Northwood Wildlife Area wilderness guide
Wildlife Area · NH

Northwood Wildlife Area

Northwood Wildlife Area is a diverse natural habitat in New Hampshire offering excellent opportunities for wildlife observation, hunting, and outdoor recreation across wetlands, forests, and open fields.

Wildlife Area1,6844+ Trails

Designation

Wildlife Area

Total Wilderness Area

1,684

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Northwood Wildlife Area

Northwood Wildlife Area is a diverse natural habitat in New Hampshire offering excellent opportunities for wildlife observation, hunting, and outdoor recreation across wetlands, forests, and open fields.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

The Northwood Wildlife Area spans approximately 1,684 acres in Rockingham County, New Hampshire, representing a blend of forested uplands, freshwater wetlands, and open grasslands that support a wide variety of wildlife species. Managed primarily for wildlife habitat preservation and game management, the area features northern hardwood forests and spruce-fir stands that create excellent cover and breeding grounds for species including white-tailed deer, black bear, wild turkey, and waterfowl. Wetland complexes within the area provide critical habitat for amphibians, reptiles, and migratory birds. Public access to the Northwood Wildlife Area is geared toward hunting, bird watching, hiking, and nature photography. Established by the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, this protected area emphasizes both conservation and recreation, offering trails and open spaces for outdoor enthusiasts. The landscape includes a mix of gentle rolling hills and low-lying marshy areas, with a network of primitive roads and trails that allow visitors to explore the diverse ecosystems. Seasonal hunting is a key activity here, including deer, turkey, and small game seasons, making it a popular destination for hunters. The area is less developed for intensive recreation, offering a quiet and natural setting for people seeking solitude and wildlife encounters. Due to its habitat diversity and accessibility, Northwood Wildlife Area also serves as a valuable location for environmental education and wildlife research projects. Visitors will find ample opportunity to experience New England’s forest and wetland ecosystems in a protected setting with minimal infrastructure but rich natural resources.

Field Guide · Wildlife Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Northwood Wildlife Area

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Extensive wetland habitat ideal for bird watching and amphibian study✦ Mixed northern hardwood and conifer forest supporting diverse wildlife✦ Seasonal hunting opportunities for white-tailed deer and wild turkey✦ Quiet, undeveloped trails providing solitude and wildlife viewing
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Northwood Wildlife Area

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Northwood Wildlife Area
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Northwood Wildlife Area
Park Recreation

Hunting

Available in Northwood Wildlife Area
Park Recreation

Bird Watching

Available in Northwood Wildlife Area
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Northwood Wildlife Area
Park Recreation

Snowshoeing

Available in Northwood Wildlife Area
Park Recreation

Cross-Country Skiing

Available in Northwood Wildlife Area
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Northwood Wildlife Area.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free public access; hunting permits and licenses required during hunting seasons

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Northwood Wildlife Area

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Deerfield, New Hampshire
⌖ 2.88 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Deerfield, New Hampshire

Deerfield is a quiet New Hampshire town perfect for outdoor lovers seeking peaceful hiking, paddling, and cross-country skiing without the crowds. Explore robust forests, calm waters, and enjoy local wildlife year-round.

Spring through Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for cross-country skiing
Explore Town
Northwood, New Hampshire
⌖ 3.50 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Northwood, New Hampshire

Northwood, NH is a quiet town ideal for paddlers, hikers, and nature lovers seeking gently rolling trails, calm lakes, and peaceful forest escapes in a rural New England setting.

Late Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Nottingham, New Hampshire
⌖ 4.55 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Nottingham, New Hampshire

Nottingham, NH offers quiet lakeside paddling, gentle hiking trails, and excellent winter snow sports. With Pawtuckaway State Park nearby, it’s a peaceful spot for outdoor lovers seeking forest, water, and seasonal adventure.

Late Spring through Fall; Winter for snow sports
Explore Town
Raymond, New Hampshire
⌖ 7.67 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Raymond, New Hampshire

Raymond, NH, is a peaceful town perfect for outdoor lovers seeking hiking, paddling, and biking surrounded by lakes and forests. Its quiet trails and water access make it a great spot for relaxed adventures year-round.

Spring through Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for cross-country skiing
Explore Town
Lee, New Hampshire
⌖ 8.67 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Lee, New Hampshire

Lee, New Hampshire is a quiet town with easy access to the Lamprey River, local hiking, and winter skiing. Ideal for travelers seeking laid-back paddling, birding, and outdoor exploration away from crowds.

Spring through Fall for paddling and hiking; Winter for cross-country skiing
Explore Town
Epping, New Hampshire
⌖ 9.23 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Epping, New Hampshire

Epping, NH, is a calm town with easy access to hiking, paddling, and nature watching along peaceful rivers and forests. Ideal for travelers seeking quiet outdoor adventures and seasonal winter trails.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Northwood Wildlife Area

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Sunset Wagons Through Lee’s Sunflower Fields
ADVEXPEDITION
Lee, New Hampshire
HorseADV Bookable

Sunset Wagons Through Lee’s Sunflower Fields

A single-evening, 30-minute horse-drawn wagon ride at Coppal House Farm on July 31, 2025, offering families and nature lovers a chance to see the season’s sunflowers at sunset.

HorsePT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
All-Day Pedal and Lesson Through Freedom’s Quiet Backcountry
ADVEXPEDITION
Freedom, New Hampshire
Bike TourADV Bookable

All-Day Pedal and Lesson Through Freedom’s Quiet Backcountry

A private 5–8 hour bicycle tour and riding lesson in Freedom, New Hampshire — learn to ride and explore rolling backcountry roads, rail trails and designated bike paths in groups up to eight.

Bike TourPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip