Spend a night on Moon Island, Bowman Island, or Chamberlain Reynolds Forest with Squam Lakes Association’s campsite rentals. Accessible by boat or trail, these spots offer a perfect blend of peaceful lakefront camping and outdoor adventure.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
12–24 hours
Fitness Level
Basic fitness required to carry gear on short hikes or paddle across water to campsites.
Wildlife
History
Squam Lakes Association was founded in 1966 to protect the water quality and natural habitats of Squam Lake and surrounding lands.
Conservation
The SLA actively manages campsites and lake usage to minimize human impact, promoting sustainable recreation and habitat preservation.
Squam Lakes Association
Spend a night on Moon Island, Bowman Island, or Chamberlain Reynolds Forest with Squam Lakes Association’s campsite rentals. Accessible by boat or trail, these spots offer a perfect blend of peaceful lakefront camping and outdoor adventure.
Squam Lakes Association (SLA) is a Holderness, New Hampshire organization that supports outdoor recreation and responsible use of Squam Lake. SLA manages designated campsites on Moon Island, Bowman Island, and Chamberlain Reynolds Memorial Forest and operates canoe and kayak rentals for visitors exploring the lake. Rentals and campsites are offered across a range of durations, from one-hour paddling trips to multi-day rentals and campsite stays lasting up to seven nights. Lifejackets and paddles are provided with rental reservations.
The association’s offerings include short paddles in Piper Cove, longer two-hour excursions, and multi-day kayak and canoe rentals ideal for campers who want to visit islands and coves or hike scenic trails. Campsites are accessible by boat or via scenic walks where trails permit. SLA’s services are designed to make paddling and camping on Squam Lake straightforward, with clear rental policies, equipment provision, and site management that supports visitor safety and natural resource protection.
Visitors choose Squam Lakes Association for access to a variety of paddling durations and island campsite options in a region known for scenic mountain views and protected waters. Information on reservations and site locations helps guests plan trips that match their experience level and schedule while promoting stewardship of Squam Lake’s natural and cultural resources.
Location
Holderness, NH
On Squam Lake in New Hampshire
Trips Offered
11
One-hour to seven-night options
Campsite Sites
Moon, Bowman, Chamberlain
Island and forest campsite locations
Rental Gear
Canoes & Kayaks
Lifejackets and paddles included
Choose a one-hour paddle or multi-day rental and secure a campsite on Moon, Bowman, or Chamberlain Reynolds Memorial Forest for an authentic Squam Lake getaway.
Reserve Canoes Early
Boat rentals fill quickly during peak season—book your canoe or kayak in advance to ensure water access.
Pack for Variable Weather
Even summer nights can get chilly—bring layers and a warm sleeping bag to stay comfortable after sundown.
Practice Leave No Trace
Use provided fire rings and pack out all trash to help preserve the delicate lake and forest environment.
Parking and Access
Plan your parking at SLA’s launch points early in the day to avoid crowds; some sites require a boat or a hike to reach.
Sleeping Bag (20°F rating)
Keeps you warm during cool spring and fall nights on the lake.
spring
Waterproof Dry Bag
Protects your gear while paddling across Squam Lakes.
summer
Headlamp or Flashlight
Essential for navigating campsites and trails after dark.
all
Bug Spray
Necessary to fend off mosquitoes and black flies during warmer months.
summer