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Squam Lakes Natural Science Center wilderness guide
Nature Center · NH

Squam Lakes Natural Science Center

Squam Lakes Natural Science Center in New Hampshire is renowned for blending outdoor education with wildlife exhibits, offering unique chances to learn about the natural world up close.

Nature Center2002+ Trails

Designation

Nature Center

Total Wilderness Area

200

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Squam Lakes Natural Science Center

Squam Lakes Natural Science Center in New Hampshire is renowned for blending outdoor education with wildlife exhibits, offering unique chances to learn about the natural world up close.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Squam Lakes Natural Science Center is located in Holderness, New Hampshire, and provides a dynamic environment that encourages outdoor learning about nature and wildlife. The center encompasses a variety of ecosystems through which trails wind, allowing visitors to explore New England's flora and fauna. In particular, the center focuses on the region's wildlife and natural habitats, with well-designed exhibits that blend into the scenic landscape. Established in 1966, the center provides educational programs, wildlife exhibits, and hiking trails that offer engaging learning opportunities about local ecology and conservation efforts. The live animal exhibits include native species such as black bears, river otters, owls, and bobcats, making it a distinctive destination for family learning and wildlife viewing. The tranquil setting near Squam Lake adds to its charm, making it both an educational hub and a peaceful retreat in nature.

Field Guide · Nature Center
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Squam Lakes Natural Science Center

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Discover Chamberlain Reynolds Memorial Forest★ 5.5⌖ 4 miHiking
Chamberlain Reynolds Memorial Forest

Discover Chamberlain Reynolds Memorial Forest

Explore the scenic trails of Chamberlain Reynolds Memorial Forest near Center Harbor, NH. Perfect for easy hiking and canoeing, enjoy serene lake views and diverse wildlife. Ideal for families, especially in spring and fall.

Winter Activities at Notchview in The Berkshires★ 7.2⌖ 14 miCross-Country Skiing
The Berkshires

Winter Activities at Notchview in The Berkshires

Explore the winter charm of Notchview in Windsor, Massachusetts, with over 25 km of trails for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and winter hiking. Open to all skill levels, it's ideal for a peaceful family-friendly winter adventure.

Cross-Country SkiingView Details→
Scenic Splendor of Kancamagus Highway★ 8.5⌖ 21 miScenic Driving
Kancamagus Highway

Scenic Splendor of Kancamagus Highway

Experience the scenic splendor of the 34.5-mile Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire. Known for its stunning autumn foliage, it offers opportunities for hiking, photography, and bird watching. Best visited in fall for vibrant colors and peaceful forest views.

Scenic DrivingView Details→
Thrills and Chills: Alpine Adventures in Lincoln★ 7.5⌖ 21 miOff-Roading
Alpine Adventures

Thrills and Chills: Alpine Adventures in Lincoln

Explore Alpine Adventures in Lincoln, NH. With thrilling off-road safaris and exhilarating zipline tours, this moderate-level destination is a treat for adventure seekers year-round. Enjoy breathtaking views of the White Mountains and experience the excitement of New Hampshire's wilderness.

Off-RoadingView Details→
Discover Mount Chocorua, New Hampshire★ 7.8⌖ 22 miHiking
Mount Chocorua

Discover Mount Chocorua, New Hampshire

Explore Mount Chocorua via the 7.6-mile Champney Falls Trail, a moderately challenging route near Conway, NH. Enjoy panoramic views and cascading waterfalls along the way. Ideal for hiking and snowshoeing, this spot is bustling in summer and offers picturesque scenery year-round.

Enchanting Waters of New Hampshire★ 8.5⌖ 22 miBoating
Lake Winnipesaukee

Enchanting Waters of New Hampshire

Visit Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire's largest lake, renowned for boating and fishing. Accessible from Laconia, it's a family-friendly spot best visited in spring and fall. Enjoy scenic beauty, abundant wildlife, and various outdoor activities.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ The Raptor Exhibit showcases birds of prey in a naturalistic setting.✦ The Black Bear Exhibit provides a close-up view of this native species.✦ Live animal programs offer insight into New England wildlife.✦ The interactive Water Matters Pavilion highlights regional aquatic ecosystems.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Squam Lakes Natural Science Center

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Squam Lakes Natural Science Center
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Squam Lakes Natural Science Center
Park Recreation

Educational Programs

Available in Squam Lakes Natural Science Center
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Squam Lakes Natural Science Center
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Squam Lakes Natural Science Center.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Admission tickets required.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Squam Lakes Natural Science Center

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Holderness
⌖ 0.26 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Holderness, New Hampshire

A peaceful Lakes Region town offering access to forests, lakes, and mountains for year-round outdoor recreation.

Spring through Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for skiingExplore Town
Ashland
⌖ 3.37 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Ashland, New Hampshire

A quiet New England town offering access to mixed forest trails, lakes, and seasonal outdoor activities for a low-key nature experience.

Late Spring through Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for snow sportsExplore Town
Plymouth
⌖ 5.13 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Plymouth, New Hampshire

A vibrant gateway to the White Mountains offering year-round outdoor thrills from rugged hiking and paddling to winter skiing and snowshoeing with a welcoming small-town charm.

Late Spring through Fall for warm-weather adventures, Winter for snow sportsExplore Town
Campton
⌖ 6.60 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Campton, New Hampshire

A quiet, nature-rich town offering rugged hiking, forested river valleys, and classic New England outdoor pursuits amid the White Mountains’ southern edges.

Late Spring to Early Fall; Winter for skiingExplore Town
Center Harbor
⌖ 6.71 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Center Harbor, New Hampshire

A peaceful lakeside town offering a perfect gateway to outdoor water sports, hiking, and seasonal adventures in the Lakes Region of New Hampshire.

Late Spring to Early Fall (for water activities), Winter (for skiing and snow sports)Explore Town
Meredith
⌖ 7.00 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Meredith, New Hampshire

A charming lakeside town that offers a balanced mix of water-based adventures and scenic trails with a welcoming small-town atmosphere.

Late Spring through FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Squam Lakes Natural Science Center

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.