Umbagog Lake State Park Campground

- RR 26, Errol, NH 03579

Introduction / Overview

For New Hampshire locals seeking the true, restorative silence of the Great North Woods, Umbagog Lake State Park Campground stands out as a genuine hidden gem. Located in the picturesque town of Errol, this state park offers an experience that expertly balances rugged wilderness immersion with exceptional, well-maintained facilities. It is a vital access point to the breathtaking Umbagog Lake, a large, pristine body of water straddling the border with Maine and forming part of the Umbagog Lake National Wildlife Refuge. This is where New Hampshire's natural heritage is on full display.

Visitors consistently rave about the park's tranquil environment, highlighted by the iconic, haunting calls of the common loon, which is a prevalent and beloved feature of the lake. Far from being a mere roadside stop, Umbagog Lake State Park is a destination designed for the serious outdoor enthusiast, the family seeking a digital detox, and the New Hampshire native who appreciates a state park run with professional dedication. The park's commitment to high standards is evident in the positive feedback from users, who frequently praise the friendly, professional staff—from the maintenance crew, like Danny, keeping the cabins and grounds immaculate, to team members like Drew, ensuring docks and tools are perfectly organized. This smooth, efficient operation has earned the park a reputation as one of the best-kept state parks in the entire country, a point of pride for Granite Staters. It’s a place where the attention to detail, as noted by long-time park-goers, ensures a memorable and hassle-free stay.

Location and Accessibility

Umbagog Lake State Park Campground is tucked away in the very northeastern corner of the state, firmly in the Great North Woods region. The official address is RR 26, Errol, NH 03579, USA. It is situated directly on Route 26, seven miles east of the small town of Errol, placing it in a remote but strategically accessible location for those coming from downstate or neighboring regions.

While the location ensures a peaceful, true wilderness atmosphere, accessibility is straightforward. Route 26 is a well-maintained state route. For residents navigating from central or southern New Hampshire, the route typically involves scenic drives on Routes 3 and 16 before connecting to Route 26. The park offers both a central, easy-access base camp area for RVs and trailers, as well as a network of secluded, boat-access-only sites and cabins around the lake. The remote sites are accessible only by watercraft, adding an element of true exploration for those prepared to venture out. A well-maintained boat launch is available at the base camp, providing convenient access to the 19.76 square miles of Umbagog Lake.

Services Offered

The services at Umbagog Lake State Park Campground are robust, catering to a wide range of camping styles, from full hookup RVs to rugged, boat-in tents.

• Campground Variety: Offers a mix of approximately 19 RV sites with electric and water hookups, multiple standard tent sites, and over 30 remote boat-in campsites for a truly primitive experience.
• Comfort Facilities: Features a clean, newly renovated bathhouse with hot showers and flush toilets, essential for a comfortable stay after a day of exploration.
• Cabin Rentals: Provides several cozy, well-maintained rental cabins at the base camp, and four extremely secluded, boat-access-only remote cabins (like Jenny's Cabin) that include basic amenities like propane heat and stove, and solar lighting.
• Watercraft & Transportation: Canoe, kayak, and rowboat rentals are available directly from the park office. Staff can also arrange for transportation of campers and gear to the remote campsites and cabins for a small fee.
• Essential Services: A park store or office offers a selection of essentials, including ice, firewood, and basic supplies. A sanitary dump station is available for registered RV campers.
• Accessibility: The park features ADA-compliant paths and designated accessible campsites.
• Staff Support: Known for exceptional customer service, with staff members highly praised for their professionalism, clear guidance, and constant commitment to maintaining the facilities.

Features / Highlights

The true highlights of Umbagog Lake State Park are the distinct experiences and unique natural setting it provides, making it a standout for New Hampshire residents.

• Exceptional Wildlife Viewing: The campground's location next to the Umbagog Lake National Wildlife Refuge offers unparalleled opportunities to view common loons, bald eagles, osprey, river otters, and moose. The nightly loon calls are a noted favorite among returning campers.
• Unique Boat-In Camping: The opportunity to rent a remote, secluded campsite or cabin accessible only by boat is a highlight, offering a level of privacy and wilderness immersion rarely found in state parks.
• Pristine Lake Recreation: The large, clean lake is ideal for swimming at the designated beach area, excellent cold-water fishing (for trout and salmon), and general boating, with a marina and boat launch conveniently located.
• Family-Friendly Amenities: The presence of a playground, picnic areas, and interpretive, nature-based programs run by interpretive rangers (part of the Discover Power of Parks programming) make it perfect for families.
• All-Season Access: While the main campground is open seasonally (Memorial Day to Columbus Day weekend), the park remains accessible year-round for recreational activities like snowmobiling, providing access to the vast statewide trail network during the winter months.

Contact Information

Umbagog Lake State Park Campground

Address: RR 26, Errol, NH 03579, USA

Phone: (603) 482-7795 (Park Office)

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Umbagog Lake State Park Campground is perfectly suited for New Hampshire locals because it offers a quintessential Granite State wilderness experience without sacrificing quality or organization. For the resident who loves to camp, this park provides options for every comfort level—from full-hookup RV sites for a family weekend to rugged, boat-in primitive sites for the seasoned explorer. The remote northern location means fewer crowds than the more southerly parks, allowing locals to truly feel connected to the vast, untouched nature that defines their state's northern region. The commitment of the staff to cleanliness and efficiency, making the entire operation run "like a Swiss timepiece" as one visitor described, ensures that a weekend spent here is focused purely on relaxation and adventure, not on dealing with poorly maintained facilities. Whether you are coming to fish for the day, hear the loons from your RV, or experience a secluded boat-in cabin, Umbagog Lake State Park offers a gold-standard New Hampshire getaway that locals should proudly frequent and support.

Umbagog Lake State Park Campground

RR 26, Errol, NH 03579, USA