Springfield

Photo Credit: Kristine Delaney-McDaniels.

Sugar River Region Featured Community: Springfield, NH

Springfield, NH is a small and uncrowded rural town located in the northeast corner of Sullivan County in the western-central part of New Hampshire. It is a community known for its low population density (only 29 people per square mile!), its peaceful “undisturbed lifestyle” and unspoilt natural beauty, including attractions like Gile State Forest and McDaniels Marsh. Here you’ll find numerous outdoor recreational opportunities, a strong sense of community, and a commitment to preserving precious environmental resources.

Community Background

Springfield was incorporated in 1794 and has a history similar to most rural New England towns, rooted in farming and local craftsmanship. Early colonial settlers focused on agriculture, but the town has transitioned into a more residential community over the years, particularly appealing to those seeking tranquility and proximity to outdoor recreation. Historically, the workforce has been employed in small-scale manufacturing and lumber industries, with sawmills providing the majority of local jobs to this day. 

Community Facts

  • First settled by families from Portsmouth in 1769 under the name of Protectworth.
  • Incorporated in 1794 and adopted the name Springfield.
  • Population: As of the 2020 census, Springfield had a population of around 1,259 people, a 33% growth in 20 years.
  • Education: The town is part of the Kearsarge Regional School District, which serves several nearby towns.
    • Fun fact: The first school in Springfield was established in 1783 in the Loverin barn. 

Historical Residents

Check out the “Voices of Springfield” video series on the Springfield Historical Society’s website. 

Topography and Natural Resources in Springfield

Springfield is known for its scenic landscape, characterized by rolling hills, deciduous forests, Bog Brook and its tributaries, as well as a few ponds and small lakes.  Its highest point is Melvin Hill, measuring in at 2,303 feet above sea level.  The town’s elevation changes and topography give it an impressive backdrop of the surrounding New Hampshire countryside.  McDaniels Marsh, a wildlife management area, is a notable feature of the town’s geography, offering opportunities for wildlife observation and recreation. Springfield is also less than a 10 minute drive to Georges Mills at the northernmost point of Lake Sunapee, one of the region’s popular natural landmarks. But within the community boundary line, Gile State Forest is the natural resource and recreation gem.

McDaniels Marsh in Springfield NH. Image Credit: Kristine Delaney.

Gile State Forest

Located mostly in Springfield, Gile State Forest is a beautiful and expansive nature preserve of 6,675 acres. It is one of New Hampshire’s larger state forests, known for its dense and colorful woods made up of red maple, white pine, red oak, eastern hemlock, and other species. The protected area provides a peaceful setting for those  who love being among the trees, with trails for hiking and wildlife viewing.

  • The Gardner Memorial Wayside Park is part of the forest and includes a memorial to Walter C. Gardner II, whose father established Gile State Forest.
  • There are three different hiking trails in Gile State Forest that range from 147 to 685 feet in elevation gain. Check out AllTrails to find the best hike for your next trip in Gile State Forest.

Kolelemook Lake

Kolelemook Lake is the largest water body right in the center of the township. It provides year-round recreation for residents and visitors alike, including fishing, sailing, swimming, water skiing and kayaking in the warmer seasons. For winter activities, visit the lake to ice fish or skate! 

Governance in Springfield

Springfield operates under a traditional New England town government structure, featuring a Board of Selectmen. The Selectmen act as the executive branch, overseeing daily operations and addressing town matters. Town meetings, held annually, are a key feature of its local governance, allowing residents to vote on budgets, town officers, and important local issues.

Groups and Committees:

Springfield has a range of committees that contribute to its governance and community life:

    • Agriculture Commission: Supports and promotes agriculture in the community. 
    • Conservation Commission: Active in preserving and managing natural resources.
    • Energy Committee: Addresses energy efficiency, renewable energy, and sustainability in the community.
    • Garden Club: Focused on gardening, landscaping, and horticulture in Springfield. 
    • Planning Board and Zoning Board: Oversee land use and development.
    • Recreation Committee: Plans seasonal events and maintains recreational areas for the town’s residents.
    • Historical Society: Works to preserve the local history and organize events that celebrate the town’s heritage.
    • Friends of Libby Cass Library: Manage the community library, a central point for educational and social programs.
  • Friends of Fire and Rescue: Assist the fire department through fundraising, community outreach, and event organization. 
  • Kolelemook Lake Preservation Association (KLPA): dedicated to preserving and protecting the natural beauty and ecological health of Lake Kolelemook. 
  • Mascoma Valley Snow Travelers: Enhances the snowmobiling experience in the region, helping keep the sport alive while also ensuring that trails are well-maintained and safe for all users.

Springfield NH Meetinghouse. Image Credit: Sharon Callum.

Visiting or Moving to Springfield

Springfield offers a tranquil lifestyle, surrounded by natural beauty and a close-knit community that appeals to both visitors and potential new residents. Whether you’re drawn to the town’s scenic landscapes or its welcoming community spirit, Springfield provides a serene yet accessible haven for those looking to visit or relocate. It is ideal for those seeking a quiet escape or a permanent retreat from more urbanized areas.

Accessibility and Major Roads

Though somewhat secluded, Springfield is well connected by a few major routes that provide easy access to nearby towns and cities.

  • New Hampshire Route 114: The main state highway running through Springfield is New Hampshire Route 114, which links the town to communities like New London and Sunapee to the south and Grantham to the west. 
  • New Hampshire Route 4A: Another important route, New Hampshire Route 4A, offers a scenic drive through the region, running northeast-southwest and connecting Springfield with Lebanon and Andover, while also passing near Lake Kolelemook. 
  • Interstate 89 (I-89): For broader regional connectivity, Interstate 89 (I-89) crosses through the southwestern corner of Springfield, offering convenient access to both Concord to the south and Lebanon/Hanover to the north. Exits from I-89 in nearby Grantham or New London make it easy to reach Springfield by car, despite its rural setting.

Springfield Hospitality – Where to Sleep and Eat

While Springfield offers a peaceful, rural retreat, visitors looking for accommodations will likely need to find lodging options in the surrounding area. Just a short drive away in nearby towns like Sunapee, New London, and Grantham, there are a variety of inns, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals that provide a cozy stay with easy access to Springfield’s outdoor attractions. 

Protectworth Tavern in Springfield NH (on the National Register of Historic Places). Image Credit: Magicpiano. CC BY-SA 4.0.

For those who prefer to stay closer to nature, there are cabins and vacation homes available for rent near Kolelemook Lake and Gile State Forest, offering serene settings amidst the area’s scenic beauty. Five of these beautiful homestays are listed on Airbnb. 

For those interested in exploring ones inner nature, Wonderwell Mountain Refuge offers a unique accommodation option for those seeking tranquility and spiritual rejuvenation. Operated by the Natural Dharma Fellowship, this meditation and retreat center is set in a historic mansion surrounded by beautiful mountain views. Visitors can participate in a variety of meditation retreats, including solo stays, and mindfulness programs, or simply enjoy the peaceful, contemplative atmosphere.

For a traditional family lake vacation, Twin Lake Village straddles the Springfield border, on the shores of Little Lake Sunapee. It is a historic, family-owned resort offering a classic New England vacation experience. With charming cottages, guest rooms, and suites, the resort provides a range of accommodations for families, couples, and groups. Guests can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including swimming, boating, tennis, and golf, all set in a relaxing and scenic environment. Its proximity to Springfield makes Twin Lake Village an ideal option for visitors looking for a traditional resort stay with easy access to local natural attractions.

Dining options can also be found in nearby communities, where you can enjoy a mix of local New England fare, casual dining, and family-friendly restaurants. Sunapee Harbor, only 8 miles away, offers waterside dining experiences, while New London provides a variety of restaurants serving farm-to-table cuisine, classic American dishes, and international flavors. Helen’s Place in Grantham, just over a 10 min drive away, has a 4.8 star rating from its guests on Google.  Visitors looking for a relaxed meal can explore these nearby towns, which add to the region’s charming, small-town atmosphere while keeping you within easy reach of Springfield’s natural attractions.

Consider this Community

Whether you’re visiting for a day hike through Gile State Forest, planning a family outing to Kolelemook Lake, or considering a move to open a restaurant or other business in this welcoming community, Springfield NH is a great locale for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat. 

For assistance in planning your visit or exploring other attractions in the area, don’t hesitate to reach out to Discover Sugar River Region. We’re here to help you uncover the best that Springfield and its neighboring towns have to offer.