How do I access Lead Mine State Forest?

Lead Mine State Forest is a public bank access in New Hampshire. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Lead Mine State Forest?

Lead Mine State Forest supports kayaking, canoeing, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at Lead Mine State Forest?

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

When is the best time to visit Lead Mine State Forest?

The best time to paddle at Lead Mine State Forest is during summer. June through August

What are the water conditions at Lead Mine State Forest?

Water conditions at Lead Mine State Forest include mild current.

Is Lead Mine State Forest good for beginners?

Yes, Lead Mine State Forest is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.

Photo by Abel Doñé on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

RiverMild Current

Amenities

Boat RampParkingBoatingFishing

Best Time to Visit

Summer

Lead Mine State Forest

Gorham, NH · Bank Access · Public

Lead Mine State Forest is a public bank access on Androscoggin River near Gorham, New Hampshire. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, kayak fishing. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, boating. Best visited in summer.

At a Glance

Water Body

River

Launch Type

Bank Access

Difficulty

Beginner

Fee

Free

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing, Kayak Fishing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Good

Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.

About This Location

Public launch on Androscoggin River in New Hampshire. Beginner-friendly river paddling near Gorham.

Situated along Androscoggin River in New Hampshire, Lead Mine State Forest provides convenient river access for kayakers, canoeists, and other paddlers.

Kayaking is the most popular activity here, with the water conditions supporting a range of skill levels. Canoeists can enjoy the calmer sections for a relaxed paddle. The Northeast offers seasonal paddling with vibrant fall foliage and warm summer days on the water.

Conditions here tend to be mild current, making it suitable for paddlers of all skill levels. Plan your visit for June through August. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and boating and fishing.

At about 5 min from Gorham, Lead Mine State Forest is a practical choice for paddlers based in the Gorham area.

Paddling Tips

•Scout downstream from the launch before committing to your paddle.
•Always face upstream when entering or exiting your boat at the ramp.
•River levels change with rainfall — check the USGS gauge before you go.
•Dress for the water temperature, not the air temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Lead Mine State Forest?: Lead Mine State Forest is a public bank access in New Hampshire. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Lead Mine State Forest?: Lead Mine State Forest supports kayaking, canoeing, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Lead Mine State Forest?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, boating, fishing. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Lead Mine State Forest?: The best time to paddle at Lead Mine State Forest is during summer. June through August
What are the water conditions at Lead Mine State Forest?: Water conditions at Lead Mine State Forest include mild current.
Is Lead Mine State Forest good for beginners?: Yes, Lead Mine State Forest is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 44.3990, -71.1275