climb leading right upto Porcupine peak, the highest point within Taylor state park, this journey involves significant elevation gain and is recommended for experienced hikers only.

11. Raccoon Ridge Ramble: A two-mile ramble along Raccoon ridge offering stunning views over surrounding landscapes, this trail also features a few steep sections but overall it's suitable even for less seasoned trekkers.

12. Squirrel Scramble Short Cut: This half mile short cut through Squirrel scramble can be used to either shorten or lengthen your journey depending on which direction you're heading in, it's an easy walk with no significant slopes involved.

13. Turkey Trot Trail: A three miles long loop track that winds its way around the park providing ample opportunities to spot wild turkeys among other local fauna.

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Area Campgrounds
Twin Oaks Campground
80 Pinewood Road
Allenstown, NH
603-485-2700
Twin Oaks Campground
80 Pinewood Road
Allenstown, NH
603-485-2700
Hillcrest Campground
78 Dover Road
Chichester, NH
603-798-5124
Sandy Beach RV Resort
677 Clement Hill Road
Contoocook, NH
603-746-3591
Circle 9 Ranch
39 Windymere Drive
Epsom, NH
603-736-9656
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
Area Fishing Related Businesses
Sunset Mountain Fish & Game Club
117 West Rd
Canterbury, NH
(603) 783-0454

Directions
1. Start by heading north on Interstate 93.
2. Take exit 20 to merge onto NH:140 N toward Tilton/NH Route 132/Sanbornton.
3. Continue on NH:140 N for approximately 4 miles until you reach Sanbornton Square Road.
4. Turn left onto Sanbornton Square Road and continue straight for about half a mile.
5. At the intersection with Stage Road, turn right to stay on Sanbornton Square Road/Stage Rd (signs for Taylor Home).
6. Continue driving along this road as it winds through picturesque rural landscapes.
7. After around two miles, you will see signs indicating the entrance to Taylor State Forest on your left:hand side.

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New Hampshire
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New Hampshire State Parks

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