Canoe camping new england

A wonderful adventure! Canoe camping in New England offers a unique and immersive experience amidst the region's stunning natural beauty. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you plan your trip:

Best Places to Canoe Camp in New England:

  1. Maine:
    • Allagash Wilderness Waterway: A 92-mile-long corridor of lakes, rivers, and forests.
    • Kennebec River: Flowing through the heart of Maine, with numerous campsites and scenic views.
    • Belgrade Lakes: A chain of lakes and ponds perfect for canoeing and camping.
  2. New Hampshire:
    • Lake Winnipesaukee: The largest lake in New Hampshire, with many campsites and scenic views.
    • Squam Lake: A picturesque lake with numerous campsites and opportunities for wildlife viewing.
    • Androscoggin River: A scenic river with rapids and calm stretches, perfect for canoeing and camping.
  3. Vermont:
    • Lake Champlain: A large lake with many campsites and opportunities for boating and fishing.
    • Ottauquechee River: A scenic river with rapids and calm stretches, perfect for canoeing and camping.
    • Green Mountain National Forest: Offers many campsites and opportunities for hiking and exploring.
  4. Massachusetts:
    • Quabbin Reservoir: A large lake with many campsites and opportunities for boating and fishing.
    • Connecticut River: A scenic river with rapids and calm stretches, perfect for canoeing and camping.
  5. Connecticut:
    • Candlewood Lake: A large lake with many campsites and opportunities for boating and fishing.
    • Farmington River: A scenic river with rapids and calm stretches, perfect for canoeing and camping.

Tips and Essentials:

  1. Permits and Regulations: Check with the local authorities or park rangers for any permits or regulations required for canoe camping in your chosen location.
  2. Gear and Equipment: Bring a sturdy canoe, camping gear, food, water, and personal safety equipment (e.g., life jacket, first aid kit).
  3. Weather and Conditions: Be prepared for changing weather conditions, including rain, wind, and temperature fluctuations.
  4. Camping and Safety: Choose campsites with designated areas for camping, and follow Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the environment.
  5. Wildlife and Insects: Be aware of local wildlife, such as bears, moose, and snakes, and take necessary precautions to avoid encounters. Also, be prepared for mosquitoes and other insects.
  6. Navigation and Maps: Bring a detailed map of the area and a compass or GPS device to navigate the waterways.
  7. Food and Water: Bring enough non-perishable food and water for your trip, and consider bringing a water filter or purification tablets as well.
  8. Communication: Bring a cell phone or satellite phone, and consider bringing a personal locator beacon (PLB) or satellite messenger in case of emergencies.

Recommended Itineraries:

  1. Maine's Allagash Wilderness Waterway: 5-7 days, 92 miles
    • Start at the northern end of the waterway and paddle south, camping at designated sites along the way.
  2. New Hampshire's Lake Winnipesaukee: 3-5 days, 20-30 miles
    • Paddle around the lake, camping at designated sites or on secluded islands.
  3. Vermont's Lake Champlain: 3-5 days, 20-30 miles
    • Paddle around the lake, camping at designated sites or on secluded islands.

Remember to always check the weather forecast and water levels before embarking on your trip, and to follow all safety guidelines and regulations. Happy canoe camping in New England!