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 60 miles.

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, New Hampshire
⌖ 0.26 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Holderness, New Hampshire

Holderness, NH, lies along Squam Lake, offering quiet paddling, forest trails, and seasonal skiing. This rural town is a great base for fishing, hiking, and peaceful camping amid New Hampshire’s Lakes Region scenic nature.

Spring through Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for skiing
Explore Town
Ashland, New Hampshire
⌖ 3.37 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Ashland, New Hampshire

Ashland, NH, offers peaceful outdoor recreation with hiking, paddling, mountain biking, and winter sports near scenic lakes and forests. It’s a quiet spot for nature lovers wanting a low-key adventure in New England’s Lakes Region.

Late Spring through Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for snow sports
Explore Town
Plymouth, New Hampshire
⌖ 5.13 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Plymouth, New Hampshire

Plymouth, New Hampshire is an outdoor enthusiast’s haven offering hiking, paddling, mountain biking, and snow sports with a charming small-town feel near the White Mountain National Forest.

Late Spring through Fall for warm-weather adventures, Winter for snow sports
Explore Town
Campton, New Hampshire
⌖ 6.60 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Campton, New Hampshire

Campton, New Hampshire offers a peaceful outdoor escape with hiking, paddling, mountain biking, and winter skiing around the Pemigewasset River and White Mountain foothills.

Late Spring to Early Fall; Winter for skiing
Explore Town
Center Harbor, New Hampshire
⌖ 6.71 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Center Harbor, New Hampshire

Center Harbor is a tranquil lakeside town in New Hampshire's Lakes Region known for paddling, hiking, and fishing. It offers straightforward access to Squam and Winnipesaukee Lakes plus forest trails, making it an ideal base for outdoor adventures year-round.

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

Meredith, New Hampshire

Meredith, NH, is a welcoming lakeside town ideal for paddling, hiking, and mountain biking. Set on Lake Winnipesaukee, it offers easy access to summer water sports and winter trails, making it a versatile base for outdoor lovers year-round.

Late Spring through Fall
Explore 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.

Pick Your Boat — Five Days Afloat from Meredith
ADVEXPEDITION
Meredith, New Hampshire
Boat RentalADV Bookable

Pick Your Boat — Five Days Afloat from Meredith

A five-day boat rental operated from Y Landing Marina in Meredith; this guide lays out the essential logistics, hours, and booking cautions to prepare you for the outing.

Boat RentalPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip