Jericho Mountain State Park in Berlin, New Hampshire, is set for a significant expansion that could enhance its appeal to outdoor enthusiasts and ATV riders. The proposed $2.5 million expansion project, utilizing federal rescue funds, aims to add a new 19-site recreational vehicle campground to the park according to an article by InDepthNH.org.
The park currently offers 60 miles of All Terrain Vehicle trails, which double as snowmobile routes in winter. It also features swimming, fishing, canoeing, and picnicking at Jericho Lake, along with a bathhouse, picnic sites with grills, and a Visitors Center. The expansion plan, to be presented to the Executive Council for approval, would complement these existing features and nearly double the park’s current camping capacity.
Brian Wilson, director of state Parks and Recreation, outlined the project’s scope in his request to the governor and Executive Council. The plan includes 19 RV sites with electrical, water, and sewer hook-ups, two new sites in the existing campground, two new camping shelters, and electrical service for five existing camping cabins.
Paula Kinney, executive director and events director for the Androscoggin Valley Chamber of Commerce, noted that the expansion could attract larger gatherings and allow visitors to stay within the city. The park’s integration with the broader “Ride the Wilds” trail system has significantly boosted its appeal to outdoor enthusiasts, with previous events drawing over 5,000 attendees.
Jericho Mountain State Park combines a 230-acre Berlin City Park tract with a 7,200-acre private parcel. Walter Elander, project manager at Horizons Engineering, highlighted the significance of the development plan, stating, “We broke some new ground in putting this development plan together.
As the Executive Council prepares to vote on this contract, the proposed expansion represents a significant opportunity for enhancing outdoor recreation in New Hampshire. If approved, this project could improve the visitor experience and boost the economic vitality of the North Country region.