The best parks & outdoor spots in Rockingham County

If you need a quick dose of green without leaving town, Carey Cottage at Creek Farm sits beside conserved open space with public access to Sagamore Creek. It’s a mellow spot to clear your head, stretch the legs, and remember why we live here.

From the Portsmouth newsletter, September 25, 2026

Schafer Woods packs 141 acres of well-loved paths in Atkinson, including over two miles of trails he built and a charming covered bridge over Hogg Hill Brook. Quiet, tidy, and wildlife rich, it’s the kind of close-to-home loop you’ll revisit when you need quick woods therapy.

From the Salem newsletter, September 12, 2026

When you need a reset between errands or a spot to let the kids burn off steam, Rock Street Park delivers a neighborhood playground, a hoop for a quick shootaround, and just enough green to make you forget email exists for a minute.

From the Portsmouth newsletter, October 16, 2026

Reimagined in 2025, South Mill Pond Playground is the neighborhood spot to let the kids burn energy by the water while you catch five and trade small talk with half of Portsmouth. Pop over this week for an easy reset that feels close, familiar, and reliably fun.

From the Portsmouth newsletter, October 9, 2026

Prescott Park is showing off along the waterfront right now with its Liberty Gardens, formal beds around the giant anchor and Cabot Lyford’s Whale, plus a living catalog of summer color that pulls in butterflies and camera rolls. Plant nerds, seasonal garden tours run through August 21.

From the Portsmouth newsletter, October 2, 2026