Squam
Squam, New Hampshire Real Estate
Famous as the filming location for On Golden Pond, Squam Lake captures the unspoiled beauty of New Hampshire’s Lakes Region. Its calm waters, forested islands, and wildlife make it ideal for kayaking, fishing, and quiet reflection. The surrounding towns of Holderness and Center Harbor add a touch of local charm and convenience. Real estate on Squam Lake offers serene waterfront homes, private retreats, and classic cottages that embrace the area’s peaceful and timeless atmosphere.
FAQs About Squam Lake
Famous for its unspoiled beauty and featured in the classic film On Golden Pond, Squam Lake is one of New Hampshire’s most iconic and tranquil destinations. Stretching across the towns of Holderness and Sandwich, it offers crystal-clear waters, forested shores, and a peaceful escape surrounded by the White Mountains and the heart of the Lakes Region.
What makes Squam Lake a desirable place to live?
Squam Lake is known for its quiet elegance, pristine environment, and timeless New England charm. It’s perfect for those who value natural beauty, privacy, and a slower pace of life surrounded by mountains and water.
What types of homes are available around Squam Lake?
Homes around Squam Lake range from classic lake cottages and rustic cabins to luxurious waterfront estates. Many feature private docks, wooded lots, and panoramic lake and mountain views — ideal for year-round living or seasonal retreats.
Is Squam Lake a good area for real estate investment?
Yes — Squam Lake’s limited shoreline development and high demand for exclusive waterfront properties make it one of the most desirable and stable real estate markets in New Hampshire’s Lakes Region.
How far is Squam Lake from major cities or attractions?
Squam Lake is about 10 minutes from Holderness village, 20 minutes from Meredith, and around 2 hours from Boston. It’s close to local hiking trails, ski resorts, and other major Lakes Region attractions.
What is the lifestyle like around Squam Lake?
Life at Squam Lake is peaceful and nature-focused. Residents enjoy boating, kayaking, fishing, and exploring the quiet coves and islands. It’s a place where conservation and community coexist beautifully, offering a refined yet relaxed lifestyle.
With its crystal waters, mountain scenery, and sense of timeless tranquility, Squam Lake stands as one of New England’s most cherished lakefront destinations. Explore available homes and experience the unmatched serenity that makes Squam Lake truly special.
Overview for Squam Lake, NH
The lake spans about 6,791 acres, reaching a maximum depth of 99 feet — making it the second-largest lake entirely within New Hampshire. The name “Squam” comes from the Abenaki word Asquam, meaning “water.” The lake features numerous islands, a largely undeveloped shoreline, and was the setting for the film On Golden Pond.
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Average Individual Income
Schools near Squam Lake
Squam Lake’s surrounding towns (Holderness, Sandwich, Ashland, etc.) use a mix of local district schools and shared/cooperative SAU arrangements — families value small class sizes and strong community ties, plus access to natural-science and outdoor education linked to the lake environment.
primary schools
| Type |
School Name |
Rating (1–5) |
Website |
| Public |
Holderness Central School (PK–6, Holderness, NH) |
4.5/5 |
hcs.sau23.org |
| Public |
Squam Lake Elementary (New Hampton, NH, PK–6) |
4/5 |
sles.sau2.org |
| Private |
Holderness School (PK–12, Holderness, NH) |
5/5 |
holderness.org |
| Private |
Pine Grove Montessori School (Meredith/Wolfeboro, NH) |
4.5/5 |
pinegrovemontessori.org |
middle schools
| Type |
School Name |
Rating (1–5) |
Website |
| Public |
Inter-Lakes Middle Tier (Meredith, NH, Grades 5–8) |
4/5 |
ilmt.sau2.org |
| Public |
Holderness Central School Middle Program (Grades 6–8) |
4.5/5 |
hcs.sau23.org |
| Private |
Holderness School (Grades 6–8) |
5/5 |
holderness.org |
| Private |
Cornerstone Christian Academy (Wolfeboro, NH, Grades 6–8) |
5/5 |
cornerstoneabc.org |
high schools
| Type |
School Name |
Rating (1–5) |
Website |
| Public |
Inter-Lakes High School (Meredith, NH, Grades 9–12) |
4/5 |
ilh.sau2.org |
| Public |
Holderness School Upper Grades (9–12, Holderness, NH) |
5/5 |
holderness.org |
| Private |
Brewster Academy (Wolfeboro, NH, Grades 9–12) |
4.5/5 |
brewsteracademy.org |
| Private |
New Hampton School (New Hampton, NH, 9–12 Boarding/Day) |
5/5 |
newhampton.org |
Establishments in Squam, NH
Famous for its natural beauty and appearance in On Golden Pond, Squam Lake is a sanctuary of peace and wilderness. Its pristine waters, hiking trails, and small inns attract those seeking an authentic and tranquil Lakes Region experience.
| Establishment Name |
Type |
Rating |
Yelp Link |
| Squam Lake MarketPlace |
Marketplace / Café / Specialty Foods |
4.6/5 |
Yelp |
| Inn Kitchen + Bar |
Restaurant – American / Upscale Casual |
4.8/5 |
Yelp |
| Walter’s Basin Restaurant & Lounge |
Restaurant – Family / Lakeside |
4.2/5 |
Yelp |
| The Holderness Inn (Kirkwood Gardens) |
Accommodation / Historic Inn |
4.4/5 |
Yelp |
| Golden Pond Country Store |
Shopping – Country Store & Gifts |
4.8/5 |
Yelp |
| Little Red Schoolhouse |
Restaurant – Breakfast / Brunch |
4.6/5 |
Yelp |
| Peek A Bowl |
Restaurant – Bowling Alley / Pub-Style |
4.9/5 |
Yelp |
| Gusto Italian Café |
Restaurant – Italian Café |
4.8/5 |
Yelp |
| The Common Man Restaurant – Squam Lake |
Restaurant – American / Lakeside |
— |
Yelp |
| Squam Lakes Natural Science Center (Gift Shop & Café) |
Attraction / Gift Shop / Café |
— |
Yelp |
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