How do I access Squam Lakes?

Squam Lakes is a public boat ramp in New Hampshire. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Squam Lakes?

Squam Lakes 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 Squam Lakes?

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

When is the best time to visit Squam Lakes?

The best time to paddle at Squam Lakes is during summer. June through August

What are the water conditions at Squam Lakes?

Water conditions at Squam Lakes include calm, sheltered.

Is Squam Lakes good for beginners?

Yes, Squam Lakes 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 large body of water surrounded by trees

Photo by Dylan Crawford on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParkingDockRestroomsBoatingFishing

Best Time to Visit

Summer

Squam Lakes

Holderness, NH · Boat Ramp · Public

Squam Lakes is a public boat ramp on Squam Lake near Holderness, New Hampshire. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, dock. Best visited in summer.

At a Glance

Water Body

Lake

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

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 Squam Lake near Holderness, New Hampshire. Beginner level with calm and sheltered water.

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

Kayakers will find the waters here well-suited to touring and exploration. The waters here are approachable for canoes, making it a good option for family outings.

You can expect calm and sheltered water when paddling here. The recommended season runs June through August. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and dock and restrooms and boating and fishing.

Located about 5 min from Holderness, Squam Lakes is a convenient option for Holderness-area paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

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

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

Paddling Tips

•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.
•Hug the shoreline for the most interesting scenery and easier paddling.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Squam Lakes?: Squam Lakes is a public boat ramp in New Hampshire. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Squam Lakes?: Squam Lakes 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 Squam Lakes?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, dock, restrooms, boating, fishing. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Squam Lakes?: The best time to paddle at Squam Lakes is during summer. June through August
What are the water conditions at Squam Lakes?: Water conditions at Squam Lakes include calm, sheltered.
Is Squam Lakes good for beginners?: Yes, Squam Lakes 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: 43.7325, -71.5878