Franklin Falls Dam is located in New Hampshire on the Pemigewasset River. The dam and reservoir were primarily created for flood control, though there are also many recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and hiking. The dam, Shaw Cove, and Profile Falls are recreational areas that offer visitors many activities and amenities to enjoy.
Franklin Falls Dam covers 3900-acres of river valley. It is surrounded by forest, providing a home for many different types of wildlife. While out exploring hiking and biking trails such as the Pine Point Nature Trail, keep an eye out for the many birds, deer, and other animals living in the woods and along the river. Hunting and fishing are popular activities and the area is regularly stocked with a variety of fish and game birds. During the winter, bring along your snowmobiles and cross-country skis to explore the snow-covered trails.
The recreation areas at Franklin Falls provide many activities for visitors to enjoy throughout the year. However, there are no campsites for those looking to stay overnight. Pillsbury and Pawtuckaway state parks are both less than an hour's drive and have many campsites large enough for RVs or trailers. Leashed pets are welcome at both the dam and the state parks.
Franklin Falls Dam is located in Franklin, New Hampshire on the Pemigewasset River. Many day-use recreation areas around the dam and reservoir offer visitors a variety of amenities including picnic areas and boat ramps. Depending on which amenities and points of interest they plan to enjoy, visitors may need to drive between the different recreation areas.
Franklin Falls can easily be accessed from state highways as well as US-3. There are many towns and small cities neighboring the dam and reservoir that offer a number of services and supplies, including food, lodging, and gas.
Camping is not offered at Franklin Falls Dam, but there are two state parks within an hour away. Both Pillsbury State Park and Pawtuckaway State Park have primitive campsites which can accommodate RVs and trailers.
A 40-mile drive from Franklin Falls Dam, Pillsbury State Park Campground has primitive campsites. While there are no hookups, many of the campsites can fit an RV or travel trailer. Water spigots are located throughout the campground, so you won’t need to go far from your site for water. Open from May to October, the park does accept reservations. Additional campground amenities include fire rings, picnic tables, and firewood available for purchase.
About 50 miles from Franklin Falls Dam is Pawtuckaway State Park. The campground has 195 campsites, some of which can accommodate RVs up to 38 feet in length. The campsites are primitive, none having electric, water, or sewer hookups. Each campsite has a fire ring and picnic table. Water spigots are located throughout the campground. This campground has restrooms and showers.
Most of the 195 campsites are reservable, but 15 are set aside on a first-come, first-served basis. The campground is open from May to October each year.
Spend the day out on the water exploring the Pemigewasset River. The calm waters are perfect for those with canoes or kayaks to explore the shoreline. Keep an eye out for wildlife in the surrounding forest or near the water’s edge. It isn’t hard to find boat access at Franklin Falls. Canoes and kayaks can easily be launched at Profile Falls, Shaw Cove, or Coolidge Woods. Those with motorboats can use the boat ramp at Shaw Cove.
Hiking is popular at Franklin Falls Dam. Many of the trails run along the Pemigewasset River, providing lush vegetation and an excellent wildlife viewing opportunity. The 1.8-mile long Pine Point Nature Trail is one of the dam’s most popular. Located downstream from the dam, hikers can enjoy scenic views while venturing along this loop trail. Each point of interest along the trail has a nearby interpretive sign, teaching visitors about the area.
Bikes are allowed on all trails at Franklin Falls. The trail system was designed with bikes in mind and was developed by the New England Mountain Bike Association. Keep in mind that the trails are multi-use and watch out for those on foot. The trails provide bike riders with a variety of options that vary in length and skill level.
Franklin Falls Dam is a great spot to enjoy a picnic on a warm spring or summer day. Many shady spots are located around the reservoir and recreation areas, including at Profile Falls, Periwinkle Field, the dam, and Overlook.
While the picnic areas at the dam and Profile Falls have grills, the other areas do not. If planning to have a picnic during your visit, bring along extra water and napkins. There is no running water at any of the picnic areas.
Many different types of wildlife live in the forests surrounding Franklin Falls, attracting hunters each year. Hunting for deer, pheasant, and small game is allowed during the season. The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department stocks upland game birds and runs a furbearer trapping program. Many popular hunting spots can be accessed from Profile Falls Recreation Area.
Those hoping to fish will not be disappointed. Franklin Falls is regularly stocked with a variety of fish. Anglers who fish from the shore or by boat may reel in various types of bass, trout, and even Atlantic Salmon. A New Hampshire freshwater fishing license is required to fish at any of the lakes or rivers. If planning to fish, don’t forget to pack or pick up a license along the way.
During the snowy winter months, visitors to the dam can enjoy cross-country skiing and snowmobiling on the trails. All trails are multi-use, so be sure to keep an eye out for others enjoying the snow-blanketed land. About 14 minutes north of Franklin Falls Dam is Profile Falls. Each winter, Profile Falls is host to a dog-sledding event, attracting visitors from near and far.
