How to Become a Park Ranger in New Hampshire

Park rangers in New Hampshire have a great duty to take care of the state parks.

They are the guardians of natural resources and animal life.

They are also responsible for ensuring that state park visitors enjoy their visits, stay safe, and want to keep coming back.

It takes a special kind of individual to be a great park ranger.

If you think this is something you would enjoy, read on to explore what this career is all about.

What It Takes to Become a State Park Ranger in New Hampshire

You need to be at least 21 years of age to be a park ranger in New Hampshire.

This works well because they also require at least an Associate’s degree in natural resources, forestry, fire science, or criminal justice.

For those seeking supervisory positions, a Bachelor’s degree is preferred.

Candidates must pass several tests.

They need to pass background checks, drug screenings, a strength and agility test, and a medical exam.

Candidates must also show proficiency in police training, forest fire fighting, and a working knowledge of first aid and CPR.

Duties of a New Hampshire Park Ranger

Park rangers in New Hampshire spend a great deal of time patrolling trails and campgrounds.

They are tasked with making sure park regulations are adhered to.

They also make sure the natural resources and animals that reside in the parks are kept safe.

Rangers prepare and deliver educational programs.

This can be at the park itself or out in the community.

They answer questions for park visitors, administer first aid and CPR if needed, and help if an injured animal is found.

They often lead special hikes or facilitate special programs throughout the year.

State parks in New Hampshire

1. Franconia Notch State Park

Located in a pass between the peaks of the Franconia and Kinsman Mountain ranges, this state park offers many of the traditional activities, as well as many special features.

Visitors can walk the boardwalk around the Flame Gorge, visit the Basin, which features water cascading 15 feet depth, study the wonder of the Boise Rock, or take a tram ride up to the 4200-foot summit, where there is an observation deck, gift shop, and cafeteria.

Other activities include visiting a covered bridge, winter skiing, rock climbing, and fishing.

After a stroll through educational programs and a guided nature walk, set up camp at one of the 97 campsites.

2. Pawtuckaway State Park

This state park is 5000 acres in Nottingham.

It features a family beach that is part of the 783-acre lake.

The lake has many coves and islands to explore.

There are 192 campsites and five cabins that are fully furnished.

The cabins sleep six people each and have all the amenities.

The majority of activities center around the water, such as boating and swimming.

In the winter, snowmobiling and skiing are popular.

The more adventurous visitors enjoy rock climbing.

Visiting the 900-foot summit allows visitors to explore a mountain fire tower.

Finally, a visit to the marsh is ideal for animal lovers.

3. Ahern State Park

Ahern State Park is one of the few that doesn’t offer camping facilities or full-time staff.

This 128-acre property includes 3500 feet of shoreline.

Activities that visitors enjoy include fishing, bicycling, hiking, boating, and skiing in the winter.

4. Forest Lake State Park

This state park is one of the original ten state parks.

It covers 397 acres, 200 feet of which are beach.

Visitors enjoy fishing, picnicking, swimming, and boating.

They also enjoy canoeing, kayaking, and mountain biking.

5. White Lake State Park

This glacial lake park has a foot path around it that allows visitors of all abilities to enjoy the water.

There are a multitude of water birds to see, and beavers are often present.

Renting boats and fishing are two popular activities, as are having a picnic and simply relaxing.

The campgrounds are located in a 72-acre pine stand.

Schools Summary Table

	Rank	School
	#1	University of New Hampshire

Park Ranger Salary in New Hampshire

The average salary of a New Hampshire park ranger is $14.64 an hour.

Throughout the state parks, salaries range from $25,688 to $55,524 a year, as well as having benefits.

The average annual salary is $41,352.

The amount of salary a park ranger earns is based on several factors, such as where the park is located and how much time a ranger has been at the job.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do New Hampshire park rangers get pensions?

Yes, one of the benefits received by retired park rangers is a pension.

Park rangers get some of the best benefits available to workers.

How many state parks are there in New Hampshire?

There are 75 state parks in New Hampshire.

They range from mountain areas to lakes and more.

There is truly a park for any interest within the state.

What is the salary of a New Hampshire park ranger?

The average salary of a New Hampshire park ranger is $14.64 an hour.

Throughout the state parks, salaries range from $25,688 to $55,524 a year, as well as having benefits.

The average annual salary is $41,352.

The amount of salary a park ranger earns is based on several factors, such as where the park is located and how much time a ranger has been at the job.

Do New Hampshire park rangers need degrees?

New Hampshire park rangers need to have at least an Associate’s degree, while those seeking supervisory positions need at least a Bachelor’s degree.

Experience is also a plus.

What special skills do New Hampshire park rangers need?

New Hampshire park rangers must have police training, firefighting training, especially forest firefighting, and certification in first aid and CPR.

Some also need a life-guard certificate.