Swim Cool Water and Ride the Conway Scenic Railroad
Why Rent On Conway Lake
Conway Lake covers 1,316 acres of clear New Hampshire water just east of the White Mountains, flanked by the towns of Conway, Bartlett, and Eaton in a setting that balances natural beauty with genuine small-town convenience. The lake has a public beach and boat launch added in 1952, and the original mill site on Mill Street, now a park, marks where Captain Timothy Walker built his sawmill and gristmill in 1773. Staying in a lakefront vacation home here puts your family at the doorstep of both the lake and everything the Mount Washington Valley has to offer.
On the Water and in the Mountains
Swimming, boating, kayaking, and fishing fill the warmer days on Conway Lake, and the surrounding White Mountain landscape opens up almost unlimited hiking options within a short drive. Cathedral Ledge and Whitehorse Ledge are among the most celebrated rock climbing destinations in the Northeast, with routes ranging from beginner-friendly top ropes to serious multi-pitch climbs that draw athletes from across New England.
Conway’s Attractions Fill Every Kind of Day
The Conway Scenic Railroad runs seasonal excursions through the Mount Washington Valley on historic equipment, and the New England Ski Museum in Franconia provides a genuinely engaging look at winter sports history in the region. Diana’s Baths, a series of smooth granite waterfalls a short drive from the lake, is one of those afternoon hikes that families return to repeatedly because the kids always want to go back.
The Kancamagus Highway
The Kancamagus Highway, one of the most celebrated scenic drives in New England, begins just west of Conway and runs 35 miles through the White Mountains to Lincoln. Fall foliage along this road is among the most photographed in the country, and pulling over at the Swift River swimming holes on a warm August afternoon is a time-honored Lakes Region tradition.
A White Mountain Lake Base
A vacation rental near Conway Lake gives your family a comfortable, centrally located base for everything the White Mountain region offers. Lakefront homes with full kitchens, lake views, and proximity to both the mountain trailheads and North Conway’s village make this a genuinely versatile destination for an active family week.
- Surface area (mi)
- 3.11
- Max depth (ft)
- 45.93
- Elevation (ft)
- 436.35
- Shoreline length (mi)
- 19.2
Popular activities
- Boating
- Waterskiing
- Wakeboarding
- Kayaking
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Jet Skiing
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Marinas on Conway Lake
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Conway Lake has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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There have been increased reports of cyanobacteria (harmful algal blooms) in New Hampshire lakes recently. In 2024, the amount of potentially toxic blooms more than doubled the average in past years “Conway Lake 2024 Water Quality Highlight Report” by Bob Craycraft, Miranda Benson.
In the the Conway Lake 2024 Water Quality Highlight Report it cited 17 New Hampshire beaches have notices for cyanobacteria, fecal bacteria, which suggests the lake is actively monitored, but sounds like caution is needed.
Before swimming, check the NH DES Healthy Swimming Mapper online for any current advisories at Conway Lake. Look for any posted signs at the lake, and avoid swimming if you notice unusual algae growth, foul odors, or discolored water. The water quality can change quickly based on weather conditions and other factors.
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Conway is a popular destination because of its scenic attractions and outdoor activities. It features the Kancamagus Highway, a scenic drive with waterfalls and hiking trails, as well as Diana’s Baths, a short hike to multi-level waterfalls. Other attractions include Echo Lake State Park and the Conway Scenic Railroad.
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There are specific fishing restrictions on Conway Lake in New Hampshire. The area of the lake within 500 feet of the outlet dam is closed to all fishing from October 16 through December 31. Additionally, no houseboats are allowed on the lake.
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Yes, there is a public beach at Conway Lake with a boat launch. The boat launch is located on Mill St. in Center Conway, NH, and the beach offers swimming. Parking across the street from the beach is restricted to Conway town residents, vacation home owners, and renters with parking stickers.
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Conway Lake is located near the towns of Conway and Eaton in New Hampshire. These towns are situated in Carroll County, with Eaton being just south of Conway. The lake is a significant geographical feature in this area.
