Rules & Regulations
Dogs are allowed at Bear Brook State Park on a leash no longer than 6 feet, on the trails, in the campground and in the Bear Hill cabins, but not at the beach day-use area or the pavilions. Drones may not take off or land anywhere in the park. Fires are allowed only in the campground and picnic areas, camping only in designated camping areas, and everything you bring in, you carry out. Every trail is shared by hikers, bikers and riders.
Rules at a Glance
Dogs and Other Pets
- Leash of 6 feet or shorter, standard or retractable, at all times.
- Allowed on hiking trails, in Beaver Pond Campground and in the Bear Hill cabins.
- Not allowed at the beach day-use area or at the pavilions. Statewide, pets are banned from swim areas, picnic areas and pavilions from May 1 to September 30.
- Never leave a pet alone, including at a campsite or in a car or camper.
- Pick up after your dog and bin the bag or take it home.
- Service animals are allowed under the ADA.
Drones
Drone use is restricted at all New Hampshire state parks. Operators may not take off or land anywhere inside the park boundary.
Fires and Firewood
- Fires only in the campground fire rings. The 2026 trail sheet says fires are permitted only in the campground.
- Campfires must be out by 11:30 pm and follow any fire restrictions in force.
- Don't bring firewood from out of state. It can carry invasive insects. Buy it at the park store.
- Burning trash is illegal.
Camping
Camping is allowed only in designated camping areas: Beaver Pond Campground, the Bear Hill cabins and the Smith Pond Shelter. There is no backcountry or dispersed camping. Quiet hours are 10 pm to 7 am, car stereos are not allowed, and generators may run only from 9 am to noon and 5 to 8 pm. The longest stay is 14 days.
On the Trails
- All trails are multi-use: hikers, mountain bikers and horseback riders share them unless posted.
- All trail use requires the park's day-use fee; see hours and fees.
- Don't cut standing trees, limbs, shrubs or any plants. It is against the law.
- Respect private roads, access trails and land along the park boundary.
- Obey closure signs, including around the 2025 forest harvest area.
Trash and Wildlife
New Hampshire state parks follow a carry-in, carry-out program. Bring a bag and take your trash and recycling home. Don't feed raccoons, ducks or other wildlife; NH State Parks warns that ducks fed at the beach gather in the swimming area and become a health problem.
Fishing and Archery
Archery Pond is fly fishing only, and anglers 16 and over need a New Hampshire fishing license; see fishing. At the archery ranges, bring your own equipment.
Off-Season
The park is open for recreation all year unless posted, but off-season it is usually unstaffed, restrooms are closed and gates may be shut. NH State Parks says visitors then assume all risk.
Bear Brook State Park Rules FAQ
Are dogs allowed at Bear Brook State Park?
Yes, on a leash no longer than 6 feet, on the trails, in the campground and in the Bear Hill cabins. Dogs are not allowed at the beach day-use area or the pavilions.
Can I fly a drone at Bear Brook State Park?
No. Drone operators may not take off or land anywhere within New Hampshire state park boundaries.
Can you have a campfire at Bear Brook?
Only in the campground, in a fire ring, and out by 11:30 pm. Fires may be banned during fire restrictions.
Can you camp anywhere at Bear Brook State Park?
No. Camping is only allowed in designated areas: Beaver Pond Campground, the Bear Hill cabins and the Smith Pond Shelter.
Are there trash cans at Bear Brook?
NH State Parks runs a carry-in, carry-out program and asks visitors to take their trash home.