Lakeside beaches in Lakes Regionarea offer forested beauty & blue water

Ellacoya State Park

Route 11 / Scenic Drive Gilford, NH 03246 Phone: 603-293-7821

Located in Gilford on the southwest shore of Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire's largest lake. Offers a 600-foot long sandy beach, with views across the lake to the Sandwich and Ossipee mountains. Facilities include a bathhouse, showers and a changing area for swimmers. A store offers refreshments and souvenirs. Boat launch for small boats near the beach. The park is open weekends only starting in late May, and then full-time from late June 24 through Labor Day. Call or check Web site for exact opening and closing dates. Admission fee.

Swimming Holes

Swimming holes can be found in or near rock quarries, streams, gorges, and waterfalls. Most are pristine, uncrowded, and surrounded by beautiful woods and forests. For details, see the web site www.SwimmingHoles.info

Wellington State Park

Off Route 3A Bristol, NH 03222 Phone: 603-744-2197

Located on Newfound Lake, this state park has the largest freshwater swimming beach in the state park system. Hiking trails and picnic areas along the shore afford views of one of the deepest and clearest lakes in the state. Two group picnic pavilions are located just off the beach in the picnic areas. Snack bar offers snacks, beach and picnic items, and souvenirs. A developed boat launch adjoins the park, providing boaters free access to Newfound Lake. Boat lanes along the beach allow boater access to the park for the regular admission price. The park is open weekends only starting in late May, then daily from late June through early October. Admission fee.

Wentworth State Park

Route 109 Wolfeboro, NH 03894 Phone: 603-569-3699

Wentworth State Park spans 50 acres and is located on the shore of scenic Wentworth Lake. Popular activities in the park include swimming, picnicking, hiking, fishing, and boating. Amenities include picnic tables, a boat launch, flush toilets, and a group use area. Day use fee is $4 for adults and $2 for children age 6 to 11. Hours: The park is open weekends only from Memorial Day weekend through June 14; daily from June 19 to August 24; and Labor Day weekend. Operating hours are Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. There are no lifeguards on duty for the season.

White Lake State Park

Route 16 Tamworth, NH 03886 Phone: 603-323-7350

Some of the best swimming in the White Mountain region can be found in 140-acre White Lake State Park. The park lies along the shore of White Lake, a typical glacial lake. The park is open weekends only starting in late May, then daily from late June through early October. Cal or check Web site for exact opening and closing dates. Admission fee.