New England is home to numerous picturesque lakes and rivers. These are popular summer getaway spots for those who love swimming, fishing, boating, and experiencing the summer heat by the water. Let’s explore some of the top lakes and rivers in the area.
Moosehead Lake, ME
Moosehead Lake, one of the most popular getaway spots in New York, is the largest mountain lake in the eastern United States and the biggest lake in Maine. Thick forests and mountains frame this one-of-a-kind destination, which is a hub for boating, fishing, and water sports. And with a significant moose population, visitors may spot moose on the lakeshore.
Sebago Lake, ME
Sebago Lake is the second-largest lake in Maine, where people enjoy boating, swimming, fishing, and more in its waters. Anglers particularly love Sebago Lake thanks to its large population of trout, Atlantic salmon, and bass. The lake’s sandy beaches are pleasant places to relax, and numerous picturesque campgrounds surround the water.
Lake Winnipesaukee, NH
Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire’s largest lake, is a beautiful deep-blue body of water at the foothills of the White Mountains. In the summer, many boaters, water sports enthusiasts, and swimmers populate its waters. Lake Winnipesaukee has idyllic beaches along its shore, plenty of fish species for anglers, including bass and trout, and gorgeous trails by the water.
Squam Lake, NH
Squam Lake, located northwest of Lake Winnipesaukee, is another gorgeous lake near the White Mountains. Quaint restaurants and lodges line the lakeshore for visitors to frequent. Many boaters enjoy exploring the dozens of isolated islands throughout Squam Lake. Visitors without a boat can take a 90-minute wilderness tour cruise offered by the Squam Lakes Natural Science Center.
Lake Champlain, VT
Lake Champlain, the sixth-largest lake in the U.S., straddles the border with Upstate New York. According to urban legend, a lake monster lives in the water, but that doesn’t stop packs of summer visitors from arriving every year. Lake Champlain boasts numerous pleasant public beaches and is one of the top destinations in New England for fishing.
Lake Saint Catherine, VT
Lake Saint Catherine is a stunning lake in Vermont surrounded by thick forests and natural beauty. Lake Saint Catherine State Park is located along part of the lake’s northeastern shore. The park offers kayak and canoe rentals, picturesque hiking trails and picnic areas by the water, a sandy beach, and a boat launch.
Lake Lillinonah, CT
Lake Lillinonah is the second-largest lake in Connecticut, stretching across Fairfield, Litchfield, and New Haven counties. Steeped in incredible scenery, this lake is a popular boating and fishing site, where anglers are attracted to its plentiful population of overgrown bass. Lake Lillinonah also stands out as a bird-watching destination; bald eagles are known to frequent the area, so bring your binoculars.
