Watson Park

Watson Park is the generous gift of Harold and Barbara Watson.  This park was formally dedicated in 2010 for the purpose of protecting and maintaining open space in a natural atmosphere for the people of Merrimack to enjoy a tranquil outdoor setting in Merrimack’s Town Center.

Bounded on the south by the Souhegan River and on the east by Baboosic Brook, Watson Park is the anchor for the planned trail system leading west along the Souhegan and north along Baboosic Brook.  A master plan has been developed for the Park with spaces set aside to tell the long history of its industrial past, as well as generous room for informal recreation. 

Three new beach volleyball courts were added to the Park in July 2019.   These are free and open for public use.  Reservations will not be accepted for their use.  Due to deed restrictions, organized leagues will not be scheduled on these courts. 

Watson Park Master Plan Map 

PARK AMENITIES:

• Picnic Pavilion available for reservation
• Picnic Tables
• Charcoal Grills
• Seasonal Ice Skating Rink (Winter Only)
• 3 Beach Volleyball Courts
• Scenic River Views
• Butterfly Garden
• 2 Children's Hopscotch Courts
• Open space for passive recreation areas

WEEKLY WATER QUALITY TESTS
Even though there is not an official swimming area at Watson Park, a number of people do swim in the river adjacent to Watson Park. Water quality samples are taken on a weekly basis beginning in June and continuing thru August of each year to ensure it is safe for swimming and results are sent to the NH Department of Environmental Services. 

The results of the weekly water quality test results for August 27, 2019 are as follows:

The Souhegan River at Watson Park is: 42.8

E. coli levels less than 88 are completely clean and would be satisfactory for swimming at a public beach. 88 to 126 is OK for healthy adults; 126 to 406 is poor and not recommended for swimming. Higher than 406 is not acceptable for swimming at all. High bacteria levels can cause swimmers ear and gastrointestinal problems, especially in children or vulnerable adults.

For additional details on water quality testing, please visit the Souhegan River Association website.

Links

 This facility is located in the center of town at, 441 Daniel Webster Highway, across the street from the Merrimack Fire Department. The pavilion is a great space to host weddings, birthday parties, or other seasonal outdoor events. Interested parties must fill out the Watson Park Pavilion Rental Application and submit it to the Parks & Recreation Department for approval. There is no fee associated with renting the pavilion but please be sure to review the parks rules and regulations to make sure it will work for your event. 

Rules & Regulations: 

• Rental is for the Pavilion Area only and does not allow for exclusive use of Watson Park. 
  
• Park Hours: One-half hour before sunrise to one-half hours after sunrise 
  
• No glass containers, alcoholic beverages, and firearms 
• Nails and/ or tacks are prohibited at the Pavilion, any decorations must be tired or taped. 
  
• Applicant is responsible for cleaning up and disposing of trash generated by the rental.
  
• ​There is one Porta Potty available at Watson Park. 
  
• Depending on the number of participants and type of event, you may be required, at your own expense, to arrange for police detail at your even