Water defines New Hampshire’s Monadnock Region—literally! The Connecticut River runs along our western border, as it winds its way into Massachusetts and beyond. (You may hear this area described as the Connecticut River Valley.) Tributaries like the Asheulot flow through the Monadnock Region past Keene and Swanzey into the Connecticut.
Moving east, we have dozens of ponds and lakes over many thousands of acres of water perfect for kayaking and canoeing, sailing and fishing—many with public beaches where the family can go for a summertime dip. Then there’s the Contoocook River which flows from Contoocook Lake near Jaffrey and Rindge toward Concord.
For anglers, the State of New Hampshire Fish and Game website lists the kinds of fish you can find in the Monadnock Region, and where to locate them. Look here for information on our fishing seasons and regulations.
For boaters, check out the map of NH water access sites.
Kayakers and canoers are spoiled for choice. Try a day on Nubanusit Lake near Nelson and Hancock, NH. Or paddle along the Connecticut River near West Chesterfield.
Need a rental? Try out Monadnock Paddle, a new and convenient kayak and canoe rental in Fitzwilliam.
Swimmers can have a great day at Swanzey Lake or Edward McDowell Lake . And that’s just for starters.
In fact, there are so many great places to go swimming, we wrote a whole other post about it. Head on over here for some more suggestions on spots, like Spofford Lake and Otter Lake (CLOSED FOR 2024 FOR PARK IMPROVEMENT PROJECT), that don’t only have beaches with swimming, but in many cases offer kayak, canoe, and paddle board rental.
Whatever you do, exercise caution—our waterways can be enormous fun, but it pays to be careful. We want you to get home dried off, safe and sound. And wear sunblock!
Many of those who visit the Monadnock Region eventually take the plunge and end up calling it home. Interested in information and resources on moving here? We’ve got just the place for you.
