🌳 Merrimack Valley Outdoor Adventure Guide
Whether you’re looking to hike, bike, splash, or simply breathe in the fresh air, these nearby outdoor destinations offer something for everyone in the family—from toddlers to teens!
🌲 ANDOVER
Harold Parker State Forest
🚶♀️ Hike or bike miles of wooded trails
🏕️ Picnic areas and campgrounds
🛶 Canoeing on Berry Pond
📍 133 Jenkins Rd, Andover
Pomps Pond
🌊 Swimming, kayaking, and a sandy beach
🎾 Playgrounds and athletic courts
📍 147 Abbot St, Andover
🌿 NORTH ANDOVER
Weir Hill Reservation (The Trustees)
🏞️ Scenic hilltop views over Lake Cochichewick
🦋 Great for short hikes, birdwatching, and nature walks
📍 Stevens St, North Andover
Stevens-Coolidge House & Gardens
🌸 Beautiful flower gardens and open fields
👣 Seasonal trails and kid-friendly scavenger hunts
📍 153 Chickering Rd, North Andover
🌳 METHUEN
Forest Lake
🌅 Public beach area with seasonal swimming
🚣 Canoe/kayak launch
📍 Lake St, Methuen
Greycourt State Park
🏰 Explore ruins of the old Tenney Castle
🎒 Trails for walking and exploring
📍 37 Pleasant St, Methuen
🌸 LAWRENCE
Den Rock Park
🪨 Hiking trails and rock climbing spots
🌳 Shaded areas perfect for nature exploration
📍 Off Route 114 near the Lawrence/Methuen line
Campagnone Common
🎉 Central park with splash pad, playground, and open space
🎶 Summer concerts & festivals
📍 Common St, Lawrence
🌾 HAVERHILL
Winnekenni Castle & Park
🏰 Explore the castle grounds
🌲 Over 700 acres of hiking, biking, and wooded adventure
📍 347 Kenoza Ave, Haverhill
Plug Pond Recreation Area (Lake Saltonstall)
🛶 Boating, fishing, and picnic areas
🏊 Seasonal swimming beach
📍 Sanders Rd, Haverhill
🌼 GROVELAND
Bagnall School Trails
👣 Quiet nature trails great for beginners
🦌 Wildlife spotting in peaceful surroundings
📍 253 School St, Groveland
Groveland Pines
🚴♀️ Ideal for short family bike rides and dog walking
🌲 Open spaces for play
📍 Near Main St/Route 113
🌳 GEORGETOWN
American Legion Park
🌳 Playground, trails, and seasonal splash pad
🎣 Pond for fishing and catch-and-release fun
📍 29 Pentucket St, Georgetown
Georgetown-Rowley State Forest
🚴♂️ Hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding trails
🍂 Beautiful in all seasons
📍 Access via East Main St/Route 133
🌼 MIDDLETON
Middleton Rail Trail
🚶♀️ Scenic, flat trail perfect for walking and biking
🌞 Easily accessible with benches and shaded areas
📍 Begins near Maple Street, Middleton
Howe-Manning School Playground & Fields
🎾 Public access to open play spaces and nature areas
🏃♂️ Great for kids to run, explore, and play
📍 26 Central St, Middleton
✅ Pro Tips for Parents:
- 🧴 Don’t forget sunscreen, bug spray, and water bottles!
- 🧺 Pack a picnic and make a day of it.
- 📷 Bring a nature journal or camera to document your adventure!
- 🗺️ Many parks are pet-friendly—check signage for leash rules.
Some ideas were acquired with AI
