Jericho Mountain State Park Now New & Improved, by UpStateNH.com

Improvements Made at Jericho Mountain State Park.

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NH News Article: Improvements Made at Jericho Mountain State Park

Improvements Made at
Jericho Mountain State Park

by Dan Crawford

Jericho Mountain State Park, New Hampshire's newest state park, is located about five miles west of downtown Berlin . The 7200 acre park has areas devoted to traditional activities such as swimming and fishing, but also places emphasis on trail activities including snowmobiling and ATV riding.

Some improvements are ready now, but more will follow for 2013.

The new Visitor's Center, with its cathedral ceiling was built by students in the Vocational Arts program at Berlin-Gorham High School. "The students have built commercial buildings in the past," says Chris Gamanche, Program Specialist for the New Hampshire Bureau of Trails. "As far as I know, this is their first public space. They did nearly everything here but the metal roof." The building has a commanding view of the beach and the surrounding mountains. The stone work was completed by local artisans. A mural, donated by National Off-Highway Vehicle Conservation Council in Montana, will installed in the great room.

There are also lodging improvements to the campground for 2012. Five new cabins overlook the lake, and will sleep four adults easily, and up to six if, needed. There will be two sets of bunk beds in each unit, plus a futon. Electricity will be available in 2013. The cabins will be completed by mid-summer, and reservations will be accepted beginning at the end of July 2012. Cabins will be available for $50 per night, and campsites for $23 per night.

In addition to the cabins are nine campsites designed for larger trailers and motor homes, and 20 conventional campsites. A brand new septic system is being completed, and the bath houses will be available in 2013.

There is an event area, which includes a mud area, and open area that can be used for a variety of activities.

There have been some obstacles in finding a contractor to manage the park, in accordance with a proposed 20 year contract.

Downturns in the economy and contract details have hampered the progress in procuring a contractor.

Jericho Lake is the result of the construction of an earthen dam for flood control in 1969, which included the original recreation area. In its 40 years of operation, the park has grown and transformed to a well-known center for trail enthusiasts. "Our guest book lists visitors from 22 states, and twelve countries, including England, Ireland and Belgium," says Chris Gamanche. "We have nearly 80 miles of trails available, and the word gets around."

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