Norton Pool Preserve
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 5, 2025
The Norton Pool Preserve is a natural area located in the state of New Hampshire that offers visitors a unique and peaceful experience.
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Summary
There are several reasons to visit the preserve, including its pristine beauty, diverse wildlife, and scenic hiking trails. Some of the specific points of interest to see include the Norton Pool, which is a crystal-clear pond that is perfect for swimming and fishing, as well as the nearby forests and wetlands that are home to a wide variety of animals and plants.
One interesting fact about the Norton Pool Preserve is that it was donated to the town of Rindge by the Norton family in 1968, with the stipulation that it be preserved in its natural state for future generations to enjoy. Today, the preserve is managed by a local non-profit organization, and visitors can take guided tours, attend educational programs, and participate in other activities that help to promote conservation and environmental awareness.
The best time of year to visit the Norton Pool Preserve is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the water is perfect for swimming and other water-based activities. However, visitors should be aware that the preserve is only open to the public on certain days of the week, so it is important to check the schedule before planning a visit. Overall, the Norton Pool Preserve is a must-see destination for anyone who loves nature and wants to experience the beauty of New Hampshire's natural landscape.
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Park & Land Designation Reference
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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