Crystal Lake - Gilmanton

Belknap County, New Hampshire

Crystal Lake is a 445-acre lake in Gilmanton, New Hampshire, surrounded by scenic mountains on the horizon. Fine lake homes line the shoreline of the freshwater, and there is a park at the south end of the lake.

Rochester and Concord are under 30 miles, making it easy to take a day trip to a large city.

It is 26 minutes from Lakes Region General Hospital and less than an hour from Portsmouth International Airport at Pease. There is a Hannaford Supermarket within 20 minutes.

Lake History

Early Native Americans referred to the lake and its feeding river as “Suncook.” European settlers later called the lake “Lougee’s Pond,” after the Lougee family that once lived on the west side of the lake.

In 1778, iron miners were attracted to the lake due to its surrounding iron content and a settlement was established there as a consequence.

On and Around the Water

Anglers on the lake can expect to reel in rainbow trout, rainbow smelt, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, chain pickerel, white perch, brown bullhead, yellow perch, and pumpkinseed.

Those who don’t mind the cold often venture out onto the frozen lake in the winter for ice fishing.

Boaters can access the park at Crystal Lake Park on the southern end of the lake.

Wildlife connoisseurs will enjoy spotting common loons, bald eagles, and great blue herons, as well as moose, black bears, otters, and beavers.

Explore Concord

Concord, the capital city of New Hampshire, has lots to offer residents of Crystal Lake.

The top attraction is the independently owned Red River Theatre. This theatre offers screenings of independent films as well as classic movies.

Those more interested in live performances should head to Capitol Center for the Arts. There they will find ballet, country, rock, and Broadway performances.

Another attraction is the Mcauliffe-Shepard Discovery Center, named after Christina Mcauliffe and Alan Shepard. This museum features interactive indoor and outdoor exhibits as well as a planetarium.

Explore Rochester

Rochester is the largest city in the seacoast region and the fourth-largest city in the state. There is a lot of rich history and a variety of activities to embark on in the city.

If you want to spend an afternoon outside, there are public and family-friendly parks and playgrounds. There are also hiking, walking, and biking trails along the Cocheco River.

Enjoy the great shopping and dining scenes with some entertainment for a perfect night downtown.

An Excellent Waterfront Location

If you’re looking for an amazing lake home and the classic lake experience, check out Crystal Lake. It just might be the location of your next lake home!