Great North Woods — Woods, Water & Wilderness

The Great North Woods can be summed up in two words: unspoiled wilderness. Truly the last frontier, it is the northern most region of New Hampshire, stretching above the White Mountains, to the Canadian border. Its proximity to Canada's Province of Quebec, as well as the Maine and Vermont borders, has resulted in a fascinating mix of cultures and outlooks.

Vast woods and water dominate the landscape in the Great North Woods. Forest makes up 97% of the land, much of which is privately held but often open for recreational use. The famous Connecticut Lakes and the upper area of the Connecticut River offer trout and salmon fishing. Sporting adventure is a way of life, from hunting to fishing, camping, hiking, boating, rock-climbing and snowmobiling (with more miles of trails than state highways). Above all, the Great North Woods lends itself to wildlife watching, and is home to more than 3,500 moose.

Scenic drives are the highlight of the Great North Woods. Whether it be traveling on Route 3, which allows you spectacular views of the rolling farmland along the Connecticut River, or driving across Route 26 past one of the Grand Old Hotels "The Balsams" in Dixville Notch. Yes, it is a steep, but very short climb, nothing to be concerned about with that RV. Then you're on your way down towards Errol and Lake Umbagog, where the majestic American Eagle has begun to nest once again. Stop along your drive to take photos, pick wild blueberries or bring a picnic lunch to Beaver Brook Falls in Colebrook.

Heading south on Route 16 brings you to Thirteen Mile Woods, a beautiful drive thru undeveloped and uninhabited woods along the Androscoggin River, a favorite spot for fishing, canoeing and kayaking. As you enter the outskirts of the City of Berlin you can imagine the lumberjsacks of days long past, as they jumped across the logs damming up the river, trying to keep the logs moving towards the old paper mill.  For your own adventure, hike or bike the cross-country trails, the same trails that are explored on skis and snowmobiles in winter.

The Great North Woods Region is the epitome of the simple life with white steeple churches, farmers markets and hometown parades. Consistent with the region itself, the camping offers outstanding scenery and recreation, with a number of state parks as well as private campgrounds to choose from.