The Exeter River is a 40.5-mile-long river located in Rockingham County, New Hampshire, flowing east and northeast from the town of Chester to Exeter. Its drainage basin covers 126 square miles. The lower portion situated in Exeter is commonly referred to as the Squamscott River, which serves as a tributary to the Great Bay. The Exeter River holds historical significance, with the Great Dam that once existed at its end being removed in 2016, which restored the river's natural flow. Since 1995, the river has been under the protection of the New Hampshire Rivers Management and Protection Program. Characterized by its shallow, rocky composition throughout most sections, the Exeter River provides scenic views with numerous dams and falls, making it a popular recreational destination.