Moon Island, Holderness, NH

Moon Island: The Authentic, Boat-Access Camping Experience on New Hampshire's Squam Lake

Introduction / Overview

For New Hampshire locals who value conservation, quiet recreation, and an authentic "carry-in, carry-out" camping experience, Moon Island on Squam Lake represents a truly special destination. Located near Holderness, this is not your typical drive-up campground with full RV hookups; rather, it is a primitive, highly coveted island campsite managed by the Squam Lakes Association (SLA). Moon Island offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the unspoiled natural beauty of Squam Lake, famously known as the setting for the film 'On Golden Pond.'

The experience on Moon Island is defined by its pristine environment and limited accessibility. Camping is only permitted in designated sites and requires either a boat trip—typically a canoe or kayak—from the SLA headquarters or a scenic hike combined with a water crossing to reach the island. This necessary effort ensures a secluded, low-impact environment, which is highly prized by those seeking true wilderness solitude. The SLA’s management strongly emphasizes the 'Leave No Trace' ethic, preserving the 30-acre island for future generations of local campers and nature lovers. Reservations are essential and often highly sought after, reflecting the island’s immense popularity among those who truly appreciate Squam Lake's commitment to conservation.

Location and Accessibility

Moon Island is located on Squam Lake, near Holderness, NH 03226, USA. While the official address points to the mainland area of operation, the island itself is a distinct, non-vehicular destination. Its location in the tranquil and highly protected Squam Lake system ensures a uniquely peaceful camping experience, far removed from the noise and development found on many of the larger New Hampshire lakes. The primary means of accessing Moon Island are as follows:

Water Access Only: The island is primarily reached by boat, and only non-motorized vessels or boats with electric motors are generally used in this area of the lake, maintaining the peaceful environment. Campers typically launch their canoes or kayaks from the Squam Lakes Association headquarters on Route 3 in Holderness, approximately a 45-minute to one-hour paddle away, depending on conditions.
Limited Docks: The island features designated docks, including one for general camping access and one reserved for loading/unloading, which are available on a first-come, first-served basis, reinforcing the primitive nature of the site.
Conservation-Focused Setting: As one of the few publicly accessible islands on the lake, Moon Island is surrounded by the natural, undeveloped shoreline that the Squam Lakes Association works diligently to maintain, offering views of the Squam Range Mountains.

It is crucial for visitors to understand that there is no vehicle access directly to the island's campsites, making thorough planning for gear transport a necessity.

Services Offered

The services provided at Moon Island reflect its status as a primitive, ecological-minded camping area. The offerings are designed to minimize environmental impact while providing basic necessities for a comfortable stay:

Designated Campsites: The 30-acre island features a limited number of distinct, reserved campsites, including both small (6-person) and large (12-person) group sites, which helps to concentrate impact and protect the surrounding forest.
Primitive Sanitation: Composting toilets are provided at the camping areas and a Clivus Multrum toilet facility is available near the loading dock, ensuring responsible waste management without disrupting the island’s ecosystem.
Firewood Included: To prevent the importation and spread of invasive insects, one bundle of locally sourced firewood per night is included with the reservation, and outside firewood is strictly prohibited.
Dedicated Fire Rings: Each designated campsite includes a fire ring for campfires, emphasizing safety and preventing environmental damage from errant fires.
Tent Platforms: To prevent ground compaction and soil erosion, some sites are equipped with wooden or pea stone tent platforms, and campers must utilize them where provided.
Boat Rentals: The Squam Lakes Association, which manages the island, provides kayak and canoe rentals from their headquarters, a crucial service for campers without their own non-motorized vessel.

It is vital to note that Moon Island is a

“pack it in, pack it out”

facility, meaning no trash receptacles are provided, and all waste must be carried back to the mainland.

Features / Highlights

Moon Island’s unique features make it a standout for locals seeking a genuine wilderness experience combined with the tranquility of the Squam Lake region:

Exceptional Seclusion and Quiet: The boat-access requirement and strict quiet hours (especially after 9:30 PM) ensure a serene experience free from the noise of cars, RVs, and commercial activity.
Dedicated Conservation Focus: Camping here supports the Squam Lakes Association’s mission to protect the lake. Residents are directly participating in low-impact recreation principles and 'Leave No Trace' ethics.
Unique Camping Surface Options: Sites offer varied setups, including tent platforms to protect the ground, providing a clean and level surface for sleeping.
Stunning Paddling and Exploration: The location provides an unparalleled base for exploring the calm waters, numerous small coves, and other protected islands of Squam Lake by kayak or canoe.
Access to Hiking Opportunities: While on the island, campers are near the mainland’s well-known trails, including the scenic West Rattlesnake Mountain and the trails of the Chamberlain-Reynolds Memorial Forest, offering breathtaking views of the lake.
No Pets Allowed on Moon Island: This specific rule caters to campers seeking an extra level of quiet and to protect the island's sensitive wildlife habitat.

Contact Information

Moon Island campsites are managed by the Squam Lakes Association (SLA). All reservations and inquiries related to the island camping program must be directed to their headquarters.

Address: Holderness, NH 03226, USA (Campsite location on Squam Lake)

SLA Headquarters Contact (For Reservations and Inquiries):

Please refer to the Squam Lakes Association website or call their main line for current phone contact information and reservation details, as bookings are required and often utilize a lottery or highly competitive system due to demand.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Moon Island is uniquely suitable for New Hampshire residents, particularly those who appreciate the state’s natural legacy and are prepared for a true outdoor adventure. It represents a rare opportunity to access an island on the highly protected Squam Lake for overnight camping, an experience largely unattainable elsewhere in the region due to privatization. For the local paddler, hiker, or angler, it’s a convenient, close-to-home escape that feels worlds away from the daily grind.

By camping on Moon Island, locals are not just booking a site; they are actively supporting the conservation efforts of the Squam Lakes Association and adhering to a higher standard of outdoor stewardship. The island offers an unplugged, low-impact retreat that prioritizes the sound of nature over motorboats, making it the perfect restorative getaway for Granite Staters seeking quiet reflection, pristine waters, and the chance to truly live the 'Live Free or Die' spirit through respectful wilderness exploration.