White Lake State Park
White Lake State Park is a New Hampshire gem nestled in the scenic Tamworth area—a 125-acre glacial lake with crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming, surrounded by a 72-acre Pitch Pine forest designated a National Natural Landmark in 1980. With nearly 200 campsites, a sandy swimming beach, and kettle bog trails, this park offers an authentic New England outdoor experience in the White Mountains foothills.
📢 February 2026 Status
- Camping: CLOSED through May 20, 2026 (seasonal)
- Staffed Season: May – October
- Lifeguards: May not be on duty (staffing shortages)
- Reservations: Book up to 11 months in advance!
White Lake – Glacial Swimming Gem
| Lake Details | Information |
|---|---|
| 🏖️ Size | 125 acres |
| 🧊 Formation | Glacial kettle lake |
| 💧 Water | Crystal-clear |
| 🏊 Beach | Sandy swimming beach |
| Beach Amenities | Details |
|---|---|
| 🚿 Bathhouse | Available near beach |
| 🧺 Picnic Areas | Near beach access |
| ⚠️ Lifeguards | May not be on duty (swim at own risk) |
| 📅 Season | Memorial Day – Labor Day |
Pitch Pine Forest – National Natural Landmark
| Landmark Info | Details |
|---|---|
| 🌲 Size | 72 acres |
| 🏆 Designation | National Natural Landmark (1980) |
| 🌳 Trees | Mature pitch pine + bear oak |
| 📏 Pine Size | Up to 2+ feet diameter! |
| 🥾 Trail | Walking trail through forest + kettle bogs |
Camping – ~200 Sites
| Campground Info | Details |
|---|---|
| ⛺ Sites | 168–204 campsites |
| 🚐 RV Length | Up to 38 feet |
| ⚡ Hookups | None available |
| 📅 Season | Late May – October |
| Site Amenities | Included |
|---|---|
| 🪵 Fire Ring | Yes |
| 🧺 Picnic Table | Yes |
| 🚿 Showers | Yes (flush toilets too) |
| 🚐 Dump Station | Yes |
Reservations
| Booking Info | Details |
|---|---|
| 📅 Advance Booking | Up to 11 months ahead |
| ⚠️ Peak Season | Book EARLY (fills fast!) |
| ❌ Cancellation Policy | Updated Feb 1, 2024 |
| 🐕 Pets | Not permitted |
Park Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| 📍 Location | Tamworth, NH (White Mountains foothills) |
| 📅 Staffed | May – October |
| 🏊 Water Quality | Monitored by NH DES |
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Pitch Pine forest special?
The 72-acre Pitch Pine forest at White Lake State Park was designated a National Natural Landmark in 1980. It preserves a mature, undisturbed stand of pitch pine and bear oak trees—an increasingly rare ecosystem. Some pitch pines here grow exceptionally large, exceeding two feet in diameter. A walking trail passes through the forest and nearby kettle bogs.
Are there lifeguards at the beach?
Not always. Due to staffing shortages, lifeguards may not be on duty at White Lake’s swimming beach. All swimming is at your own risk. The NH Department of Environmental Services monitors water quality during the swimming season (Memorial Day through Labor Day) and issues advisories if needed.
When does the campground open for 2026?
White Lake State Park’s campground opens around late May 2026 (approximately May 20-21). The camping season runs through October. The park is staffed from May through October, with limited facilities outside these months. Reservations can be made up to 11 months in advance—book early for summer weekends!
Are RV hookups available at White Lake?
No. White Lake State Park does not offer electric, water, or sewer hookups at campsites. However, RVs up to 38 feet can be accommodated. The campground does provide a dump station, drinking water, flush toilets, and showers. Each site includes a picnic table and fire ring.
Are pets allowed at White Lake State Park?
No. Pets are generally not permitted at White Lake State Park. This policy helps protect the pristine glacial lake environment and ensures a peaceful experience for all visitors. Service animals may be exceptions—contact the park directly for accommodations.
🏖️ New Hampshire’s Glacial Lake Retreat
Swim in crystal-clear glacial waters, explore a rare pitch pine National Natural Landmark, and camp among nearly 200 wooded sites. Visit the official White Lake State Park website for reservations and seasonal schedules.
