Forest Lake State Park

By Sarah MitchellOutdoor Editor & Trail ExpertFebruary 5, 2026 · Updated May 12, 2026

Forest Lake State Park is a public state park in New Hampshire near Dalton in Coös County. Spanning 397 acres and established in 1935, this park offers a peaceful retreat into nature for visitors of all ages.

Quick Facts

Location & Getting There

Forest Lake State Park is located near Dalton, New Hampshire. The park’s coordinates are 43.6333, -71.2333.

Things to Do

New Hampshire state parks capture the rugged essence of New England, featuring the towering peaks of the White Mountains, pristine glacial lakes, and a brief but beautiful stretch of Atlantic coastline. Visitors can hike some of the most challenging and rewarding trails in the Northeast, including sections of the Appalachian Trail, swim in crystal-clear mountain lakes or ocean surf, camp in deep forest settings, fly fish for trout in fast-moving streams, and rock climb dramatic granite notches. The parks also encompass historic sites, including grand resort-era estates and early American settlements.

Best Time to Visit

Fall (late September to mid-October) is the most famous time to visit, drawing “leaf peepers” from around the world to witness the spectacular autumn colors in the White Mountains. Summer (July–August) is peak season for lakes and coastal beaches, offering warm days and cool nights. Winter turns the mountain parks into destinations for downhill and cross-country skiing, ice climbing, and snowmobiling. Spring (May–June) brings black flies (“bug season”) and muddy trails at higher elevations, though it’s excellent for waterfall viewing.

Visitor Tips

New Hampshire state parks charge day-use admission fees, typically $4-$5 per adult and $2 for children, though coastal beaches charge parking fees instead. Advanced day-use reservations are strongly recommended (and sometimes required) for popular parks like Franconia Notch (Flume Gorge) and Monadnock, especially on summer and fall weekends, as parking lots fill early. Weather in the White Mountains is notoriously unpredictable and can change rapidly — always carry layers and check the Mount Washington Observatory forecast before hiking at elevation.

Explore More New Hampshire State Parks

Forest Lake State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in New Hampshire. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in New Hampshire guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.

Wildlife & Nature

Forest Lake State Park — 397 acres on Forest Lake in Dalton, near Whitefield — offers a sandy swimming beach on a remote lake in the White Mountains region. The 225-acre lake is surrounded by undeveloped forest. Common loons nest on the lake. Bald eagles are occasionally spotted. Moose wade in the shallow coves at dawn. Painted turtles and snapping turtles inhabit the lake.

Nearby Attractions

Whitefield — 3 miles east — has a small-town New England character. Lancaster — 10 miles north — is the Coös County seat. White Mountain National Forest — 15 miles east — offers extensive hiking. Santa’s Village — 15 miles north in Jefferson — is a classic family amusement park.

Nearby state parks: If you have extra time, Governor Wentworth Historic Site is a short drive away, and Wentworth State Park is a short drive away.

About the Author

Sarah Mitchell

Outdoor Editor & Trail Expert

Sarah Mitchell is an outdoor writer and trail researcher with over 8 years of experience exploring state parks across America. As the lead editor at AmericasStateParks.org, she has personally visited more than 200 parks in 42 states, logging thousands of trail miles and hundreds of campground nights. Sarah specializes in detailed park guides, accessibility information, and family-friendly outdoor planning. Her work focuses on helping first-time visitors feel confident and well-prepared for their state park adventures.

200+ state parks visited across 42 states | 8+ years of outdoor writing

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