Fort Mcclary State Historic Site

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Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Fort McClary State Historic Site is a park located in the state of New Hampshire that offers visitors an opportunity to experience military history and enjoy outdoor activities.


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Summary

The site is named after Fort McClary, which is a historic fort that was built during the 1689-1763 colonial period and was used during the American Revolution and the War of 1812.

One of the main reasons to visit Fort McClary State Historic Site is to learn about the history of the fort and the role it played in the country's military history. Visitors can explore the fort's barracks, powder magazine, and other structures that date back to the 18th and 19th centuries.

Another interesting point of interest to see at the site is the blockhouse, which was built in the early 19th century and served as a lookout tower. Visitors can climb up to the top of the blockhouse and enjoy views of the surrounding area.

In addition to its historical significance, Fort McClary State Historic Site offers visitors a chance to hike, picnic, and fish. The park has several hiking trails that provide scenic views of the Piscataqua River. Visitors can also bring a picnic lunch and enjoy the park's picnic area, which has tables and grills available.

The best time of year to visit Fort McClary State Historic Site is during the summer months when the weather is mild and the park is open for visitors. Visitors should check the park's website for hours of operation and special events that may be taking place during their visit.

       

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Park & Land Designation Reference

National Park
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
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