Campton: Bridges, Forest and Water

Campton offers different ways to experience history and nature. Blair Bridge represents covered bridge engineering, while Blair Woodland Natural Area is set aside for low-impact public use. At Livermore Falls Recreation Area, river access, waterfalls and ruins dating to the 1870s come together as distinct features. Municipal buildings and a wool mill add to the historic picture. This range gives you a practical starting point when planning a vacation rental in Campton: first decide whether you are especially interested in architectural history, outdoor activities or water.

Blair Bridge: History and Construction

The original Blair Covered Bridge was built in 1829 and destroyed by arson in 1868. Blair Bridge was built in 1869 and contains original timber. At 292 feet, it is the second-largest covered bridge located entirely within New Hampshire’s borders. It is also the last surviving bridge in New Hampshire built using Long’s patented truss design. Blair Bridge thus combines a clear comparison of size with a distinctive construction history.

Nature and Low-Impact Activities

Blair Woodland Natural Area was donated to the Town of Campton in 2002 and is maintained as a natural area for wildlife and low-impact public use. Activities include nature study, walking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, picnicking and fishing. The Abenaki Trail in the area is named for the Indigenous people who lived and traveled along this river corridor. The trail’s name thus connects its focus on nature with the history of the people it refers to.

Water and History at Livermore Falls Recreation Area

Livermore Falls Recreation Area is designated as a swimming area in Campton and provides access to the Pemigewassett River for an easy float down the river. Deep, clear water and waterfalls characterize the area. Within Livermore Falls State Forest, it also includes ruins dating to the 1870s. Unlike the range of low-impact activities at Blair Woodland, water, river and historic remains are the area’s defining themes.

Municipal Buildings and Industrial History

Campton Town House was completed in 1855 and served as a town hall, library and municipal court. The Carriage House, built in 1903, houses the 1889 Town Hearse. Town House and Carriage House are currently being restored and used to host exhibitions and safely store the collections.

Several dams and bridges stood at the intersection of New Hampshire Routes 49 and 175, playing an important role in Campton’s development as well as in logging, manufacturing and recreation. Another aspect of its industrial history is the red Dole Mill below a dam. Moses Cook founded the now-inactive mill in 1820; it was one of the oldest woolen mills in the country.

Choosing the Right Focus for Your Stay

When looking for a vacation rental in Campton, you can weigh these options: outdoor activities at Blair Woodland, water and river floats at Livermore Falls, or architectural and local history as reflected in Blair Bridge and the municipal buildings. If you want to combine several interests, first decide which theme you would like to shape your vacation days the most.

More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Sugar Hill, Bethlehem, Ashland, Plymouth, Alexandria, Hebron, Canaan, Franconia.

For the main travel overview: Grafton.