Lake Francis State Park, Pittsburg NH
Contact Details
- Address: 439 River Road, Pittsburg, NH 03592
- Phone: +1 603–538–6965
- Website: https://www.nhstateparks.org/find-parks-trails/lake-francis-state-park
Overview
Lake Francis State Park is my favorite place to camp and paddleboard. Tucked away in a remote corner of New Hampshire, it offers the kind of solitude that’s hard to come by. The campground itself is small, with only a handful of sites equipped with electrical and water hookups. A few coveted spots sit right on the water’s edge, offering the perfect blend of convenience and natural beauty. Snagging one of these prime sites is no easy feat — you have to be ready the moment reservations open, and even then, it’s a race. If you don’t get your first pick, having a backup plan is essential.
But what truly sets Lake Francis apart isn’t just its peaceful campsites; it’s the feeling of pure isolation once you’re out on the water. The moment you push off from shore and paddle across the glassy surface, it feels as if the entire lake belongs to you. Over the years, I’ve spent countless hours out there, often without seeing another soul. While there’s a public access point nearby and a few private homes scattered along the shoreline, the lake remains remarkably quiet. Aside from the occasional fly fisherman dotting the shore, it’s just you, the water, and the mountains in the distance.
I always try to visit after Labor Day, when the summer crowds have vanished, kids are back in school, and only the most dedicated campers remain. By then, the water has been warmed by the sun all season, making it perfect for swimming. The crisp autumn air creates ideal paddling conditions, and as the leaves begin to turn, the scenery becomes even more breathtaking.
Last September, the lake was so empty that I felt completely at ease, embracing the kind of freedom that only true solitude allows. With no one around, I let go of every last barrier between myself and nature — literally. Paddling across the water, I alternated between basking in the sun’s warmth on my board and diving into the lake’s cool embrace. Floating there, surrounded by nothing but the vast sky and the rustling trees, I felt a rare kind of connection — one that I won’t soon forget.
Of course, not everything about Lake Francis is about rugged wilderness. One of the park’s unexpected highlights? The showers. They’re hands down the best I’ve encountered at any campground. Yes, they’re coin-operated, but they blast with an intensity that puts most home showers to shame. Too many campgrounds have trickling water pressure, thanks to overprotective regulations, but not here. For just $0.75, you get a powerful, steaming-hot shower that feels like pure luxury after a long day outdoors.
If you’re bringing an RV, there are a few things to keep in mind. The electrical hookups are 120-volt, 20-amp, so if your setup requires 30 or 50 amps, you’ll need an adapter. Luckily, the camp store carries them in case you forget. Another lesson I learned the hard way: the water pressure at the spigots — like the showers — is intense — so much so that I once ruined a hose by attaching the pressure-reducing valve at the camper’s water connector instead of at the source. Learn from my mistake — always install the regulator directly at the spigot.
One thing to be aware of: supplies are limited. The few stores in the area charge a premium, and I learned this firsthand when a pint of Ben & Jerry’s set me back a whopping eight bucks. If you’re planning a trip, bring everything you need — food, beer, and other essentials — so you’re not at the mercy of the limited (and pricey) local options.
Lake Francis is more than just a place to camp; it’s a retreat, a quiet sanctuary where time slows down and the world feels vast and open. Every visit leaves me with a deeper appreciation for its solitude and beauty. If you’re lucky enough to experience it for yourself, you just might fall in love with it, too.
Rating
10 out of 10
History
Lake Francis State Park in Pittsburg, New Hampshire, sits in the heart of the state’s remote North Country, a region once shaped by the natural flow of the Connecticut River and its tributaries. For centuries, the area remained largely untouched, its dense forests and winding waterways serving as a hub for the logging industry. However, the landscape underwent a dramatic transformation in 1940 with the completion of Murphy Dam, a flood control project that gave rise to Lake Francis. Named after former Governor Francis P. Murphy, the dam was part of a broader effort to regulate water levels in the Connecticut River watershed. In the process, low-lying areas were flooded, permanently altering the region’s geography.
While the dam displaced some settlements, it also expanded opportunities for fishing, boating, and outdoor recreation. As the logging industry declined in the mid-20th century, the area’s unspoiled wilderness became its greatest asset. Recognizing this potential, the state took steps to preserve and enhance public access. In 1976, 17 acres of land were transferred from the New Hampshire Water Resources Board to the Department of Resources and Economic Development, officially establishing Lake Francis State Park. Since then, the park has grown to 38 acres, providing visitors with camping, fishing, and boating access in one of New Hampshire’s most secluded landscapes]
Stand Up Paddleboarding at Lake Francis State Park
What’s Good:
Calm and Clear Waters:
- The lake is generally calm, especially in the mornings and evenings, making it an excellent choice for beginners or those seeking a relaxing paddle.
- The water is clean and surrounded by natural beauty.
Scenic Views:
- Nestled in the Connecticut Lakes region, the lake is surrounded by forested hills and offers stunning, tranquil views.
- Fall foliage adds a spectacular burst of color in autumn.
Abundant Wildlife:
- The area is home to moose, loons, bald eagles, and other wildlife.
Low Crowds:
- The park’s remote location means fewer visitors, ensuring a quiet and peaceful paddling and camping experience.
Camping and Amenities:
- Lake Francis State Park offers campsites close to the water, restrooms, and picnic areas, making it convenient for day trips or overnight stays.
What’s Bad:
Remote Location:
- While the remoteness adds to the charm, it also means a long drive and limited nearby services such as restaurants or gear shops.
Weather Variability:
- The area is subject to quick weather changes, including sudden winds and rain, which can make paddling challenging.
Cold Water Temperatures:
- Even in summer, the water can be chilly, requiring caution for those who may fall in or want to swim.
No Paddleboard Rentals:
- There are no paddleboard rentals on-site, so you’ll need to bring your own gear or rent from an outfitter before arriving. There are canoe and kayak rentals.
Insects:
- Mosquitoes and black flies can be an issue, especially in late spring and early summer.
Things to Consider:
Skill Level:
- Beginners should stay closer to shore, while more experienced paddlers can venture farther or explore inlets.
Safety Gear:
- Wear a personal flotation device (PFD) and consider a leash for your paddleboard.
- Carry a whistle or signaling device, as required by New Hampshire law.
Timing:
- Early morning and late afternoon offer the calmest waters and the best opportunities for wildlife viewing.
- Avoid paddling during windy conditions, which can create small waves and make it harder to navigate.
Camping and Reservations:
- If staying overnight, you will need to book a campsite 11 months in advance, especially during the summer months and fall foliage season.
Leave No Trace Principles:
- Preserve the pristine environment by packing out all trash and minimizing your impact on the area.
Weather Preparedness:
- Check the weather forecast before heading out, and be prepared for sudden changes.
- Dress in layers and bring a dry bag for essentials.
Pack Essentials:
- Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, bug spray, and extra layers, as services are limited near the park.
Camping
Lake Francis State Park offers a range of camping options for both tents and RVs. The park features tent-only sites and several RV-friendly spots with a maximum length of 40 feet. Among the RV sites, two are pull-through; only a handful of sites have electric and water hookups. These sites are only 20-amp, and adapters are available for purchase at the camp store. The campground is big-rig-friendly. Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, fire pit, and grill.
Facilities include flush toilets, hot showers, drinking water stations, and a dump station for RVs. Laundry facilities are available on-site, along with trash disposal and recycling services. Firewood can be purchased within the park.
Many campsites are located along the shores of Lake Francis. A boat launch is available for visitor use. On land, the park features short hiking trails, a playground, and wildlife-watching opportunities.
The park is pet-friendly, allowing leashed pets, though additional rules apply.
Campground Details:
Season: Memorial Day weekend through Veterans Day (camping)
Total number of campsites: 45
Number of sites with electricity and water: 9
Number of sites with tent platforms (a two-minute walk from the parking area, situated near the river ): 5
ATV campsites: 9
Reservation booking window: 11 months
How difficult is it to get a camping reservation (1=easy, 10=impossible): 9
Fees:
Day use fees: Adults $4, Children 6–11 $2, Children 5 and under $0, NH Residents 65 and over $0
Campsite fees:
· No hookups: $35 per night
· Waterview / hookups: $45 per night
Things to Check Out Nearby Lake Francis State Park
Moose Alley:
- This is the name for the section of Route 3 north of First Connecticut Lake. You will know when you arrive because you will see signs telling you to watch out for moose! The best time to see moose along this stretch is at dawn and dusk.
Murphy Dam:
- There is no tour, but it is a fun location to walk around, explore the dam facilities, and have a picnic.
Table Rock, Dixville Notch State Park:
- In a word: TERRIFYING. Dixville Notch is about 40 minutes from Lake Francis, Dixville Notch. The hike is challenging to the only 6-foot wide rocky outcrop with a sheer 700-foot drop on each side.
Mount Magalloway:
- Located near Lake Francis, Mount Magalloway offers hiking trails and great views of the surrounding mountains and lakes. The summit offers panoramic views of the North Country. It is a popular spot for hikers.
Beaver Brook Falls Wayside:
- Take a 35-minute drive from Lake Francis to an 80-foot waterfall that can be viewed from the roadside. Bring food and enjoy a picnic at a table overlooking the waterfall.
Great North Woods Scenic Byway:
- This scenic byway is a beautiful drive that takes you through forests, mountains, and lakes in northern New Hampshire. It’s perfect for a leisurely drive to enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
You just read a chapter from the book:
“Paddle, Camp, Repeat: 10 Campgrounds for Paddleboarding in the Northeast”
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