Weare

Tucked away in the rolling hills of south-central New Hampshire, a series of informal swimming holes along the Piscataquog River offers something increasingly rare: genuine solitude in a beautiful natural setting. This is not a groomed beach with a parking attendant and a snack bar. This is a river the way rivers used to be — unhurried, unsupervised, and entirely your own.

The Setting and Landscape

Getting here is half the charm. You'll navigate roughly a mile of unpaved dirt road, the kind that slows you down just enough to shift your mood before you ever reach the water. Dense vegetation lines the banks, creating a canopy of green in summer and an explosion of amber, crimson, and gold come September and October. Natural rapids tumble between smooth, sun-warmed rock formations that invite you to stretch out and dry off between swims. The river corridor feels genuinely wild, with birdsong filling the air and the kind of quiet that makes you realize how loud your everyday life actually is. Wildlife sightings — herons, turtles, the occasional white-tailed deer — are a real possibility, especially if you arrive early in the morning.

The Swimming Experience

The Piscataquog River rewards those willing to explore. Water depth varies considerably from spot to spot, so you can wade in shallow riffles or seek out deeper pools where the current slows and the water collects. The river runs cool and clear, the kind of refreshing that feels restorative rather than just cold. Smooth rock ledges create natural platforms for jumping or simply sitting with your feet dangling in the current. Because this is an unofficial, unsanctioned site, there are no lifeguards or safety staff on duty — swimming here calls for good judgment, awareness of your surroundings, and a sober respect for moving water. Families with strong swimmers and solo adventurers alike make the trip, often finding they have a favorite stretch entirely to themselves. As evening falls on warm summer nights, the starlit sky overhead gives the spot a timeless, almost otherworldly quality.

Plan Your Visit

There is no fee to access this stretch of the river, though facilities are not available on-site. For restrooms, picnic areas, and other amenities, nearby Clough State Park is your best resource — plan to stop there before or after your swim. The best swimming season runs from June through August, when air and water temperatures align for a genuinely comfortable experience. Fall visits from September into October trade warm water for spectacular foliage and near-total solitude. The access road is unpaved but does not require a four-wheel-drive vehicle under normal conditions; use your judgment after heavy rain. The swimming holes are accessed via the Hopkinton-Everett Recreation Area and are situated conveniently between the towns of Weare , Dunbarton , and Concord , making it easy to combine a river afternoon with a meal or an overnight stay in the region. Pack in everything you need, pack out everything you bring, and leave this quiet corner of the Piscataquog exactly as you found it.

Directions to Swimming Holes near WEARE, NH Starting Point: Concord, NH Begin Your Journey From Concord, take Interstate 89 (I-89) westbound and exit at Exit 2 . Follow Clinton Street (Route 77) After exiting, head towards Bow and Dunbarton by turning onto Clinton Street. This road will eventually become Route 77 as you continue driving. Reach Dunbarton As you enter Dunbarton, you’ll ascend a long hill. At the top of the hill, you’ll encounter a three-way stop intersection . Proceed straight to stay on Route 77. Turn onto Ray Road A few miles past the intersection, look for Ray Road on your left . It will be across from the town transfer station . Turn left onto Ray Road. Follow Ray Road to the End Drive along Ray Road, which will transition to a dirt road about halfway through. Continue to the end of Ray Road. Enter Hopkinton-Everett Recreation Area At the end of Ray Road, you’ll see Stark Pond on your left (note: swimming is not allowed here). Turn right into the Hopkinton-Everett Recreation Area . Proceed to Clough State Park Back Entrance Follow the dirt road within the recreation area until you reach a locked gate marking the back entrance to Clough State Park . At this point, turn right to stay on the dirt road. Locate Swimming Holes Along the Road As you continue driving, you’ll notice several pull-off areas on your left side. These pull-offs provide access to various swimming holes along the river. Best Swimming Spot About one mile down the dirt road, you’ll reach a section of the river where it narrows and the water speed increases. This area offers excellent swimming opportunities. The river runs parallel to the road but is well-sheltered from view by vegetation. Additional Information: Parking: Use the pull-off areas along the dirt road to park your vehicle. Ensure your car is fully off the road to avoid obstructing traffic. Trailheads: No formal trails are necessary; the swimming holes are accessible directly from the pull-off areas. Final Approach: Walk a short distance through the vegetation to reach the riverbank. Enjoy your visit and remember to respect the natural environment!

There is no fee to access this stretch of the river, though facilities are not available on-site. For restrooms, picnic areas, and other amenities, nearby Clough State Park is your best resource — plan to stop there before or after your swim. The best swimming season runs from June through August, when air and water temperatures align for a genuinely comfortable experience. Fall visits from September into October trade warm water for spectacular foliage and near-total solitude. The access road is unpaved but does not require a four-wheel-drive vehicle under normal conditions; use your judgment after heavy rain. The swimming holes are accessed via the Hopkinton-Everett Recreation Area and are situated conveniently between the towns of Weare , Dunbarton , and Concord , making it easy to combine a river afternoon with a meal or an overnight stay in the region. Pack in everything you need, pack out everything you bring, and leave this quiet corner of the Piscataquog exactly as you found it.

Access is via the Hopkinton-Everett Recreation Area to a back road near Clough State Park. These are unofficial swimming holes with no designated facilities or supervision. Parking is at informal roadside pull-offs. Respect all posted signage and private property boundaries.

The Piscataquog River has long been a gathering place for locals, reflecting New Hampshire’s deep connection to its natural landscapes.

Follow Leave No Trace principles to protect the environment. Avoid littering and stick to established trails to minimize impact.