Umbagog Lake State Park
00 reviewRoute 26, Cambridge, New Hampshire, 03579, United States
Umbagog Lake State Park
$30.00 - $40.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$35.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Nightly base site fee covers 2 adults and up to 4 dependent children under 18. Extra adults are $10 per night. Additional children are $5 per night. NH Senior Citizens receive a $5 per night discount. NH State Employees receive a 50% discount on campsites, excluding yurts and cabins.
About this campground
Deep in New Hampshire's wilderness, Umbagog Lake State Park beckons adventurers seeking authentic backcountry experiences. With 33 secluded campsites and 4 cozy remote cabins scattered along pristine shorelines, this hidden gem serves as your gateway to the magnificent Umbagog Lake National Wildlife Refuge. Wake to the haunting calls of loons echoing across misty waters, spot majestic bald eagles soaring overhead, and catch glimpses of playful river otters diving beneath the surface. As evening falls, you might even encounter a moose wading through the shallows—a true testament to the park's untamed beauty.
Umbagog Lake State Park offers a mix of camping experiences, including landside campgrounds with modern facilities, remote primitive campsites accessible by boat, and remote cabins.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the gentle rhythm of northern New England's seasons at Umbagog Lake. Winter transforms the landscape into a serene wonderland, with crisp air and moderate snowfall creating perfect conditions for snowshoeing and wildlife tracking. As summer arrives, the park becomes a comfortable retreat with temperatures hovering between 55 and 75°F—ideal for paddling adventures and lakeside relaxation. While occasional summer showers refresh the forest, most days offer clear skies perfect for exploring this wilderness sanctuary.
ElevationNestled within the rolling terrain of northern New Hampshire's lake country.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the breathtaking Great North Woods Management Area, where ancient forests meet crystal-clear waters in perfect harmony. Dense stands of spruce, fir, and hardwoods create a verdant canopy that shelters an incredible array of wildlife. The park's crown jewel, pristine Umbagog Lake, stretches across the landscape like a mirror reflecting the surrounding wilderness. Here, every sunrise brings new wildlife encounters—from the distinctive silhouette of a bald eagle perched on a weathered pine to the gentle ripples left by a family of otters at play. This is nature's theater at its finest, where moose emerge from morning mists and loons serenade the setting sun.
Geological RegionSituated within the remarkable Great North Woods Management Area, this remote wilderness sanctuary represents one of New England's last truly wild frontiers. The park's location adjacent to the Umbagog Lake National Wildlife Refuge creates an expansive protected ecosystem where nature reigns supreme, offering visitors an authentic glimpse into the region's pristine boreal landscape.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific information on accessibility features for individuals with disabilities is available.
Sites SizeThe main campground has a mix of small to moderately sized campsites. Some remote sites offer platforms for tents.
Sites PrivacyRemote sites are noted for their high level of privacy, with some reviewers mentioning not seeing other campers during their stay. However, landside campsites are described as less private and closer together.
Total Campsites66 campsites
Recommended CampsitesRemote sites provide privacy and unique experiences, especially on islands or peninsulas. Avoid roadside campsites due to noise from logging trucks.
Best CampsitesRemote sites are highly recommended for privacy and scenic views. Site #41 has direct water access.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
8:00 AM
Stay Limit
- Maximum stay limits vary
- check specific site information.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum number of guests for remote sites varies depending on the site.
Groups
No specific information regarding group sites is available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutMain campground contains a mix of RV and tent sites near Route 26. Remote sites are accessible only by boat and offer more privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonRemote sites are closed until July 20th due to loon nesting.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made at Reserve America Call Center at 1-877-647-2757 or via www.nhstateparks.org.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability details are not provided.
Cancellation PolicyFull refund minus transaction fee if canceled at least 10 days prior to arrival. Partial refund based on time of cancellation. No refunds for cancellations 0-3 days prior or due to insects/weather.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Camp Store
Laundry Facilities
Activities you can enjoy
Umbagog Lake State Park offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including boating, fishing, wildlife viewing, swimming, and hiking. Boating is a standout activity, with access to both motorized and non-motorized watercraft rentals. The park’s natural setting provides excellent opportunities for observing loons, eagles, and other wildlife.
Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity at the park, though no specific details about fish species or fishing conditions were provided.Swimming
The park features a beach area suitable for swimming. Some areas are described as shallow and safe for children.Boating
Boating is a key activity, with canoe and kayak rentals available. The lake allows motorboats, but some reviewers recommend using paddles or trolling motors to preserve the serenity of the environment.Wildlife viewing
The park is renowned for its wildlife viewing opportunities, with frequent sightings of loons, bald eagles, river otters, and moose.Beach activities
The park offers a small beach area that accommodates activities such as swimming and picnicking.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as canoeing and kayaking are popular here, with rentals available to visitors.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed; firewood must be purchased locally.
- Quiet hours are not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsLimited cell service reported in the area. Bugs are described as 'intense' by user reviews.
Active alertsRemote campsites are closed until July 20th due to loon nesting.
Weather forecast
66
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 83%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 2.2 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency Police/Fire/Ambulance: Dial 911. Park office phone number: 603-482-7795. Errol Police: 603-846-5517. Androscoggin Valley Hospital, Berlin: 603-752-2200.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season dates are not explicitly mentioned.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, and the park also has a recycling station.
Proximity to water featuresDirect access to Umbagog Lake. Canoe and kayak rentals are available.
Common complaintsSite conditions for trailers are uneven. Bugs are intense. Showers are coin-operated and deemed expensive. Some reports of small, unprivate campsites.
HostStaff described as friendly and helpful in multiple reviews. Park office phone: 603-482-7795.
Campground Map
Route 26, Cambridge, New Hampshire, 03579, United States
Driving directionsFrom I-93: Take exit 36 onto Route 3 North. Follow Route 3, to Route 115, to Route 2, to Route 16, to Route 26. Follow Route 26 for seven miles to Umbagog Lake State Park. From I-95: Take Route 16 north to Route 26 east. Follow Route 26 for seven miles to Umbagog Lake State Park.
Access roads are paved and navigable from major highways including I-93 and I-95. Seasonal road conditions are not mentioned, but no specific challenging terrain is stated.Nearby places
Cambridge - 7 miles
Nearby supplies
Groceries and essentials available 40 minutes away. LL Cote in Errol for camping supplies. Fuel available within the park.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Umbagog Lake State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Umbagog Lake State Park are generally positive, highlighting the park's natural beauty, wildlife, and opportunities for solitude at remote sites. However, landside campsites receive mixed reviews, with some mentioning crowding and noise from the nearby highway.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Frequent praise for the remote campsites' privacy, opportunities to observe wildlife (e.g., loons, eagles, moose), and well-maintained facilities. Reviewers also appreciate the friendly and helpful...
Show more
Common Concerns
Criticisms include high costs for showers and firewood, lack of privacy and space at landside campsites, and noise from the nearby highway. Some reviewers also mentioned issues with park management...
Show more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring quarters for the coin-operated showers, bug netting for intense bugs, and plan transportation in advance for remote sites. Consider renting a canoe or kayak to fully experience the lake.
Seasonal Insights
Spring and summer reviews emphasize the beauty of the lake and wildlife, while fall reviews highlight the area's foliage. Winter activities are not mentioned, suggesting the park may not see...
Show more
Camper Quotes
- 'We didn't hear another human the entire time, just loons and other wildlife.'
- 'The best state campground bathroom I've ever been in.'
- 'Bring bug netting and bug screening. The bugs are...
Show more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 4 is described as 'completely unlevel,' requiring extra effort to level trailers. Site 37 is praised for its seclusion and accessibility only by boat. Site 41 has direct water access.
Accessibility Features
No specific accessibility reviews available.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but some reviewers noted issues with off-leash dogs. Pets are not allowed on the beach but can accompany campers on trails.
Last updated August 10, 2025