Hiddens Gems of NH: Wadleigh State Park
New Hampshire State Parks are home to some of the most popular outdoor destinations in the state. And while our flagship parks have their charm, we’ve found that the most unique experiences are off the beaten path at some of our lesser-known and lesser-visited parks.
Hello, I’m Dorothy, and today we’re here at Wadleigh State Park to show you one of the most beautiful swimming and picnicking spots in New Hampshire.
Wadleigh State Park covers more than 50 acres on the southeastern shore of Kezar Lake. The smooth, sandy beach and crystal-clear water make this an excellent spot for swimming and watersports. A wide path shaded by tall pines and hemlocks extends the length of the beach.
Abundant picnic tables and grills are well-spaced in the shaded grove, and there are changing facilities and a bathhouse near the beach—along with a swing set for kids. Once you get settled at your picnic table, it’s easy to let your mind drift away to another place in time—a time when summer was slow-paced and relaxing.
From the park, you can walk along the shore around the lake. This three-mile loop walk, mostly along unpaved roads, provides spectacular lakeside views and is a great way to break up your day of swimming and picnicking.
Kayaks and paddleboards can be launched right from the beach, or you can utilize the public boat launch at the dam next to the park. Paddling on Kezar Lake is highly enjoyable, and there’s a small island you can paddle out to that’s loaded with wild blueberries.
I think people enjoy it here because it really caters to bringing families or friends together. It’s a spot that holds a lot of nostalgic memories for me—birthday parties, swimming lessons, and gatherings with family friends. It’s also a place that many of our family members who don’t live in New Hampshire want to visit when they come here.
If this looks like a place you’d like to explore, come visit this hidden gem in the central region of New Hampshire. It’s only a mile or two from Interstate 89, so it’s easy to find.
Stay tuned for more of our Hidden Gem Series this summer!
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