New Hampshire's Lakes Region is home to over 200 lakes surrounded by picturesque mountains perfect for camping, fishing, swimming, and hiking. The area is also dotted with quaint New England villages, great family entertainment--and the White Mountain National Forest is less than an hour away!
For many, the name of the Lakes Region alone stirs memories of blissful, sunny days spent on the water, the joy of vacations, boat rides and camping. A time when everything moved at a slow summer simmer, and you connected with people and places that still resonate within you today. Summer may be the Lakes Region’s best-known season, but wrap the hillsides in spring green, the blazing colors of fall or a thick blanket of snow, and it is every bit as magical.
Whether you enjoy the lively buzz of Lake Winnipesaukee, or the pristine views of the more secluded lakes, you are sure to enjoy anything from a cruise on New Hampshire's largest lake, to scuba diving, to lying in the sun. The state parks from Bristol to Wolfeboro, as well as throughout the state, are great spots for family fun and swimming as well as camping and picnicking.
Spend a day or two visiting the White Mountains where all kinds of exciting adventures await. Ride to the top of Loon Mountain on the gondolas. Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy on the summit, and then spend the rest of the day hiking or biking on the numerous trails.
You could spend another day exploring the Flume Gorge or wondering through the caves at Lost River. While in the White Mountains, families can also enjoy New Hampshire's own theme parks, like including Whale’s Tale Water Park and Funspot. New Hampshire is home to plenty of other unique attractions, too. You can tour the historic Castle in the Clouds, a mansion built in the early 1900’s by eccentric millionaire Thomas Plant where you can enjoy spectacular views of Lake Winnipesaukee and the nearby mountains. Miles of hiking trails, a café snack bar, and gift shop await you and your family.
At the Squam Lakes Natural Science Center you are invited to explore, discover, and learn. SLNSC is a private, non-profit educational organization located on a 200-acre sanctuary at the south end of Squam Lake with a mission of advancing understanding of ecology by exploring New Hampshire’s natural world. See wildlife close up and learn about their habitats. Explore Squam Lake on naturalist led nature cruises.
