Top 25 Lakes to Visit in New Hampshire
June 26, 2024
New Hampshire’s Lakes Region is one of the most scenic and activity-rich areas in New England. While Lake Winnipesaukee may be the most famous, the state is home to dozens of stunning lakes, each offering unique opportunities for swimming, boating, fishing, and relaxation. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful paddle through quiet coves or a bustling lakeside town with restaurants and marinas, New Hampshire’s lakes have something for everyone.
Here’s a complete list of the top 25 lakes in New Hampshire — including how far each one is from Belleau Lake to help you plan your next trip.
Lake Winnipesaukee (30 miles from Belleau Lake)
Lake Winnipesaukee is New Hampshire’s largest lake, stretching over 71 square miles with more than 250 islands. Its size and diversity make it one of the most popular lakes for both recreation and relaxation.
- Best For: Boating, swimming, fishing, and lakeside dining
- Highlights:
- Weirs Beach for swimming and family fun
- Mount Major for one of the best lake views in the state
- Multiple marinas and public boat launches
Lake Winnipesaukee is lively in the summer but offers quieter areas like Alton Bay and Melvin Village for those seeking a more peaceful experience.
Belleau Lake (Right at your doorstep)
Belleau Lake in Wakefield offers a peaceful, residential atmosphere. Its smaller size and calm water make it ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing.
- Best For: Relaxation, paddleboarding, and fishing
- Highlights:
- Calm, glassy water — perfect for morning paddles
- Great fishing for bass and perch
- Less crowded than larger lakes
Great East Lake (5 miles from Belleau Lake)
Great East Lake sits on the New Hampshire-Maine border and is known for its deep, clear water and excellent fishing. The lake’s remote location and tree-lined shores create a peaceful setting for boating and swimming.
- Best For: Fishing, motorized boating, and kayaking
- Highlights:
- Stocked with trout and bass
- Minimal boat traffic makes it perfect for paddleboarding
Lovell Lake (7 miles from Belleau Lake)
Lovell Lake is a smaller, family-friendly lake near the town of Sanbornville. Its shallow, sandy bottom makes it great for swimming and wading.
- Best For: Swimming and tubing
- Highlights:
- Small public beach with lifeguards
- Excellent water quality
- Calm waters for paddleboarding
Province Lake (9 miles from Belleau Lake)
Province Lake is a shallow, sandy-bottomed lake located on the New Hampshire-Maine border. Its clear, warm water makes it popular for swimming and paddleboarding.
- Best For: Family-friendly swimming
- Highlights:
- Shallow areas ideal for kids
- Easy access to public beaches
Pine River Pond (8 miles from Belleau Lake)
Pine River Pond is a narrow, winding lake known for its quiet coves and clear water. Its calm surface makes it ideal for paddleboarding and fishing.
- Best For: Fishing and kayaking
- Highlights:
- Excellent bass fishing
- Peaceful atmosphere
Lake Wentworth (18 miles from Belleau Lake)
Lake Wentworth is located in Wolfeboro and offers clear water, sandy shores, and easy access to hiking trails and dining in town.
- Best For: Boating, paddleboarding, and swimming
- Highlights:
- Bass and trout fishing
- Public beach with picnic areas
Ossipee Lake (12 miles from Belleau Lake)
Ossipee Lake is one of the larger lakes in the region, known for its sandy beaches and boating-friendly atmosphere.
- Best For: Boating, jet skiing, and beach days
- Highlights:
- Danforth Bay for family swimming
- Public boat launches
Merrymeeting Lake (22 miles from Belleau Lake)
Merrymeeting Lake is a spring-fed lake known for its clear water and great fishing opportunities.
- Best For: Sailing, fishing, and swimming
- Highlights:
- Trout and salmon fishing
- Sailing-friendly breezes
Winnisquam Lake (30 miles from Belleau Lake)
Winnisquam Lake is the fourth-largest lake in New Hampshire, offering a good mix of recreation and relaxation.
- Best For: Boating and fishing
- Highlights:
- Lake House Grille for waterfront dining
- Public beaches and boat launches
Crystal Lake (16 miles from Belleau Lake)
Crystal Lake is small and peaceful, known for its calm waters and clear visibility.
- Best For: Swimming and paddleboarding
- Highlights:
- Quiet atmosphere
- Sandy-bottomed swimming areas
Conway Lake (15 miles from Belleau Lake)
Conway Lake is known for its scenic views and fishing. Its remote location gives it a peaceful feel.
- Best For: Canoeing and fishing
- Highlights:
- Bass and perch fishing
- Remote and less crowded
Newfound Lake (45 miles from Belleau Lake)
Newfound Lake is one of the cleanest lakes in the state, fed by underground springs.
- Best For: Swimming and diving
- Highlights:
- Wellington State Park for beach access
- Excellent trout and salmon fishing
Lake Sunapee (50 miles from Belleau Lake)
Lake Sunapee offers sandy beaches, boating, and a charming harbor atmosphere.
- Best For: Boating and sailing
- Highlights:
- Sunapee Harbor for shopping and dining
- Mount Sunapee for hiking and ziplining
Echo Lake (25 miles from Belleau Lake)
Echo Lake is part of Echo Lake State Park, with calm water surrounded by cliffs and forest.
- Best For: Swimming and kayaking
- Highlights:
- Easy trails around the lake
- Shallow water for kids
Dan Hole Pond (10 miles from Belleau Lake)
Dan Hole Pond is a small, deep lake known for its quiet atmosphere and great fishing.
- Best For: Fishing and kayaking
- Highlights:
- Small but scenic
- Quiet and low boat traffic
White Lake (20 miles from Belleau Lake)
White Lake is part of White Lake State Park, known for its sandy beach and family-friendly atmosphere.
- Best For: Swimming and picnicking
- Highlights:
- Lifeguarded swimming areas
- Camping nearby
Umbagog Lake (90 miles from Belleau Lake)
Umbagog Lake is part of a wildlife refuge, offering a remote and natural experience.
- Best For: Wildlife viewing and canoeing
- Highlights:
- Bald eagle sightings
- Quiet, undeveloped shoreline
Silver Lake (30 miles from Belleau Lake)
Silver Lake is known for its calm water and quiet beaches.
- Best For: Relaxation and swimming
- Highlights:
- Small but beautiful beaches
- Excellent water clarity
Lake Chocorua (25 miles from Belleau Lake)
Lake Chocorua is surrounded by mountain views and is a popular spot for photographers.
- Best For: Kayaking and swimming
- Highlights:
- Iconic view of Mount Chocorua
- Small beach area
Highland Lake (35 miles from Belleau Lake)
Highland Lake is a smaller, peaceful lake with a strong fishing community.
- Best For: Fishing and canoeing
- Highlights:
- Bass and trout fishing
- Quiet setting
Sunapee Lake (50 miles from Belleau Lake)
Sunapee Lake is known for its sunsets and sailing-friendly conditions.
- Best For: Boating and fishing
- Highlights:
- Loon Island Lighthouse
- Clean water
Why New Hampshire’s Lakes Are the Perfect Summer Destination
From the massive, activity-filled Lake Winnipesaukee to the peaceful shores of Belleau Lake, New Hampshire’s lakes provide the perfect backdrop for summer adventures.
Ready to explore New Hampshire’s lakes? Book your lakefront rental today and start planning your summer escape.
