Umbagog Lake State Park

By Sarah MitchellOutdoor Editor & Trail ExpertFebruary 25, 2026 · Updated March 7, 2026

Remote Wilderness Paddling, Moose Country & Boat-In Camping

Umbagog Lake State Park offers one of New England’s most authentic wilderness experiences, set on the shores of a wild, undeveloped lake straddling the New Hampshire—Maine border. Rated as the fifth-best kayaking destination in New England by the Boston Globe, Umbagog is a paddler’s paradise where moose outnumber motorboats and bald eagles soar overhead.

The park’s defining feature is its collection of remote, boat-access-only campsites scattered along the lakeshore and up the Magalloway River — offering a backcountry camping experience that’s vanishingly rare in the northeastern United States.

Paddling & Boating

Umbagog Lake covers roughly 7,850 acres of clean, clear water surrounded by undeveloped forest. The lake’s irregular shoreline creates countless coves, islands, and marshy inlets to explore.

• Kayak & Canoe Rentals: Available at the park. A public boat launch sits on the southern shore.
• Magalloway River: Paddle upstream through pristine marshland — one of the best wildlife-viewing paddling routes in northern New England.
• Big Island: Circumnavigate the lake’s largest island for a full-day adventure.
• Gear Transport: Park staff can ferry camping gear and boats to remote sites for a fee.

Wildlife — Moose Country

This is prime moose habitat. The marshy lake edges and surrounding bogs are among the most reliable moose-viewing areas in New Hampshire. Early morning and dusk are the best times — paddle quietly along the marshy shoreline and you’re likely to spot these magnificent animals wading and feeding. Beyond moose, watch for bald eagles, ospreys, loons, great blue herons, river otters, deer, and black bears.

Camping

• Base Campground (27+ sites): Drive-in sites with some electric/water hookups, flush toilets, hot showers, dump station, park store, and boat launch.
• Remote Campsites (33–35 sites): Accessible only by boat! Each site features a fire ring, picnic table, and pit toilet. Scattered along the lakeshore and river — true wilderness camping.
• Cabins (6 total): 2–3 base camp cabins plus 4 remote cabins accessible only by water.
• Season: Memorial Day through Columbus Day. Reserve up to 11 months in advance.

Visitor Tips

• Best Time: June–September for paddling and wildlife. September for fall foliage on the water.
• Loon Protection: Some remote sites close until July 20th to protect nesting loons.
• Firewood: Must be purchased at the park store — outside wood is prohibited.
• Bugs: This is deep wilderness. Bring serious insect repellent, especially in June.
• Pets: Allowed on leash at the base camp. Restrictions apply at some remote sites within the National Wildlife Refuge.

Explore More New Hampshire State Parks

Umbagog 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.

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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