Wellington State Beach — Attraction in Bristol

The online pitch for this place is far from what it is in reality in my opinion. The lake water is quite clear and the beach area was pretty clean. However, the photos and descriptions online mostly seem to promote this as a quiet, clean, pristine lake where you can come to the state park and kayak around, see bald eagles and enjoy nature, maybe take a walk on the nature trails around the park.

Here's the reality: a clean lake ruined by thousands of gas powered boats and jet skis speeding around. A beach area that is jam packed with families, little kids and teens with a roped off swimming area maybe 15 or 20 feet from the shore. We couldn't find the park store to even rent a kayak.

We decided to check out the nature trails and maybe we could find a secluded spot to swim that didn't feel like Hampton beach... we found an awesome sandy cove beach we thought was perfect about 1000ft down the trail, only to be greeted by a giant "NO SWIMMING" sign. Of course.

We also came across an island that is within swimming distance from the peninsula, again signs saying that it's off limits.

They also don't allow dogs in the park. Animal haters.

They dont want people to have any fun here. Maybe it's because of past incidents, but this isn't a place to go for people like me. This place is entirely built out as a boater destination and is not for those seeking a pristine lake where you can explore and feel free to enjoy the lake how you like.

We left without swimming or Kayaking. A complete waste...

I hate to give Wellington 5 stars...because I don't want anyone to go here. This is my favorite Lake in NH and my favorite park. You can enjoy clean fresh water, sun or shade, grille, swing/slide, go for a hike, relax your mind with the view, or launch a kayak or other boat here. Off-season no lifeguards or grille/concession stand. This is a "you take it in you take it out park" - on crowded weekends some visitors don't quite understand what that means. Of particular issue can be the changing room and diapers/swimmies - park needs to find a solution for this, the plastic bags handed out when people pay to enter isn't cutting it. beach is narrow - so again, when crowded, some visitors lake beach etiquette: no running by people seated, walk around towels/blankets, don't splash other guests, also this is a no dog beach - which doesn't mean you can leave your dog in your car....All in all, you can make a great day of it here at...

The beach is the cleanest beach around within an hour of Tilton. The water is clear, and not slimy or murky. The sand and beach itself is safe as I have never found glass, needles or other sharp objects that do not belong where families enjoy taking their families. There are bathrooms available during state beach hours, fire pits for cooking food, picnic tables , lots of shade but also lots of sun! Wellington state beach is perfect for small family/ friend gatherings, enjoying scenery, observing wildlife and the best place to swim! ...