Archery Range
Bear Brook State Park has two public archery ranges: a 15-target range and a 4-target practice range that is universally accessible. They sit at the Archery Field off Podunk Road, next to Archery Pond. NH State Parks' own video calls them one of only two free public archery ranges in New Hampshire. There is no separate range fee, but you pay the park's day-use fee, and you bring your own bow and arrows.
The Ranges at a Glance
The Two Ranges
The main range has 15 targets. The smaller practice range has 4 targets and is built to be universally accessible, so archers who use a wheelchair can shoot there. The park does not rent or lend equipment, so arrive with your own bow, arrows and any targets or tools you need for your setup.
NH State Parks does not publish distances, target types or a list of range rules online. If you need to know whether broadheads or crossbows are allowed, or whether a group can book the range, call the park office at (603) 485-9869 before you go.
How to Find the Archery Field
On the official trail map, the Archery Field is on Lower Road, just east of where it leaves Podunk Road. The map marks a parking lot, a pit toilet and the accessible symbol there. Archery Pond is across the road. Coming from Deerfield Road, drive south on Podunk Road past the second tollbooth and turn onto Lower Road, the road to the campground. Parking and directions.
What It Costs
Shooting is free. You still pay the park's day-use fee to be in the park, $4 for adults 12 and over and $2 for children 6 to 11. Children 5 and under and New Hampshire residents 65 and over with a valid NH license get in free. Season passes cover the fee; see hours and fees.
Archery Pond Next Door
Archery Pond, beside the range, is a fly-fishing-only trout pond that New Hampshire Fish and Game stocks with brook and rainbow trout. Fish and Game lists it as wheelchair accessible. Across the road the park keeps a pond for children under 12 to fish. More on fishing at Bear Brook.
Safety Around the Range
- Trails run close to the Archery Field. Shoot only at the targets and only toward the backstops.
- Keep children and dogs behind the shooting line. Dogs must be leashed in the park.
- Pick up your arrows and any trash. The park is carry in, carry out.
- Never shoot from or toward a trail, the pond or the road.
When to Go
NH State Parks does not post separate hours for the range. The park is open for recreation all year unless posted, but it is staffed only in season. In 2026 the hiking areas were staffed daily from May 2 to November 1. For questions out of season, call the park manager's office at (603) 485-9874.
Good For
- Archers who want a free range with many targets close to Concord and Manchester.
- Archers with limited mobility, on the accessible practice range.
- A family day that mixes archery, fishing and a short trail walk.
Maybe Skip If
- You need rental gear or lessons. The park provides neither.
- You plan to shoot firearms. These are archery ranges only.
Bear Brook State Park Archery FAQ
Is the Bear Brook archery range free?
Yes. There is no range fee, though you pay the park's day-use fee ($4 for adults). NH State Parks' video calls it one of only two free public archery ranges in New Hampshire.
How many targets does the Bear Brook archery range have?
Two ranges: one with 15 targets and an accessible practice range with 4 targets.
Do I need my own bow at Bear Brook?
Yes. NH State Parks says to bring your own archery equipment. Nothing is rented on site.
Is the Bear Brook archery range wheelchair accessible?
The four-target practice range is universally accessible, and the official map marks accessible parking at the Archery Field.
Where is the archery range at Bear Brook State Park?
At the Archery Field on Lower Road, just off Podunk Road in Allenstown, next to Archery Pond.