We've received some questions recently about the public access areas at Chocorua Lake. Here's an update:
Tamworth Residents Area:
The Tamworth Residents Area is open. The parking area is on the northeastern shore of Chocorua Lake, off of Rt. 16. Ninety feet of beach is available for use by Tamworth property owners. Lake access and swimming areas north of the Tamworth Residents Area are also open. These are accessible from the Tamworth Residents Area.
The new “rock garden” drainage area near the shore prevents road runoff from reaching the lake. Sediment and phosphorus in road runoff can lead to cyanobacteria blooms.
The new metal chain at the Tamworth Residents Area prevents the launch of motorboats. Motorboats and electric motors are prohibited by NH State RSA 270:83. Why did the state pass this law? Boat trailers and motorboat propellers are the main way invasive aquatic species are spread from one water body to another.
This chain is removed in the winter to allow lake access for ice fishing.
Parking at the Tamworth Residents Area requires a Tamworth Transfer Station sticker.
Public access areas:
The Island public access area is open. The parking area is on the eastern shore, off of Rt. 16. There is a dedicated kayak/canoe drop-off area. The Island has close to 4/10 of a mile of accessible shoreline for swimming, boating, and recreation.
The Grove public access area is open. The parking area is next to the Narrows Bridge at the southern end of Chocorua Lake on Chocorua Lake Road. There is a dedicated kayak/canoe drop-off area.
Parking at the Island and the Grove is open to all. Parking on the access road that runs from the Island parking area back to Rt. 16 is for Tamworth Residents Only.
Shoreline Restoration Area:
The Shoreline Restoration area is closed until spring 2026. This area runs from the Island parking lot north to the Tamworth Residents Area parking.
Last fall and this spring, CLC planted hundreds of new plants, shrubs, and trees to mitigate erosion caused by heavy use and rainstorms. These plantings will help prevent further erosion and protect lake water quality and public access into the future.
These new plantings take time to become established enough to withstand foot traffic. We appreciate everyone's patience and flexibility while these plants settle in.
Next spring, the shoreline from the Tamworth Residents Area to the Island will reopen. This will create additional beach access for town residents and other visitors.
You can learn more about this project HERE.
Banner image: Temporary fencing at the Tamworth Residents Area. Photo: Galen Kilbride