Wadleigh State Park

explore_and_experience, swimmingNew Hampshire, USA

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Family-friendly and clean spot featuring a lake for water sports, plus barbecue facilities.

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4.6

During the past six years my wife and I have made Wadleigh our go-to swimming spot in central NH. I'm torn between extolling its virtues, and keeping it a secret. Most folks have never heard of it, and that's fine by me. It's a classic NH state park: simple, understated, no special amenities except toilets, changing rooms, a small playground, some picnic tables and a few rentable kayaks. It also has towering pines that grow along the edge of the beach, meaning that there's always plenty of shade for those hot summer days. Lake Kezar isn't exceptionally large nor deep, but the water is refreshingly clean year round. Loons calling from the other side, Bald Eagles soaring overhead: you get the picture. It's also quiet; no hip hop music playing nor water skiers tearing up the surface. There are plenty of people who expect more excitement from the beach; this place isn't for them. If you want to read, relax, watch nature instead of a video, and leave feeling refreshed, this is for you. Hint: the beach is quite pebbly, and the lake is full of mussels (a sign of exceptional water quality). You're highly advised to wear waterproof slippers for maximum comfort. You can find them at Ocean State Job Lot, cheap.

Google Reviews

marc bouchard

During the past six years my wife and I have made Wadleigh our go-to swimming spot in central NH. I'm torn between extolling its virtues, and keeping it a secret. Most folks have never heard of it, and that's fine by me. It's a classic NH state park: simple, understated, no special amenities except toilets, changing rooms, a small playground, some picnic tables and a few rentable kayaks. It also has towering pines that grow along the edge of the beach, meaning that there's always plenty of shade for those hot summer days. Lake Kezar isn't exceptionally large nor deep, but the water is refreshingly clean year round. Loons calling from the other side, Bald Eagles soaring overhead: you get the picture. It's also quiet; no hip hop music playing nor water skiers tearing up the surface. There are plenty of people who expect more excitement from the beach; this place isn't for them. If you want to read, relax, watch nature instead of a video, and leave feeling refreshed, this is for you. Hint: the beach is quite pebbly, and the lake is full of mussels (a sign of exceptional water quality). You're highly advised to wear waterproof slippers for maximum comfort. You can find them at Ocean State Job Lot, cheap.

Jul 24, 2025 · Google Review

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Services

Amenities

Good for Children

Accessibility

Accessible Parking

Accessible Entrance

Parking Options

Free Parking Lot

Location & Map

Find this place on Google Maps and get turn-by-turn directions before you go.

Wadleigh State Park

New HampshireUSA