a boat in the water
Photo by Richard R on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParkingRestroomsBoatingFishingSwimming AreaCampingPicnic Area

Best Time to Visit

Pillsbury State Park

Lempster, NH · Boat Ramp · Public

Pillsbury State Park is a public boat ramp on Butterfield Pond near Lempster, 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

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Fee

Yes

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

Pillsbury State Park offers lake paddling on Butterfield Pond in New Hampshire. Located near Lempster.

Lake paddlers in New Hampshire will appreciate Pillsbury State Park, which offers direct access to Butterfield Pond and its surrounding waters.

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 calm and sheltered, making it suitable for paddlers of all skill levels. Plan your visit for June through August. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and restrooms and boating and fishing and swimming area and camping and picnic area.

At about 5 min from Lempster, Pillsbury State Park is a practical choice for paddlers based in the Lempster area.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Pillsbury State Park ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Paddling Tips

  • Bring polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and spot submerged obstacles.
  • If fishing, try the coves and points where fish tend to congregate.
  • 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.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Pillsbury State Park?
Pillsbury State Park is a public boat ramp in New Hampshire. The entrance fee is Yes.
What activities are available at Pillsbury State Park?
Pillsbury State Park 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 Pillsbury State Park?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms, boating, fishing, swimming area, camping, picnic area. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Pillsbury State Park?
The best time to paddle at Pillsbury State Park is during summer. June through August
What are the water conditions at Pillsbury State Park?
Water conditions at Pillsbury State Park include calm, sheltered.
Is Pillsbury State Park good for beginners?
Yes, Pillsbury State Park 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: 43.2263, -72.1190

Quick Facts

Region
Northeast
Getting There
~5 min from Lempster
Get Directions

43.2263, -72.1190

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More Paddling on Butterfield Pond

1 other launch on this water body