Cliff Island, Alexandria, NH

Introduction / Overview

For organized youth groups across the Granite State—including Scout troops, school clubs, and community recreation programs—Cliff Island offers one of the most unique and rugged camping experiences available in the New Hampshire State Park system. This isn't your typical roadside campground; Cliff Island is a small, pristine parcel of land located within the famously clear waters of Newfound Lake. It is exclusively designated for organized youth group camping, which ensures a focus on traditional outdoor skills, teamwork, and the fundamental principles of Leave No Trace.

Managed through the nearby Wellington State Park, Cliff Island provides a true primitive island camping adventure. Groups must be entirely self-sufficient, relying on their own boating and packing skills to reach and sustain their stay. This commitment to the basics is precisely what makes it an "absolutely perfect" destination for developing independence and appreciation for the natural world, as noted by groups who utilize its secluded setting. The island is known for its ample space to pitch tents, plentiful deadfall for campfires, and the incredible tranquility of a lake setting that one recent group noted was "completely mosquito free" in early September, making for a truly enjoyable wilderness experience.

Location and Accessibility

Cliff Island is situated on Newfound Lake, one of the deepest and cleanest lakes in the country, fed by natural springs. While its official administrative address is linked to the mainland—2 Ledgeview Shore Dr, Alexandria, NH 03222, USA—it is crucial for local users to understand that Cliff Island itself is only accessible by boat.

The island is managed by Wellington State Park, which is located in Bristol, NH, and boasts the largest freshwater swimming beach in the state park system. Access to Cliff Island camping begins by utilizing the park's resources. While the Wellington State Park beach and boat launch area (operated by N.H. Fish & Game) provide the necessary access point to Newfound Lake, groups must provide their own watercraft—canoes, kayaks, or motorboats—to transport their gear and campers to the island. This requirement for self-transport is a core part of the primitive camping experience. Once on the island, groups will find designated areas for exploring and setting up camp along the south side, which also features an Adirondack shelter, offering beautiful, unobstructed views across the stunning lake.

Services Offered

Due to its classification as a primitive, boat-access island campground for youth groups, the list of 'services' is intentionally minimal, adhering to a "pack-in, pack-out" ethos that teaches self-reliance and environmental responsibility.

Exclusive Youth Group Camping: The island is strictly reserved for organized youth groups (like Scouts, clubs, etc.) and is not available for family or general public camping.
Primitive Tent Sites: Ample space is available across the island to pitch tents, allowing for flexible group setups within designated areas.
Basic Latrine Facilities: The island is equipped with two pit/vault latrines, with one designated for each of the two main camping sites (Cliff Island North and South).
Group Picnic Tables: Several picnic tables are available, particularly on the south side, providing common areas for meals and group planning.
Adirondack Shelter: A rustic Adirondack structure is available on the south side, offering a covered area for gathering or shelter.
Natural Firewood: Plenty of natural deadfall wood is available for campfires (always check current fire restrictions).
Water Access: Direct access to the exceptionally clean Newfound Lake for water-based activities (Note: All drinking water and cooking water must be packed in or treated on-site).

Features / Highlights

The unique features of Cliff Island are centered around its pure wilderness setting and its function as an essential training ground for young outdoors enthusiasts:

Boat-Access Only Isolation: The requirement of using a boat to access the island provides a level of separation and tranquility rarely found in drive-up campgrounds. It removes groups from crowds and noise, allowing for a more focused, natural experience.
Stunning Lake Setting: Camping is done right on the shore of Newfound Lake, famous for having some of the cleanest and clearest water in the state. Groups can enjoy swimming (water temperature was noted to be 70 degrees in early September), exploration, and beautiful scenic views.
Educational Environment: The "pack-in, pack-out and leave no trace" mandate makes this a perfect site for teaching youth groups critical wilderness ethics, survival skills, and environmental stewardship.
Mosquito-Free Periods: Customer reports highlight periods—such as early September—where the island is "completely mosquito free," adding significantly to the enjoyment of the outdoor experience.
Exploration Opportunities: The island itself provides plenty of natural space and forest for youth to explore safely, conducting activities like nature walks, map reading, and scavenger hunts.
Ideal for Groups: The two dedicated sites (North and South) and the communal gathering spots are perfectly laid out to accommodate the needs of multiple tents, group activities, and meetings for organizations like the Boy Scouts.

Contact Information

Since Cliff Island is an extension of Wellington State Park and is only available for organized youth group reservations, direct contact must be made with the appropriate State Park office to secure a booking. Reservations are required and may be made from mid-May through the summer season.

For Reservations and Information:

Address (Wellington State Park/Administrative Point): 2 Ledgeview Shore Dr, Alexandria, NH 03222, USA

Phone (State Park Office for Reservations): Please contact the New Hampshire State Parks main office for youth group reservation procedures, as the island is not a standard family campground. The main State Parks contact information or Wellington State Park’s specific line should be used to inquire about booking the island sites. (Note: The provided phone numbers are not for Cliff Island directly, but the Wellington State Park office governs reservations for the island.)

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For New Hampshire residents involved in youth development—Scout leaders, teachers, and program directors—Cliff Island on Newfound Lake is an invaluable local resource. Its suitability lies in its rigorous dedication to authentic, primitive camping, a rarity in today's convenience-driven world. By requiring boat access and adherence to strict 'Leave No Trace' policies, the island actively encourages the development of self-reliance, leadership, and a deep, lifelong respect for New Hampshire's natural environment in young participants.

This isn't just a place to pitch a tent; it’s a living classroom for outdoor skills. The island's tranquil, isolated environment, free from the noise and light pollution of the mainland, provides a genuine opportunity for boys and girls to unplug, focus on teamwork, and experience the immense beauty of Newfound Lake. For those local groups committed to teaching the foundations of camping and wilderness ethics, Cliff Island stands as the definitive, challenging, and rewarding island experience right in the heart of the Granite State.