Umbagog Lake State Park, Errol NH
Contact Details
- Address: 25 State Park Road, Errol, NH 03579
- Phone: +1 603–482–7795
- Website: https://www.nhstateparks.org/find-parks-trails/umbagog-lake-state-park
Overview
Lake Umbagog is a hidden gem for campers and paddleboarders seeking both adventure and tranquility. Nestled in the wilderness, this state park offers a limited number of campsites, and even fewer provide both a breathtaking lake view and the luxury of an electrical hookup. In fact, I believe there are only eight such coveted spots, perched along the shoreline, offering an uninterrupted panorama of the water.
The view alone is worth the trip. Sitting on the beach, watching the sun set over the still waters, is nothing short of spectacular. But for me, the real magic of Lake Umbagog lies in its waters — paddling across its expanse, exploring secluded shorelines, and, if you’re up for a challenge, camping on one of its remote, primitive sites.
The lake itself is warm and shallow, though not particularly clear. I learned the hard way that night paddling here is a lost cause. Once, I attempted to glide across the water under the stars, relying on my paddleboard’s underwater LED lights to illuminate the depths. But the murky water swallowed the light whole, leaving me floating in an eerie, impenetrable darkness. That was a one-time experiment — lesson learned.
The draw of the lake’s remote campsites proved irresistible for people like me who are willing to rough it. No electricity, no running water — just an outhouse, a fire ring, a picnic table, and a tent platform. It’s as raw and untouched as camping gets. My first year at Umbagog, I remember watching a couple paddle in on paddleboards, dry bags strapped to the bow. I knew then that I had to try it.
In 2024, I came up with a harebrained scheme: to paddle out and spend a few nights on one of the remote campsites with my two dogs, Groot and Rocket. The problem? There was already little room on the paddleboard with the three of us — how could I get the dogs, myself, and all our camping gear across the lake and back using only a paddleboard?
Figuring out the logistics for this crazy goal was no small feat. Initially, I thought I’d simply wear a backpack loaded with my gear while paddling with the dogs. That idea was quickly abandoned when I realized that if I fell in, I’d sink like a stone under the weight of my own supplies. On to Plan B.
I scoured the internet for a solution and, in a moment of questionable judgment, ordered a $20 (or maybe $25) inflatable raft from a budget online store. The pictures made it look sturdy enough — people lounging on it, smiling, seemingly having the time of their lives. But when it arrived, reality set in. This was not a proper watercraft. It was a glorified pool toy.
But time was running out, and the glorified pool toy was my best (and only) option. So, I tied a long ski rope to the raft, loaded it with my camping gear — a tarp, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, food, and water — and hitched it to the paddleboard. No cook stove this trip; I needed to minimize weight. With my black lab and my feisty little Jack Russell perched on the board in front of me, we set off toward the remote campsite, the raft dragging behind us like a stubborn mule.
The journey was slow. Painfully slow. The extra weight and shape of the raft created immense drag, making each stroke of my paddle feel like I was moving through peanut butter. The water was mercifully calm, which was my saving grace. Had there been even a slight chop — waves as small as four inches — it would have been a battle just to stay upright, let alone make forward progress.
But luck was on my side, and after what felt like an eternity, we reached the remote campsite that would be our home for two nights. It was everything I had hoped for — isolated, peaceful, and wild. I set up camp, let the dogs roam, and settled in for a few days of solitude, surrounded by nothing but water, trees, and the occasional cry of a loon.
After our stay, we paddled back to the main campground, where I had left my camper parked in the upper lot.(I had notified the rangers beforehand, letting them know I’d be returning after my island excursion). The rest of the trip was a mix of relaxation and adventure — paddling at sunrise and sunset, hiking the nearby trails, and simply soaking in the beauty of the lake.
Lake Umbagog can be unpredictable. Winds can pick up quickly, and there were moments on the lake when I had to drop to my knees on the paddleboard just to keep control. The dogs, though initially nervous, adapted well, though there were some wobbly moments when they shifted their weight unexpectedly.
The campground itself is well-maintained. The bathrooms have been recently renovated, and while the coin-operated showers don’t have the strongest water pressure, they get the job done. There are also utility sinks for dishwashing — handy for tent campers, though unnecessary if you have an RV and snag a site with electricity.
If you’re considering a trip to Lake Umbagog, plan ahead — getting a prime campsite requires quick action when reservations open. But if you manage to secure one, you’re in for an unforgettable experience. Between the paddling, the hiking, and the sheer beauty of the lake, it’s a destination that will keep calling you back. And if you’re feeling adventurous, like I was, maybe you’ll even try camping on one of the remote campsites. Just make sure your mode of transport isn’t a raft from the bargain bin.
Rating
9 out of 10
History
The Abenaki people were the region’s earliest known inhabitants, relying on Umbagog Lak and its waterways for fishing, hunting, and transportation. The name “Umbagog” itself comes from the Abenaki language, meaning “shallow water.” European settlers arrived in the 18th century, clearing land for farms and using the area’s vast forests for timber. By the 19th century, the lake played a key role in New England’s booming timber industry, with log drives funneling lumber to sawmills downstream. In the late 1800s, the construction of a dam at Errol increased the lake’s area and depth, significantly altering its landscape.
Conservation efforts in the Umbagog region began in the late 20th century as concerns grew over deforestation and habitat loss. In the 1970s, the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department acquired land along the lake’s western shore to protect critical wildlife habitat. Further preservation efforts gained momentum in the 1980s when a coalition of conservation groups and state agencies worked to expand protection around the lake. In 1991, the federal government established the Umbagog National Wildlife Refuge, which, along with Umbagog Lake State Park, ensures long-term conservation of the area’s forests, wetlands, and waterways. The Refuge spans more than 25,000 acres and plays a crucial role in maintaining the biodiversity of the region.
Umbagog Lake State Park, officially designated in 1998, covers over 1,360 acres along the southern shore of the lake in Errol, New Hampshire. Managed by the New Hampshire Division of Parks and Recreation, the park offers campsites, cabins, and access to the lake for boating, fishing, and wildlife viewing. It is known for its remote setting and abundant wildlife, including bald eagles, moose, and loons. In addition to its recreational role, the park serves as a buffer zone, protecting the lake’s shoreline from development. Key land acquisitions made possible through a mix of state purchases, private donations, and federal funding, helped preserve this area. In 1992, the Conservation Fund, a national nonprofit, facilitated the purchase of thousands of acres from the Brown Company, a major timber operation. Other conservation groups, including The Nature Conservancy and the Trust for Public Land, played vital roles in securing additional parcels to expand the protected area.
Today, multiple agencies manage different parts of the Umbagog area. The New Hampshire Division of Parks and Recreation oversees Umbagog Lake State Park, while the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service manages the Umbagog National Wildlife Refuge. The Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands also plays a role in protecting portions of the lake’s eastern shoreline. The combined efforts of these organizations have helped preserve one of the last undeveloped large lake ecosystems in the Northeast.
Stand Up Paddleboarding at Umbagog Lake State Park
What’s Good:
Pristine Wilderness:
- Umbagog Lake is renowned for its untouched natural beauty, with views of forests, mountains, and relatively clear waters.
- The area is part of a wildlife refuge, ensuring minimal development and a true back-to-nature experience.
Calm Waters (when it’s not windy):
- The lake’s shallow and sheltered areas provide smooth water, perfect for beginners or those seeking a relaxing paddle.
Abundant Wildlife:
- The refuge is home to moose, loons, bald eagles, otters, and other species.
Exploration Opportunities:
- Numerous coves, islands, and inlets to explore, making each trip unique.
- The Androscoggin River flows into the lake, offering additional paddling possibilities.
Camping Options:
- The park offers remote campsites accessible by paddleboard or boat, ideal for an overnight wilderness adventure.
Solitude:
- Its remote location means fewer visitors, especially compared to other popular lakes in the region.
What’s Bad:
Remote Location:
- While the remoteness adds to its charm, it also means a long drive and limited nearby services like restaurants or shops.
Variable Weather:
- The weather can change quickly in the mountains, with sudden winds and storms creating challenging conditions.
Bugs:
- Mosquitoes, black flies, and other insects can be more than a nuisance, especially in late spring and early summer. The bugs can be intense.
No Rentals:
- You will need to bring your own paddleboard and gear. Canoe rentals are available.
Things to Consider:
Skill Level:
- Beginners should stay close to shore or within calm coves, while experienced paddlers might venture further or explore the lake.
Safety Gear:
- A personal flotation device (PFD) is required and highly recommended for safety.
- Bring a whistle or signaling device as per New Hampshire and Maine regulations.
Weather Awareness:
- Check the forecast and plan to paddle early in the day when conditions are typically calmer.
- Be prepared to adjust your route or return to shore if the wind picks up.
Navigation:
- Bring a map or GPS, as the lake is large and includes many inlets and islands where it’s easy to lose track of your location.
Camping Permits Required:
- If you plan to camp, reserve your site through the state park or wildlife refuge in advance.
Respect Wildlife and Nature:
- Avoid disturbing nesting loons and other wildlife. The area is protected, so follow Leave No Trace principles.
Seasonal Timing:
- Late summer and early fall are the best times to paddle due to warmer weather and fewer bugs.
Pack for Remote Conditions:
- Bring snacks, water, sunscreen, bug spray, and extra layers.
Camping
Umbagog Lake State Park spans across New Hampshire and Maine, offering diverse camping options, including a base campground with electrical and water hookups, cabins, and remote campsites accessible only by boat.
The base campground provides essential amenities such as picnic tables, fire pits, flush toilets, hot-water showers, trash disposal, and recycling services. RV campers have access to dump stations. Leashed pets are allowed in the base campground but are not permitted in Ellis Camps cabins. Additionally, pets are prohibited in the beachfront day-use area and certain remote campsites within the Umbagog National Wildlife Refuge.
Recreational opportunities include swimming at the park’s beach, fishing, wildlife viewing, and boating. Canoes and kayaks are available for rent, with overnight rentals permitted. Transportation to remote campsites is offered, and campers should contact the campground at least two weeks in advance to arrange boat rentals and transportation.
Additional park amenities include a boat launch, fuel sales, and a park store.
Campground Details:
Season: Memorial Day weekend through Columbus Day weekend. (The park stays open year-round for recreation, but staff and campgrounds are unavailable between mid-October and the end of May. The remote camping season runs from May until September).
Total number of campsites: 66
Number of sites with electricity and water: 27
Total cabins: 2
Total remote campsites: 33
Total remote cabins: 4
Note: remote cabins and campsites are accessible only by boat.
Reservation booking window: 11 months
How difficult is it to get a camping reservation (1=easy, 10=impossible): 8
Fees:
Camping Rate Per Night: Rates vary by site type
Day Use Fees: Adults $4, Children 6–11 $2, Children 5 and under $0, NH Residents 65 and over $0
Things to Check Out Nearby Umbagog Lake State Park
Grafton Notch State Park:
- About 45 minutes south of Umbagog Lake, Grafton Notch State Park offers hiking trails, including the popular Old Speck Mountain Trail. The park’s picturesque views of the mountains and waterfalls make it an excellent destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Mount Washington:
- Around 1.5 hours from Umbagog Lake, Mount Washington is the tallest peak in the northeastern U.S. It’s a popular spot for hiking, scenic drives, and taking in spectacular views from the summit. The Mount Washington Auto Road is open to visitors during the summer months for a drive to the top.
Rangeley Lakes Scenic Byway:
- A scenic drive that takes visitors through the beautiful Rangeley Lakes region, showcasing the area’s natural beauty, forests, and lakes. It’s a wonderful way to experience the landscape while driving at a leisurely pace.
Saddleback Mountain:
- About 40 minutes from Umbagog Lake, Saddleback Mountain offers hiking and mountain biking during the warmer months. The summit provides panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and lakes, making it a favorite destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
L.L. Cote Sports Center
- Located in Errol, NH, this massive outdoor store spans over 50,000 square feet, offering gear for hunting, fishing, camping, and hiking. It’s a great stop to stock up on supplies before heading out on an adventure.
Boom Piers Historic Site
- Situated across from Service Credit Union Heritage Park in Berlin, NH, this historic site showcases remnants of the logging industry’s past. Interpretive signs provide insight into the history of logging along the Androscoggin River.
Moffett House Museum & Genealogy Center
- Located in Berlin, NH, this museum provides a fascinating look into the local history of the region, including genealogy research resources.
Gorham Historical Society & Railroad Museum
- Situated in Gorham, NH, this museum highlights the region’s railroad history with exhibits on old locomotives and the significance of rail transport in the North Country.
Magalloway River Trail
- A beautiful and less-traveled hiking trail near the park offers scenic views of the river and excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting.
Stargazing and Photography
- With minimal light pollution, Umbagog Lake State Park is a prime location for stargazing. The Milky Way is easily visible, and even the northern lights appear on some nights.
You just read a chapter from the book:
“Paddle, Camp, Repeat: 10 Campgrounds for Paddleboarding in the Northeast”
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