On Golden Pond

Squam Lake

Squam Lake is the filming location of the 1981 classic "On Golden Pond" — and it's every bit as magical in person. At 6,791 acres, it's New Hampshire's second-largest lake, with pristine water, 67 isl...

6,791 acres
Surface Area
67
Islands
99 feet
Max Depth
Pristine & wild
Character
About the Lake

Why Squam Lake?

Squam Lake is the filming location of the 1981 classic "On Golden Pond" — and it's every bit as magical in person. At 6,791 acres, it's New Hampshire's second-largest lake, with pristine water, 67 islands, and a deliberately undeveloped shoreline that feels like stepping back in time.

Unlike Winnipesaukee, Squam has no commercial development on its shores. The Squam Lakes Association and Squam Lakes Conservation Society have worked for decades to preserve the lake's wild character. This makes waterfront properties here exceptionally rare and highly valued.

The Squam Lakes Natural Science Center in Holderness offers world-class nature exhibits, boat cruises, and loon monitoring programs. Rattlesnake Mountain provides one of the best easy hikes in New England with panoramic views of the lake and surrounding peaks.

Explore

Squam Lake Map

Vacation Rentals

Browse our Lakes Region rentals

Yankee Pedlar manages the largest collection of waterfront rentals in the region. Browse the full portfolio or contact us for help finding the right fit near Squam Lake.

Explore the Area

Towns on Squam Lake

Holderness

Home of On Golden Pond

Holderness is famous as the home of Squam Lake — the filming location for "On Golden Pond." Plymouth State University is nearby, and the town offers a mix of academic community, nature tourism, and some of the most pristine lakefront in New England.

Squam Lakes Natural Science Center"On Golden Pond" filming locationSquam Lake — pristine & secluded

Center Harbor

Between Two Great Lakes

Center Harbor is a small, scenic village nestled between Lake Winnipesaukee and Squam Lake. Despite its tiny size, it's centrally located in the Lakes Region and offers charming New England character with easy access to both lakes and the surrounding mountains.

Between Winnipesaukee & Squam LakeQuaint village centerWinnipesaukee Scenic Railroad stop

Sandwich

Postcard New England

Sandwich (officially "Town of Sandwich") is one of New Hampshire's most picturesque and historic communities. Nestled between the Squam Range and the Sandwich Range, it offers stunning mountain scenery, a vibrant arts community, and a deeply preserved New England village character.

Sandwich Fair (one of NH's oldest agricultural fairs)Sandwich Range Wilderness — White Mountain NFSandwich Historical Society & museum

Moultonborough

Low Taxes, Big Views

Moultonborough wraps around the northern and western shores of Lake Winnipesaukee and includes popular Long Island. Known for its low tax rate, excellent schools, and the iconic Castle in the Clouds, it's a top choice for both vacation homeowners and year-round families.

Lowest tax rate in the Lakes RegionCastle in the Clouds historic estateRed Hill summit with panoramic lake views
Fishing

Fishing on Squam Lake

Two-tier: coldwater (salmon, lake trout) + warmwater (bass) · Open water: April–October. Ice fishing: December–March. Salmon season opens April 1.

Coldwater Species

Landlocked SalmonStockedTrophy fishery — annual stocking
Lake TroutStocked
Rainbow TroutStocked
Cusk (Burbot)
WhitefishCaught through the ice

Warmwater Species

Smallmouth BassRocky islands and drop-offs
Largemouth Bass
Pickerel
White Perch
Yellow Perch
Hornpout

Forage Species

Rainbow Smelt

Access & Regulations

Public boat launch at Holderness town ramp. Additional access at Squam Lakes Association sites. 25 hp motor limit on Little Squam.

NH F&G stocks landlocked salmon and lake trout annually. Smelt populations are critical forage.

NH Fish & Game Regulations

Local Tips

Island structure and ledges — excellent smallmouth bass habitat
Deep-water trolling for lake trout between the islands
Spring salmon trolling near tributary inlets
Pristine environment — catch and release encouraged
Lead tackle banned statewide — use non-lead alternatives
Own Property on Squam Lake?

List your waterfront home with Yankee Pedlar. We manage the largest rental portfolio in the Lakes Region and can help maximize your property's income.

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