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New Hampshire
5

New Hampshire State Parks

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USA Parks
New Hampshire
Merrimack Valley Region
Mast Yard State Forest
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MAST YARD STATE FOREST
MAST YARD STATE FOREST
The Mast Yard State Forest is a majestic natural gem nestled within a picturesque landscape. This forest is characterized by its dense woodland, vibrant foliage, and tranquil atmosphere. Stretching over an expansive area, it offers a haven of serene beauty, rich biodiversity, and numerous recreational opportunities for visitors. The Mast Yard State Forest takes its name from the historic timber industry, as it was once a significant source of mast and shipbuilding materials during the colonial era. Today, it stands as a cherished conservation area, inviting hikers, nature enthusiasts, and explorers to immerse themselves in its peaceful surroundings, marvel at towering trees, discover hidden trails, and revel in the wonders of the great outdoors.
History of the Area
The forest gets its name from the term "mast yard," which refers to an area where tall trees were harvested and used as ship masts during the colonial era. The original purpose of the forest was to provide an abundant supply of white pines, which were highly valued for their strength and flexibility.

Before European colonization, the area was inhabited by the Pennacook Native American tribe, who used the forest for hunting, fishing, and gathering resources. The Pennacook relied heavily on the natural bounty of the land, including the abundant wildlife and trees in the area.

When European settlers arrived in the 17th century, they recognized the vast potential of the white pines in the region. The trees were quickly harvested and used for shipbuilding, as well as for other construction purposes. The mast yard in Penacook became an important center for the mast industry, supplying materials for ships in ports along the Atlantic Coast.

Over time, the intense logging and deforestation of the area took its toll on the forest. By the mid-19th century, the once-thriving mast yard industry had dwindled, and the forest was left largely untouched.

In the early 20th century, the importance of preserving natural resources and promoting recreational activities became evident. The State of New Hampshire recognized the value of preserving land for public use, and in 1937, Mast Yard State Forest was established as a state park.

Since then, the forest has been managed by the New Hampshire Division of Forests and Lands. The primary purpose of the state forest is to provide recreational activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife observation. The forest offers several trails, including the Mast Yard Loop Trail and the Gregg Mill Trail, which take visitors through diverse habitats and scenic landscapes.
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Trails
1. The Mast Yard State Forest Loop: This is a 2-mile loop trail that offers an easy hike for beginners and families with children. It features beautiful wildflowers, wildlife sightings, and the Contoocook River.

2. The Cross Country Ski Trail: Primarily used in winter months by cross-country skiers but also available to hikers during other seasons, this flat terrain path stretches over approximately 3 miles through dense forest areas offering scenic views of snow-covered trees or lush greenery depending on the season.

3. Riverside Walkway: A short half-a-mile walk along the banks of Contoocook River providing stunning river views as well as opportunities for bird watching and fishing.

4. The Logging History Pathway: An educational hiking route where visitors can learn about New Hampshire's logging history while enjoying their trek amidst tall pines; interpretive signs are placed throughout its length which spans around one mile within Mast Yard State Forest area.

5. Contoocook Island Hiking Route: Although not directly located inside Mast Yard state forest it connects via trails from there leading towards small island situated middle of Contoocook river giving unique experience walking across wooden bridges & exploring isolated piece land surrounded water body.

6. Mast Road Connector Trails: These series smaller interconnected paths provide options customize your own journey based personal preference fitness level They range between quarter three quarters long each varying difficulty levels.

7. Wildlife Observation Track: Specifically designed nature enthusiasts who enjoy observing animals birds natural habitat Approximately two miles track passes diverse ecosystems increasing chances sighting various species native region.

8. Forest Management Interpretative Trail: Another educative pathway focusing sustainable practices forestry management Over course roughly one-and-half-miles you'll encounter numerous informational boards explaining different aspects such maintaining biodiversity preventing soil erosion promoting growth healthy vegetation etc.

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Area Campgrounds
Cold Springs Camp Resort
62 Barnard Hill Road
Weare, NH
603-529-2528
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
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
Keyser Pond Campground
1739 Old Concord Road
Henniker, NH
603-428-7741
Spacious Skies French Pond
479 Old W Hopkinton Road
Henniker, NH
603-995-4133
Area Fishing Related Businesses
Sunset Mountain Fish & Game Club
117 West Rd
Canterbury, NH
(603) 783-0454

Directions
1. Start by heading north on Main Street toward Academy Road.
2. Continue straight onto Sheep Davis Road/Route 106 North.
3. Stay on Route 106 for approximately 4 miles until you reach a roundabout.
4. At the roundabout, take the second exit to stay on Route 106 North (also known as Suncook Valley Highway).
5. Follow this road for about another mile and then turn left onto Deerfield Road.

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New Hampshire
5

New Hampshire State Parks

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