Gardner Memorial Wayside Park

For a secluded spot to hike and enjoy nature, stop by Gardner Memorial Wayside Park. Located in Springfield, New Hampshire, the park is part of the 6,675 acre Gile State Forest.

Dedicated to a conservationist

This park is dedicated to Walter C. Gardner, II, the son of Gile State Forest's creator. A memorial stone is found at the entrance of the area, welcoming you to the splendor that is Gardner Memorial Wayside Park.

A beautiful place to picnic

Open year-round and charging no entrance fee, Gardner Memorial Wayside Park is a calm and relaxing place to picnic. The park offers picnic tables for your use, or you can find a comfy little spot to lay out your own picnic blanket. Sitting near the shores of Butterfield Pond is a great way to lose yourself in nature while munching on a sandwich.

Hiking through wilderness

When you have finished lunch, explore the park through some short walking trails. Remnants of an old, 1800s mill are still present, nestled amongst the trees. The park allows pets, so you are welcome to bring your dog for a bit of exercise and fresh air. There are many shallow waterways and bubbling brooks throughout the hiking area, which are great for some very memorable photos.

With no bells and whistles, Gardner Memorial Wayside Park is a simple recreation area. When you visit the park, you come to experience nature in its purest form. Whether you take a hike through the forest, along quiet streams or to the beautiful Butterfield Pond, you are sure to gain a greater appreciate for the simpler things in life. When you need a moment to escape car horns and blaring radios, visit Gardner Memorial Wayside Park.