New Hampshire, a state in New England, USA, is recognized as a nature lover’s dream, with over 90 state parks. It is also the location of the Great North Woods, an area rich in flora, lakes, and rivers that has remained unspoiled by human hands. Finally, Mount Washington is located in this state, making it ideal for those who enjoy the outdoors.
And because the state has done an excellent job of preserving its natural beauty, the lakes here are immaculate. When you visit, you can relax on the beach, go boating, or participate in a variety of other recreational activities. It’s not a destination you should miss out on.
To find out more about the beautiful lakes in New Hampshire, read the article below.
1. Lake Winnipesaukee – lakes in New Hampshire
Lake Winnipesaukee is the most spectacular of the 273 bodies of water in New Hampshire’s Lakes Region. The areas surrounding this 186-square-kilometer lake at the foot of the White Mountains offer a variety of activities, including tax-free shopping and exploring picturesque villages, as well as sunbathing at a public beach. Visit in the autumn to witness the spectacular fall foliage, in the winter to ski and ice fish, in the spring to taste maple sugar, and in the summer to enjoy water sports.
Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire’s largest lake, is surrounded by three mountain ranges, making it a popular tourist and resident destination. If the crystal pure waters aren’t enough, the lake is bordered by little communities, each of which has something unique to offer.
2. Squam Lake – lakes in New Hampshire
Squam Lake, well-known as the filming location for ‘On The Golden Pond,’ is a haven for many different avian and aquatic species, making it a must-see for those who enjoy wildlife. But don’t worry if you’re not here for the wildlife viewing; there’s still plenty to do because the lake is surrounded by four towns, each with something to offer visitors. There’s something here for everyone, from delicious food to visiting breweries, hiking to the summit to boating.
3. Newfound Lake – lakes in New Hampshire
Newfound Lake is the deepest lake in New Hampshire and is considered one of the cleanest lakes in the world. People flock to this lake because of its clear water and the lush greenery surrounding it, which is fed by at least eight springs. Because it is one of the quieter lakes, it is ideal for those who want to take out their boat and go fishing without being bothered by anyone. If you don’t want to go boating, you can always go for a hike or visit one of the many nature preserves that surround the lake.
4. Lake Winnisquam
With just over 4,212 acres and two islands, Lake Winnisquam is New Hampshire’s fourth largest lake. With a maximum depth of 155 feet, the lake is oligotrophic (best water quality). Winnisquam is in Belknap County, in what is known as the lakes region. The region has fantastic restaurants, shopping, museums, music venues, theaters, hiking, snowmobiling, ski resorts, art exhibits, craft fairs, and awesome attractions for everyone.
Lake Winnisquam, New Hampshire’s fourth-largest lake, is primarily fed by Lake Winnipesaukee and the Winnipesaukee River. There is one public beach near the lake where you can have a picnic with a beautiful view or use the boat launch to go boating or fishing.
5. Lake Sunapee
Lake Sunapee, New Hampshire’s sixth largest lake, is centrally placed, making it easy to reach and very convenient, particularly for tourists. With Mount Sunapee nearby, there are a variety of recreational activities available in this area, including kayaking and zip-lining, which are not available everywhere. If you don’t want to go that far, you may always walk to the top of Mt. Kearsarge. There are so many alternatives. Tourism in the Lake Sunapee area has a long history, dating back to the mid-1800s with the advent of steamboats and trains. Around the lake during the time, there were many Grand Hotels and a few private mansions catering to the wealthy.
6. Ossipee Lake
Ossipee Lake, located in the northeastern portion of New Hampshire, is noted for being a calm spot ideal for individuals who enjoy fishing. But don’t worry, there are more things to do at this lake. Visitors to Ossipee Lake, which is surrounded by three bridges, can just enjoy the scenery while enjoying a picnic. They can also go hiking or biking on the many well-kept trails.
This location is ideal for cross-country skiing, ice fishing, and ice skating in the winter. The West Branch River, Bearcamp River, Lovell River, and Pine River all feed into the lake. The lake’s water drains into the Ossipee River, which feeds into the Saco River in Maine.
7. Lake Wentworth
Wentworth Falls Lake was formed by damming Jamison Creek to provide water for the steam train. The Lake today supports a variety of native and introduced birds, native fish such as Gudgeons, and water bugs such as freshwater crayfish, freshwater shrimp, and dragonfly nymphs. The lake is good for kayaks and canoes but not for motorized watercraft.
Wentworth Falls Lake is one of the District Parks managed by the Blue Mountains City Council. It is also a popular picnic location, featuring barbeque facilities and a smoke-free play area for all ages. There are several pleasant short walks around the lakeshore, including pathways suited for wheelchairs and children’s bikes. Pathways can be joined together to form a 30-minute loop walk using residential streets.
8. Umbagog Lake
Umbagog Lake, located in Coös County, is a wilderness lake and one of New Hampshire’s most pristine lakes. It features huge wetland complexes that provide ideal habitat for many waterfowl and other animal species. While fishing and boating are permitted, visitors are always encouraged to respect the animals’ homes and only observe them from a distance. This lake is home to Common Loons, a bird species that is now considered vulnerable, making sightings rare.
9. Lake Kanasatka
Lake Kanasatka, formerly known as ‘Long Pond,’ is located in Carroll County. It was also known as Quinebarge Pond or Lake Quinebarge. This lake is most renowned for its fishing because it is home to a variety of fish species such as largemouth and smallmouth bass, white perch, sunfish, and many others. Even if you don’t like fishing, coming down to the lake for the sunset view is always worthwhile, with every hue of the sun reflected on the pure water.
10. Spofford Lake
Since the late 1800s, Spofford Lake has been a popular leisure location. Summers were spent here by actor-comedian George Carlin, New Yorker cartoonist Leo Cullum, and Saturday Night Live director Dave “Wacky” Wilson as children.
The north end of the lake is mostly flanked by private residences and features a resident-only beach. Wares Grove beach, which has a public boat ramp and hiking trails, is located on the lake’s southern shore.
There are cabins, cottages, and camping grounds on the south side, in addition to a public beach. The east side of the lake has a golf course (Grove Springs Country Club), while the northeast side has the Spofford Yacht Club.
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