Wellington State Park boasts the largest freshwater swimming beach in the New Hampshire State Park system—a quarter-mile of sandy shoreline on pristine, spring-fed Newfound Lake!
Largest Freshwater Beach in NH
| Beach Info | Details |
|---|---|
| 🏖️ Beach Length | Quarter-mile sandy beach |
| 💧 Water Source | Spring-fed Newfound Lake |
| 👶 Swimming Area | Shallow, roped-off (family-friendly) |
| 📅 Season | Memorial Day – Columbus Day |
Day-Use Activities
| Activity | Details |
|---|---|
| 🏊 Swimming | Pristine lake beach |
| 🧺 Picnicking | Tables and grills |
| 🥾 Hiking | Forest trails |
| 📅 Reservations | Day-use up to 30 days ahead |
⚠️ No Camping: Wellington State Park is day-use only. For overnight stays, check nearby private campgrounds like Newfound RV Park or Bristol Shores Campground.
FAQ
Nearby Attractions
Newfound Lake — surrounding — has several beaches and boat launches. Mount Cardigan — 10 miles west — has a bare granite summit hike. Sculptured Rocks Natural Area — 10 miles northwest — has water-carved gorge. Plymouth — 15 miles north — has Plymouth State University and the Polar Caves.
Why is the water so clear?
Newfound Lake is spring-fed with minimal runoff, making it one of the cleanest lakes in the country!
🏖️ NH’s Best Beach Day
Visit NH State Parks.
Location & Getting There
Wellington State Park is located in New Hampshire. The park’s coordinates are 43.6436, -71.7766. Check the park’s official website or your state parks app for detailed driving directions and GPS navigation tips.
Quick Facts
- Location: New Hampshire
- Coordinates: 43.6436, -71.7766
- Activities: Hiking, Camping, Fishing, Wildlife Viewing
- Pets: Allowed on leash in most areas (check local rules)
Things to Do
New Hampshire captures rugged New England with White Mountain peaks, glacial lakes, and Atlantic coastline. Activities include hiking the Appalachian Trail, swimming in mountain lakes, fly fishing, rock climbing granite notches, camping in deep forests, and exploring grand resort-era estates.
Best Time to Visit
Fall (late September to mid-October) is famous for spectacular foliage. Summer is peak for lakes and beaches. Winter brings skiing and ice climbing. Spring brings black flies and muddy trails but excellent waterfall viewing.
Visitor Tips
Day-use admission typically $4-$5 per adult. Advance reservations strongly recommended for Franconia Notch and Monadnock. White Mountain weather is notoriously unpredictable — always carry layers.
Explore More New Hampshire State Parks
Wellington 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.
Make it a road trip: Pair a visit with Sculptured Rocks Natural Area (a short drive away) or Mount Cardigan State Park (a short drive away).
Park Location
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