How do I access Highland Lake?

Highland Lake is a public bank access in New Hampshire. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Highland Lake?

Highland Lake supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at Highland Lake?

On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms, boating, fishing. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.

When is the best time to visit Highland Lake?

The best time to paddle at Highland Lake is during summer. June through August

What are the water conditions at Highland Lake?

Water conditions at Highland Lake include calm, sheltered.

Is Highland Lake good for beginners?

Yes, Highland Lake is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

a body of water with trees and hills in the background

Photo by Jen Shish on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParkingRestroomsBoatingFishing

Best Time to Visit

Summer

Highland Lake

Stoddard, NH · Bank Access · Public

Highland Lake is a public bank access on Highland Lake near Stoddard, New Hampshire. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms. Best visited in summer.

At a Glance

Water Body

Lake

Launch Type

Bank Access

Difficulty

Beginner

Fee

Free

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing, SUP, Kayak Fishing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Good

Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

About This Location

Launch into Highland Lake near Stoddard, New Hampshire. Beginner level with calm and sheltered water.

Highland Lake is a public access point on Highland Lake in New Hampshire, giving paddlers a convenient entry to the lake.

This is a solid spot for kayaking, with enough room to settle into a comfortable paddling rhythm. Canoeing works well here, especially for those looking for a peaceful day on the water.

Water conditions are generally calm and sheltered. June through August is the recommended window for paddling here. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and restrooms and boating and fishing.

Getting here from Stoddard takes about 5 min, putting Highland Lake within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Highland Lake ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

Paddling Tips

•Morning hours offer the calmest water and best wildlife viewing on the lake.
•Keep an eye on the weather — afternoon winds can pick up quickly on open water.
•Hug the shoreline for the most interesting scenery and easier paddling.
•Bring polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and spot submerged obstacles.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Highland Lake?: Highland Lake is a public bank access in New Hampshire. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Highland Lake?: Highland Lake supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Highland Lake?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms, boating, fishing. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Highland Lake?: The best time to paddle at Highland Lake is during summer. June through August
What are the water conditions at Highland Lake?: Water conditions at Highland Lake include calm, sheltered.
Is Highland Lake good for beginners?: Yes, Highland Lake is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 43.0786, -72.0975