Crystal Lake

Crystal Lake is a 441-acre (1.8 sq km) water body located in Belknap County in the Lakes Region of central New Hampshire, United States, in the town of Gilmanton. Crystal Lake is the origin of the Suncook River watershed. Water flows into Crystal Lake from the Belknap Range through Manning and Sunset lakes to the north and into Crystal Lake via Wood Bridge Brook and Covered Bridge Brook respectively. Water flows out of a dam from the southern end of Crystal Lake via the Suncook Lakes and Suncook River to the Merrimack River. Shoreline development along Crystal Lake consists primarily of summer cottages, with a few year-round residents. Belknap Mountain and Mount Major can be seen from the shoreline.

Activities:
There is a public boat launch, park and beach towards the southern end of the lake. Yearly festivals and fireworks occur during the Fourth of July and Labor Day holidays in the park on the lake. Motorized water vessels are permitted. Fishing is common year round. Water skiing, kayaking, sailing and Jet Skiing are common in the summer. Ice fishing is common during the winter.

Wildlife:
Crystal Lake is a nesting site for common loons and is a good place to see them in breeding plumage during the summer months. Bald eagles and great blue herons are also known to visit the lake. Moose and black bear have been sighted near the shoreline.