New Hampshire
Nature|Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

13 Gorgeous Lakes in New Hampshire That You Must Check Out This Summer

New Hampshire boasts numerous beautiful lakes, each offering unique features and activities.

Updated Jun 3, 2022

Written by 

Kelly A. Burch

New Hampshire is full of lakes. When the glaciers receded from the Granite State, they carved the mountains and lakes that now make New Hampshire the envy of the rest of the country. With crisp, clear water that goes for miles and miles, our lakes are simply the best. From the largest in the state to some of the smallest, here are the 13 best New Hampshire lakes you'll want to check out:

1. Lake Francis

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Stephen Bugno/flickr

Located in far northern New Hampshire, this lake is actually the start of the Connecticut River.

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2. Bow Lake

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Stephanie Rogers/flickr

Bow Lake is large, with deep water, making it a perfect destination for fishermen and boaters. Bow Lake also has a something of a haunted past.

3. Umbagog Lake

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Catherine Bligh/flickr

Spanning the border between New Hampshire and Maine, this marshy lake is a popular fishing spot.

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4. Lake Winnipesaukee

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Andrew Walker/flickr

Covering 71 square miles and containing 258 islands, Lake Winnipesaukee is the largest lake in New Hampshire and perhaps also the best lake in New Hampshire, making it the crown jewel of The Lakes Region.

5. Newfound Lake

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Doug Kerr/flickr

Newfound Lake is beautiful even on a dreary day.

6. Echo Lake

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Robert Linsdell/flickr

Located in Echo Lake State Park in Conway, this beautiful lake with a gorgeous view of Cathedral Ledge is a must see.

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7. Highland Lake

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Jeff-O-Matic/flickr

Located in southwestern New Hampshire Near Keene, Highland lake is a popular spot.

8. Lonesome Lake

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Neil Hunt/flickr

This tiny lake tucked into the White Mountains is especially picturesque. Check out this awesome trail at Lonesome Lake.

9. Lake Massabesic

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Kevin Micalizzi/flickr

This large lake is located right near Manchester, making it easily accessible for many people in New Hampshire. There is also a neat hiking trail that around the lake.

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10. Ossipee Lake

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Nick Wells/flickr

This lake near the Maine border has absolutely breathtaking sunsets.

11. Pawtuckaway Lake

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Gerald Azenaro/flickr

This small lake in the south of the state in Rockingham county is charming and easily accessible through Pawtuckaway State Park, which features a large sandy beach.

12. Squam Lake

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Chuck Taylor/flickr

This serene lake – a smaller neighbor of Winnipesaukee – is where is the 1981 movie "On Golden Pond," featuring Katherine Hepburn, Henry Fonda and Jane Fonda was filmed. Check out the lake here for more visitor information before going.

13. Lake Wentworth

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Doug Kerr/flickr

The people who love this smaller body of water in the Lakes Region will tell you that size does not matter.

Well there you have it, the best new Hampshire Lakes. Do you agree? Can you think of other lakes in new Hampshire that deserve to be on this list? Let us know below in the comments section.

Also check out these best beaches in New Hampshire that are perfect for summer trips in NH.

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Nature|Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

The 136-Mile Long Lazy River In New Hampshire Where You’ll Find Us All Summer Long

Published Jul 12, 2024

Written by 

Ken MacGray

I admit I'm not a big swimmer, but I do love being near water! Fortunately, New Hampshire is graced with many wonderful water features like lakes, ponds, rivers, brooks, and waterfalls. Chances are you don't have to go far to visit one of these natural areas of beauty. Once summer arrives and the temps heat up, getting to the nearest water source for some natural cooling is a must. One New Hampshire river, the Saco River, has been a source of recreation for centuries and it will definitely keep you cool.

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New Hampshire's Saco River begins at the tiny Saco Lake in Crawford Notch. This small body of water doesn't look like it could feed such a long river.

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Public Domain/Wikimedia Commons

The river travels 136 miles through New Hampshire and Maine, eventually emptying into Saco Bay and then the Atlantic Ocean.

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Doug Kerr/Wikimedia Commons

In between, the river has long been used for industry, transport, and recreation. All along its length are spots where you can enjoy its waters.

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Doug Kerr/Wikimedia Commons

The river winds its way downhill from the White Mountains in one of the most scenic areas of the state. Even if you don't take a dip, simply enjoying the views is pleasant.

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Ken MacGray/Google Photos

The Saco is a boater's paradise. There are numerous public access points to put in and paddle or simply float downstream.

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Saco Canoe Rental Company/Facebook

The river remains a popular site for recreation, attracting thousands of people each summer to its busiest sections. But with a little exploring, you can find quieter, out-of-the-way spots to enjoy.

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kelsey ferreira/All Trails

As with all large waterways, the Saco River can also be dangerous and should be respected. It is prone to flooding and several major flooding events have occurred in recent years.

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Ken MacGray/Google Photos

Now that summer has arrived and the heat is on, this New Hampshire river is the place to be! For more information on what there is to do along the Saco River, visit northconway.nh.com. You can also download an environmental fact sheet (PDF) on the river from the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services. Remember to be safe on the water and have fun!

The Saco River is just one river that shapes New Hampshire. Learn about more of our interesting waterways below!

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/new-hampshire/rivers-nh/

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Nature|Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

5 Lazy Rivers In New Hampshire That Are Perfect For Tubing On A Summer’s Day

Discover alternative rivers in New Hampshire for a relaxing tubing experience away from the crowds.

Updated Jul 3, 2024

Written by 

Rachel

Tubing in New Hampshire is one of the best ways to while away the heat during the sticky months. This is an activity where you can find a little adventure and some relaxation all wrapped up in one. While there are several destinations for tubing in our great state, let's take a look at these five lazy rivers in New Hampshire!

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1. Pemigewasset River

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Robert Linsdell/Flickr

The "Pemi" originates in Franconia Notch State Park and flows south until it merges with the Merrimack River in Franklin. It's a quiet river in the state, and the stretch between North Woodstock and Bristol is especially good for river tubing New Hampshire, with plenty of places to start your journey.

And for an organized tubing trip, consult the Pemi River Campground website where you might find a reason to stay for a while.

2. Baker River

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Robbie Shade/Flickr

Baker River starts at Mount Moosilauke and joins the Pemigewassett - and like the Pemi, it's one of the most fun places to go tubing in New Hampshire. Lots of outfitters offer rentals for both rivers.

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Look into renting a tube for the Pemi and Baker Rivers on the Plymouth Ski & Sports website. Canoe and Kayak rentals are also available for the Newfound or Squam lakes in the White Mountains of Central New Hampshire.

3. Ammonoosuc River

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Jasperdo/Flickr

The Ammonoosuc, a tributary of the Connecticut, flows from Mount Washington to Woodsville. It's another great river for water tubing in New Hampshire - start in Bretton Woods for lovely views.

The staff at the Twin River Campground can start your tubing expedition in the center of Bath, just behind the historic Brick Store. Discover more on the Twin River Campground website.

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4. Connecticut River

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Peter Rintels/Flickr

The Connecticut River creates New Hampshire's border in Vermont, and sections of it - like the slow-moving Upper Valley section - are great for tubing. It's an idyllic place and one of the best floats in New Hampshire.

Great River Outfitters in Vermont offers tubing trips in New Hampshire that are available on its website.

5. Contoocook River

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Glass_House/Flickr

Starting at the Jaffrey/Rindge border, the Contoocook River river flows all the way down to the Merrimack. Some sections are faster but there are nice peaceful areas for tubing too. Check out the Contoocook River Canoe Co. website for rental information.

Tubing in New Hampshire is the best way to spend a sunny day. Where do you like to float? Shout it out in the comments below!

If you'd like to spend more time outdoors, consider taking one of these summer day trips in New Hampshire. And check out the lovely choices on Vrbo to spend the night.

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/new-hampshire/nh-day-trips/

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