Fort Stark State Historic Site

211 Wildrose Lane
New Castle, NH 03854
Phone: 603-271-3556



Icon Legend

Fort Stark Historic Site is located on a peninsula historically called Jerry's Point on the southeast corner of New Castle Island. It overlooks the Piscataqua River, Little Harbor and the Atlantic Ocean. Fort Stark was named in honor of John Stark, commander of N.H. forces at the Battle of Bennington (1777). An unmarked walking trail traverses the ten-acre fort site. Please visit with caution! Fort Stark is a former military installation. Beware of dangers of unprotected stairs, high walls, rough ground and slippery rocks. Adult supervision of children is required. Map of Fort Stark Historic Site

See the whole album of historical photos from Fort Stark Historic Site, taken between 1940-1944 on our Facebook page.

New Castle Shipwreck Exhibit

The New Castle Shipwreck Exhibit, courtesy of the Friends of Fort Stark, is on display at Fort Stark State Historic Site through September 5th, 2011. The shipwreck exhibit is located inside the Visitor Center building and opening times are the same - every Saturday, from 12 to 4 pm and Wednesdays from 9 to 11 am, weather permitting. Appointments can also be made by contacting Carol White at fortstarkfriends@gmail.com.

There is a 3 1/2 minute video running continuously in the Visitor Center showing the operation of a Lyle gun and Breeches Buoy which were used in a couple of our highlighted ship wrecks.

For more information contact Carol White at fortstarkfriends@gmail.com.

Friends of Fort Stark

In recent years several individuals and groups have expressed an interest in preserving this unique environment. This past summer volunteer crews cleared brush, helping to open up the ocean view along the back side of the park, as well as uncover old gun batteries that had been overgrown. Due to these volunteer efforts, fleets of pleasure boats can be viewed from the park and Fort Stark has been reawakened and come alive again.

Continuing efforts by these and other individuals, along with help and support of New Hampshire Division of Parks and Recreation and Bureau of Historic Sites, resulted in not only a cleaned up look, but a park that is perfect for group picnics, kayaking, and various recreational activities.

Operating Schedule

The Visitor Center at Fort Stark State Historic Site will be open for visitors every Saturday, Noon - 4:00 pm from Memorial Day until Labor Day. It is also open, weather permitting, on Wednesdays, 9:30 am - 11:00 am. It has military artifacts and information about the 22nd Coastal Artillery which was headquartered at Fort Stark in New Castle during World War II. The area also has a walking trail with an information guide, a small beach and kayak access to the ocean and Little Harbor. There are no rest rooms and only limited parking.

Are pets allowed at Fort Stark State Historic Site?

Pets are not permitted in the park. See the NH State Parks Pets Policy for more information.

Keep Your Parks Clean

Through the Carry-In/Carry-Out Program, you can help us keep your parks clean and beautiful by carrying out whatever you carry in. Thank you for your cooperation and remember to recycle.