Squam Lake Area

Squam Lake is the very same lake as featured in the film, "On Golden Pond." To commemorate this, there are guided boat tours available across this pristine lake. Holderness and Ashland are the two main towns on Squam Lake, complete with many lovely cottages, restaurants, inns, and a covered bridge over the Squam River. The Science Center of New Hampshire is located in Holderness, and features a huge wildlife trail where you can see all varieties of animals living in their natural habitats while undergoing physical rehabilitation. Squam Lake lies to the northwest of Winnipesaukee and can be reached by following Route 3/25 North from Weirs Beach.

Other Lakes

Lake Winnisquam is the setting for the towns of Belmont, Meredith, Sanbornton, and Tilton, and its shoreline also laps at the city of Laconia. This is an area full of cottages, resorts, and bed & breakfast inns. A large factory outlet shopping center is located in Tilton. This area lies just to the west of Laconia and Weirs Beach.

The Ossipee and White Lakes are located in the northeast corner of the Lakes Region, close to the Maine state line. Tamworth is the main city worth noting in this area, as it is home to the very popular White Lake State Park, which features campgrounds, boat rentals, and areas for swimming and fishing along the shores of the beautiful White Lake. The town is also a great place for mountain biking and is home to the Barnstormers, New Hampshire's oldest summer theater.

Boating

The Lakes Region is a boater's paradise, filled with rivers, stream, and a grand total of 273 fresh water lakes and ponds, all of which are open to the public and patrolled by the state to ensure safety on the water. Boaters visiting Gilford and the surrounding area even have the opportunity to stay there overnight at the state's only mooring field.

Boaters should remember that all water craft, whether motorized or wind-powered, must be registered. Reciprocity exists with most states. Life jackets are required for everyone aboard a boat. Being aware of the rules and safety precautions that must be observed with make for a safer and more enjoyable experience for everyone.