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New Hampshire
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New Hampshire State Parks

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Bowditch-Runnells State Forest
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BOWDITCH-RUNNELLS STATE FOREST
BOWDITCH-RUNNELLS STATE FOREST
Bowditch-Runnells State Forest is a serene and captivating natural sanctuary brimming with vibrant flora and fauna. Spanning over 3,800 acres, this enchanting forest offers a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and tranquility seekers alike. Home to a diverse range of ecosystems, including dense woodlands, crystal-clear ponds, and glistening streams, the forest boasts an abundance of recreational activities, such as hiking, fishing, and birdwatching. With its picturesque trails winding through towering trees, showcasing stunning foliage during fall, and providing a respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Bowditch-Runnells State Forest is a quintessential New Hampshire gem that invites visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature and create cherished memories.
History of the Area
Bowditch-Runnells State Forest is a natural reserve located in the town of Bedford, New Hampshire. The forest was established through the vision and dedication of prominent conservationists and philanthropists from the early 20th century.

In the early 1900s, Francis Calley Gray, a Boston-based banker, art collector, and avid conservationist, began acquiring parcels of land in the Bedford area. He aimed to preserve the pristine landscapes and protect the region's natural beauty from encroaching urbanization. Gray's efforts were primarily focused on the preservation of forests and watersheds.

One of the key parcels of land acquired by Gray was the Runnells Farm, which was purchased in 1910. Gray's subsequent purchase of the Bowditch Farm in 1935 formed the core of what would later become the Bowditch-Runnells State Forest. The combined property covered around 740 acres.

Upon his death in 1939, Gray left a substantial bequest to be used for the purchase and maintenance of land for the enjoyment of the public. His bequest provided the financial foundation for the transformation of the Runnells and Bowditch properties into a state forest.

In 1940, the state of New Hampshire established the Bowditch-Runnells State Forest, thus becoming one of the first state forests in the region. The forest was named in honor of Francis Calley Gray and his wife, through their respective ancestral family names.

Since its creation, Bowditch-Runnells State Forest has been managed by the New Hampshire Division of Forests and Lands. The forest provides recreational opportunities to visitors, including hiking, picnicking, birdwatching, and nature exploration. It is home to various plant and animal species, and its diverse ecosystems contribute to the overall biodiversity of the area.
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Location
Bowditch-Runnells State Forest is

Trails
1. Blue Trail: A 2-mile loop trail, moderate difficulty with some steep sections and rocky terrain.

2. Red Trail: Approximately a mile long, this easy-to-moderate trail features flat areas as well as gentle slopes.

3. Yellow Loop: This is an intermediate-level hike of about 0.8 miles featuring mixed terrains including forested paths and open meadows.

4. Green Pathway: At just over half a mile in length, it's perfect for beginners or those looking for shorter hikes; mostly level ground throughout the path.

5.White Blaze Route : An advanced hiking route spanning approximately three miles through dense woods with challenging inclines and declines.

6.Brown Track : Roughly two-and-a-half-mile-long track that runs along Bowditch-Runnells State Forest's eastern boundary offering views of neighboring landscapes

7.Purple Passageway - About one-and-a-half-mile trek which connects to other trails within the park providing hikers multiple options to extend their journey

8.Black Dot Circuit - It covers around four miles encompassing both woodland scenery & water bodies making it popular among birdwatchers

9.Gray Line Way- The longest single stretch covering five miles traverses across diverse topography from hillsides to wetlands

10.Silver Streak Course - Two-point-five-kilometer course ideal for joggers due its relatively smooth surface despite being set amidst thickets

11.Golden Gate Walkway - One kilometer walk suitable even for kids owing largely flat land interspersed by occasional benches

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Area Campgrounds
Westward Shores Cottages & RV Resort
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Ossipee, NH
603-539-6445
Chocorua KOA Holiday
893 White Mountain Highway
Tamworth, NH
603-323-8536
Chocorua KOA Holiday
893 White Mountain Highway
Tamworth, NH
603-323-8536
Chocorua Camping Village
893 White Mountain Highway, Route 16
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Saco River Camping Area
1550 White Mountain Highway
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603-356-3360
Danforth Bay Camping Resort
196 Shawtown Road
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603-539-2069
Glen Ellis Family Campground
PO Box 397
Glen, NH
603-383-4567
Riverbend RV Resort Inc
11 Jackman Pond Road
South Tamworth, NH
603-323-9133
Foothills Family Campground
506 Maple Road
Tamworth, NH
603-323-8322
Tamworth Camping Area
194 Depot Road
Tamworth, NH
Yogi Bear's Jellystone ParkT Camp-Resort
U.S. 302
Bartlett, NH
603-383-4567
Huttopia White Mountains
Pine Knoll Road
Albany, NH
603-447-3131
Saco River Family Camping
1550 White Mountain Highway
Conway, NH
603-356-3360

Directions
1. Start by heading south on NH:114 S/State Route 101 toward Meetinghouse Road.
2. Continue straight onto County Road for about 0.7 miles.
3. At the roundabout, take the second exit to stay on County Road and drive for another mile.
4. Turn right onto Back River Road and continue driving for approximately 1 mile.

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New Hampshire State Parks

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