Wellington State Park Title

Located on the shore of Newfound Lake in Bristol, 204-acre Wellington State Park boasts the largest freshwater swimming beach in the New Hampshire State Park system. Hiking trails and picnic areas along the shore afford views of one of the deepest and clearest lakes in the state. Two group picnic pavilions, available for reservation, are located just off the beach in the picnic areas. The park also maintains volleyball and horseshoe courts. The Snack Bar offers a variety of snacks, ice cream, cold drinks, beach and picnic items, and souvenirs.
 
Within the park, the peninsula nature trail features picnic areas, designated fishing areas, plant identification markers, and spectacular views of Newfound Lake and Cliff and Belle Islands. A well-marked hiking trail leads from the park and provides hikers access to Goose Pond, the Sugarloafs, Bear Mountain, Welton Falls, and Mt.Cardigan. A developed boat launch operated by N.H. Fish & Game adjoins the park, providing boaters free year-round access to Newfound Lake. Boat lanes along the beach allow boater access to the park for the regular admission price.

Organized youth group camping is offered on both Belle and Cliff Islands. Reservations are required and may be made from mid-May through the summer season by calling the park directly.

The park is open 9:00am - 7:30pm, weekends only starting May 17; then full-time from June 14 through September 1; then weekends only through October 13, 2008, weather permitting. Lifeguards are on duty daily from June 21 through September 1. Gates and the boat launch are always open. 

Admission is $4 for adults; $2 for children ages 6-11; children ages 5 and under and NH residents age 65 and over are admitted free.

For information on beach advisories, please visit the State of New Hampshire, Department of Environmental Services website page on Beach Advisories.

Are pets allowed at Wellington State Park? Pets are not permitted at the park. See NH State Parks Pets Policy for more information.