New Hampshire’s Lakes Region is a paradise for boating enthusiasts and we are now entering our busy season. With over 273 lakes, ponds and rivers, it is one of the best places in the country to enjoy water sports. Several public boat launches are available throughout the region to make it easier for boaters to access these waterbodies. Here are some of the boat launches to be aware of.
Lake Winnipesaukee, 44,586 acres.
Lake Winnipesaukee is the largest lake in New Hampshire and one of the most popular boating destinations in the state. There are several public boat launches available on the lake, including:
The Meredith Public Boat Launch in Meredith (non-residents pay a $20 fee. Residents launch free with a decal). 3-hour docking limit between hours of operation with no overnight docking. 4.7 star review on Google.
Shep Brown’s, Meredith (fee charge). No trailer parking is allowed on the paved municipal parking lot adjacent to Shep Brown’s, but trailer parking is allowed at the municipal lot located on Lovejoy Sands Road. 5.0 star review on Google.
Fay’s Boat Yard, Gilford (fee charged and varies based on size/trailer). Includes parking for trailers and vehicles. 4.6 star review on Google.
Center Harbor Public Docks, Center Harbor (there is a $15 launch fee for non-residents). 4.6 star review on Google.
The Wolfeboro Public Boat Launch in Wolfeboro. This boat launch was recently redone over the winter, and the docks were rebuilt. 4.9 star review on Google.
West Alton Marina, Alton ($50 credit fee or $45 cash fee). This ramp is open to the public 24/7 and allows one vehicle with a trailer per fee. 4.8 star review on Google.
Alton Public Docks and Ramp, Alton (no fee). This facility was recently upgraded and expanded with paved parking and several docks. 5.0 star review on Google.
Downing Landing, Alton (no fee). This facility has partial/limited site access with paved parking and a paved ramp. 4.6 star review on Google.
Robert Cove Basin, Alton ($30 fee for boats and jet skis, $15 for canoes and kayaks, $300 for season launch pass plus parking fees). 4.7 star review on Google.
Squam Lake, 6,791 acres.
Squam Lake is the second-largest lake in the Lakes Region and offers some of the most beautiful scenery in the area. There is one free public boat launch available on the lake.
Squam Lake Public Boat Launch in Holderness (no fee). No ski crafts (E.I., jet ski/personal watercraft) allowed. 4.6 star review on Google.
Lake Winnisquam, 4,214 acres.
Lake Winnisquam is the fourth-largest lake in the Lakes Region and is a popular destination for boaters. There is one public boat launch available on the lake:
Winnisquam Access Facility, Laconia (no fee). Owned by the state, this facility has a concrete log ramp, paved parking, and a dock. 4.8 star review on Google.
Newfound Lake, 4,106 acres.
Newfound Lake is a beautiful lake located in Bristol, New Hampshire.
Wellington State Beach, Bristol. NH Fish and Games operates a boat launch adjoining the park, open 24/7. This facility has a concrete log ramp, paved parking, trailer access, and restrooms. There is a 6 MPH restriction in some parts. 4.7 star review on Google.
Lake Opechee, 427 acres.
Lake Opechee is a small but beautiful lake in Laconia, New Hampshire.
Messer Street Boat Ramp, Laconia (no fee). The city of Laconia owns this boat ramp, including a concrete log ramp, restrooms, and a picnic area. 4.5-star review on Google.
Lake Waukewan, 912 acres.
Lake Waukewan is a small but beautiful lake in Meredith, New Hampshire. There is one public boat launch available on the lake.
Waukewan Street, Meredith. This boat launch provides easy access to the lake with a concrete ramp and offers amenities such as a picnic area and ample paved parking. No personal watercraft. 4.5-star review on Google.
Lake Kanasatka, 371 acres.
Lake Kanasatka is a smaller beautiful lake in Moultonborough, New Hampshire. There is one public boat launch available which the State DES owns. It has a gravel ramp and limited site access. 4.3 star review on Google.
Merrymeeting Lake, 1,111 acres.
Merrymeeting Lake is a smaller tranquil lake in New Durham, New Hampshire. One public boat launch is available, owned by the State- NH Fish and Game. It has a paved ramp and limited site access. No personal watercraft in Elly Cove, lake trout & salmon waters. 5.0 star review on Google.
This article was written by Frank Roche. Frank is president of Roche Realty Group with offices in Meredith and Laconia, NH, and can be reached at (603) 279-7046. Please feel free to visit www.rocherealty.com to learn more about the Lakes Region and its real estate market.
If you would like more information on these boat launches, please visit: https://nhfg.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=2243091f322449819c244c0c3b2f3f43
