Archives: Locations

For a swimming experience on the more natural and secluded side (without lifeguards, swimsuit optional), there are many secret swimming holes in the area. One is actually listed online at SwimmingHoles.info. This unofficial swim spot is located in Pisgah State Park. It’s about a .7-mile hike from...

This river-fed swimming pool in Alstead is located on Route 123A and offers swimming, boating and fishing. There is no fee. A lifeguard is on duty at times. There is a playground and public events are scheduled throughout the summer at this recreation area.

Located off Route 10 in Winchester, Forest Lake offers a sandy beach with a lifeguard on duty, bathrooms and changing facilities. Parking is free for residents with a dump sticker. Nonresidents pay $2 a day, or $10 for the season.

Jaffrey has two public beaches. The Thorndike Pond beach is for residents only. The Contoocook Lake beach on Squantum Road is open to the general public from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and has a lifeguard, bathrooms, picnic tables and a concession stand. Alcohol, glass containers, floatation devices and loud...

People who prefer a wild swimming experience without amenities or lifeguards can find clear cold water in Southeastern Vermont’s West River, which offers many swimming holes and tubing opportunities. Water shoes are recommended and swimmers should be aware of possible strong currents. The river offers...

Located off Route 12A north of Keene and maintained by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, look for the entrance to the Surry Mountain Lake Recreation Area on the right. A 600-foot sandy beach offers great views of the surrounding hills with free admission. There are no lifeguards. In addition to swimming,...