Monadnock State Park
116 Poole Road, Jaffrey, NH 03452
Phone: 603-532-8862
Gilson Pond Campground
585 Dublin Rd, Jaffrey, NH 03452
Phone: 603-532-2416
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Monadnock State Park is located in and around the 3,165-ft. Mount Monadnock. The park is surrounded by thousands of acres of protected highlands. In 1987, Mount Monadnock was designated a National Natural Landmark. The park offers year-round recreational opportunities.
Get trail conditions, recent photos, mountain history, lore and other information related to Monadnock State Park in our weekly reports:
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Operating Schedule
Monadnock State Park is open year-round. While the staff is present around the park daily, limited visitor services and amenities are provided and day-use fees are required through the winter season only on weekends and holidays. Water and firewood may not always be available from park staff. Campers can call Monadnock HQ at 603-532-8862 for details. The Park Store is also only open on weekends and holidays through the winter. Visitors can make arrangements for visiting the Park Store mid-week, during the winter, by calling and setting up a time with the Park Staff.
Spring Recreation at Monadnock State Park
Monadnock State Park offers hiking and camping. Springtime access to "back trails" may be limited and roadways may be closed or unsafe. Hikers interested in finding out what the conditions are prior to heading out can call the park directly at (603) 532-8862 or visit the Monadnock trail conditions report webpage.
Spring Hiking Information
Springtime brings a change in wildlife, plant life, and other noticeable seasonal changes on the mountain. However, hikers should be prepared with appropriate gear and supplies for their climb. Bug spray can often be useful. Hikers should also bring at least 2 liters of water to stay properly hydrated. While the temperatures are warmer, colder or frigid temperatures can still be present on some days, especially above treeline. Hikers visiting in the Spring are encouraged to bring layers. In addition to appropriate colder weather clothing, hikers should be prepared through the Spring with sturdy hiking boots. Additional light traction may be useful in areas where snow and ice are still present.
Spring is a particularly sensitive time of year for the hiking trails and the mountain is especially vulnerable to damage from poor hiking behaviors. Visitors should expect and be prepared to hike in the middle of the trails through areas of mud and puddles as well as patches of snow or ice. Hikers who attempt to avoid these sections will be forced to hike on the edges of or off trail, which tramples vegetation and loosens soil. The erosion process is significantly accelerated and the trails widen and further deteriorate. Help protect Mt. Monadnock by staying on trail.
Spring Camping at Monadnock State Park
Monadnock State Park is open for camping year-round. Currently, all camping is at the Monadnock Headquarters Area. Family campsites are available only on a first come, first serve basis. Youth Groups camping must be arranged by reservation by calling Monadnock State Park directly. The Gilson Pond Campground will re-open on May 10th and family camping will be available at that area at that time. Out of state firewood is prohibited, but firewood is available to purchase at the park. Camping is only allowed in designated campsites. Camping on the mountain is against state law.
Call Monadnock State Park for more information or updates on the re-opening of amenities: (603) 532-8862.
Monadnock Headquarters Campground Map 
Gilson Pond Campground will reopen open in May 2013.
For Camping Reservations:
Family camping from now until May 23rd is on a first come, first serve basis only. Family camping is available only at the Monadnock Headquarters through May 9th. Beginning May 10th, family camping is only available at the Monadnock State Park Gilson Pond Campground.
Family camping reservations for stays between Memorial Day weekend and Columbus Day weekend can be made online with ReserveAmerica or by calling 1-877-647-2757
Reservations for the Gilson Pond Remote Campsites can be made by calling Monadnock State Park directly at 603-532-2416 or 603-532-8862. Remote Campsites are not available for group reservations.
Youth Group Camping reservations for stays between now and May 23rd can be made by calling Monadnock State Park directly at 603-532-8862
Youth Group Camping reservations for stays between Memorial Day Weekend and Columbus Day Weekend can be made only by phone, by calling 1-877-647-2757
Even during the Camping Reservation Season, between Memorial Day and Columbus Day weekends, select family campsites are available for first come, first serve visitors.
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