Lakes around Nashua offer diverse natural landscapes and recreational opportunities within and near the city. Nashua, New Hampshire, features several notable ponds and a significant urban park with water access. The area includes various bodies of water, from smaller ponds to larger lakes just across the state line. These locations provide settings for outdoor activities and wildlife observation.
Last updated: May 15, 2026
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J. Harry Rich State Forest is a state-owned woodland just north of Groton. This is a beautiful woodland that has a network of wide-maintained trails and a selection of other trails for visitors to enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, and wildlife watching. The paved Nashua River Rail Trail borders the eastern side of the forest, and Pepperell Pond flanks the western side of it. The forest is teeming with all manners of wildlife, but in addition, it has many other quirky features; there is a charming bridge, a boat house, and then there are the glorious riverside views. There is plenty to occupy you in this forest.
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Naticook Lake is 66 acres with nearly two miles of shoreline. It is a beautiful tree lined lake and has Blueberry Island as its charming centerpiece. You will get glimpses of its beauty through its tree lined shore here.
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This loop trail — which wanders all through Horse Hill Nature Preserve before delivering you back to the parking area — is a nice, easy walk. Overall, it's a great place for a rainy day outing or relaxed ramble through the web of trails.
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Mill Pond is a fishable pond right off the Nashua River. It is dammed by the Mine Falls Dam, a small hydroelectric energy dam. Kayaks can be put in on a gravely shore, and hikers can border it on the south side via the Red Trail and the north side on the Mill Pond Trail. In the fall the trees change color and it's a peaceful area to enjoy.
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Great views of Naticook Lake as you pass by. The park is located in the Wasserman Conservation Area. There is a small island that is located within the lake.
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This park is perfect if you are looking for a getaway from the city. It is teeming with water and wildlife. The paths are easily accessible and the pavement is in very good condition.
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Visitors frequently enjoy Mill Pond, which is part of Mine Falls Park and offers fishing and trails. Another favorite is Oxbow Lake, also within Mine Falls Park, known for its wildlife and accessible paths. Just across the state line, Lake Mascuppic in Tyngsborough, MA, is a popular choice for active water sports.
Yes, several locations are great for families. Mine Falls Park, encompassing Mill Pond and Oxbow Lake, is very family-friendly with diverse activities. Naticook Lake in the Wasserman Conservation Area also offers beautiful views and is considered family-friendly. Roby Park in Nashua provides a family-friendly environment with views of a pond, playgrounds, and picnic areas.
The lakes and surrounding areas offer a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking on trails like the Mill Pond Trail or the Red Trail near Mill Pond. Cycling is popular on routes like the Naticook Lake loop. Mountain biking trails are also available, such as those in Yudicky Farm Trail System. For more detailed routes, explore the hiking, cycling, and MTB guides for Nashua.
Lake Mascuppic in Tyngsborough, MA, just south of Nashua, is very popular for swimming during the summer months. It's a vibrant destination for active lake experiences, including boating and water-skiing, and features a small public beach.
Mine Falls Park offers nearly 10 miles of trails, including easy walks around Mill Pond and Oxbow Lake, with well-maintained paths. The Loop Trail in Horse Hill Nature Preserve is also an easy walk suitable for a relaxed ramble. Lovewell Pond features a boardwalk traversing wetlands, offering a unique easy walking experience.
The lakes and ponds around Nashua are rich in natural beauty and wildlife. Mine Falls Park, with Mill Pond and Oxbow Lake, is teeming with water and wildlife, including diverse bird species and aquatic life. Lovewell Pond, a glacial kettle hole pond, is surrounded by a fen and provides habitat for various wildlife. J. Harry Rich State Forest, bordering Pepperell Pond, is known for its abundant wildlife.
Yes, Mine Falls Park in Nashua has historical significance. The Nashua River Canal and the Nashua Manufacturing Company Historic District, both within or adjacent to the park, are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The canal system itself is an important historical feature.
Yes, Oxbow Lake within Mine Falls Park is noted for its easily accessible paths and very good pavement condition, making it suitable for wheelchair users. The park's network of trails generally offers accessible sections.
The best time depends on your preferred activities. Summer is ideal for active water sports like swimming and boating, especially at Lake Mascuppic. Spring and fall offer beautiful scenery for hiking and walking, with fall foliage around Mill Pond being particularly scenic. In winter, Mine Falls Park is popular for cross-country skiing.
Mine Falls Park, which includes Mill Pond and Oxbow Lake, has several boat launches and parking areas. For Lake Mascuppic, there is a paved public boat ramp, though parking can be limited, especially on summer weekends. Many conservation areas like Lovewell Pond also provide designated parking.
Many trails in the Nashua area, including those in Mine Falls Park and conservation areas like Lovewell Pond, are generally dog-friendly. However, it's always recommended to check specific park regulations for leash requirements and any restricted areas before visiting.


Still not found your perfect lake around Nashua? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.