Great East Lake is an 1,825-acre water body located in Carroll County, New Hampshire, and York County, Maine, in the United States. The lake is shared by the towns of Wakefield, New Hampshire, and Acton, Maine, with 45% of its surface area in Acton and 55% in Wakefield. The lake is the farthest upstream of the five headwater lakes of the Salmon Falls River, a tributary of the Piscataqua River. Water from Great East Lake flows out its dam and through the 800-foot Newichawannock Canal into Horn Pond, then into the Salmon Falls River below Horn Pond.
The widest part of the lake is in New Hampshire. The lake narrows to the east in Maine, creating the First, Second and Third basins. Great East Lake is the largest of the Salmon Falls headwater lakes.
Great East Lake supports abundant wildlife, and 21 fish species including lake trout, rainbow trout, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, American eel, hornpout, white perch, black crappie and chain pickerel.
The Great East Lake watershed is located in Acton, Maine, and Wakefield, New Hampshire, and covers approximately 9,939 acres. Great East Lake is part of the Piscataqua River major drainage basin and the Salmon Falls River subdrainage basin. Great East Lake flows into Horn Pond which in turn starts the Salmon Falls River at its outflow. The Salmon Falls River then flows into the Piscataqua River and into the Great Bay estuary and the Gulf of Maine.
- Surface area (mi)
- 4.6
- Max depth (ft)
- 101.71
- Elevation (ft)
- 570.87
- Shoreline length (mi)
- 18.02
Ideal for
- Family friendly:
- Pet friendly:
- Romantic getaways:
Popular activities
- Boating
- Waterskiing
- Kayaking
- Canoeing
- Swimming
- Fishing
- Hiking
Islands
Amidst the tranquil waters of Maine, a serene beauty awaits on the enchanting islands that grace Great East Lake. These landforms, rich in history and natural splendor, serve as cherished retreats for both locals and travelers. With a history steeped in Native American lore and early settler tales, the islands offer glimpses of the past through remnants of ancient fishing camps and the iconic Carrigain Island’s historic boathouse, a marvel of rustic charm.
Each island possesses its own unique allure, featuring well-maintained hiking trails that wind through lush forests and lead to breathtaking lookouts, perfect for capturing that picture-perfect sunset. Birdwatchers will find their paradise here, as migratory birds often grace the skies.
Additionally, recreational opportunities abound; kayak across tranquil waters or explore hidden coves. With a perfect blend of adventure and serenity, these islands reveal Maine’s untouched charm, making them a must-visit for the discerning traveler.
Nearby amenities
For a delightful experience by the water, visitors will find numerous amenities available at Great East Lake. Various boating options are provided, including a well-equipped marina at Loon’s Nest which features a public dock, boat ramp, and rentals for pontoons and jet skis. Fuel stations are readily accessible for convenience. Explore local shops like Ricker’s General Store for grocery needs or bait supplies, and don’t miss the cozy vibe at O’Brien’s Café for a quick meal or coffee. Nearby dining options also include The Lake House, offering scenic views and a full menu. For overnight stays, consider the scenic campgrounds at Pine Springs or cozy cabins at Great East Lake Campground. Parking is ample, with designated RV spaces and day-use lots available. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate nearby hiking trails and designated fishing areas, while families can enjoy swimming beaches or the floating water park. Essential services such as restrooms and visitor information centers ensure a comfortable visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Great East Lake has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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Yes, swimming is allowed in Great East Lake. There are designated swimming areas, and some campsites even have swimming docks where diving is permitted.
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Great East Lake is a popular destination because of its natural beauty and abundant wildlife. It offers over 1700 acres of water and 12 miles of shoreline, supporting various water activities like boating, fishing, and swimming. The lake is also known for its cleanliness and rich ecosystem, including waterfowl, otters, and fish.
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In Great East Lake, the minimum length limit for lake trout (also known as togue) is 16 inches. For brook trout, the minimum length is not specified in this context, but generally, it is 6 inches in other New Hampshire waters. Lake trout must meet this specific length to be kept.
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There are no dog-friendly beaches on Great East Lake. The information available does not mention any dog-friendly beaches in this area. Instead, dog-friendly beaches are found in other locations such as Brevard County’s Canova Beach Park or Pensacola Beach’s dog parks.
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Great East Lake is near the towns of Wakefield, New Hampshire, and Acton, Maine. These towns share the lake, with Wakefield located in New Hampshire and Acton in Maine. The lake serves as the headwaters to the Salmon Falls River.