Boating in the Umbagog National Wildlife Refuge: What to Know

Boating is one of the greatest adventures, and where you boat has a lot to do with the overall experience you'll have. Some places are easier to get into than others, and you may face different regulations on certain waterways.

Understanding the rules when boating in a refuge, for example, is essential. Additionally, ensuring you have the right boating safety equipment for your adventure helps you enjoy your time to the fullest.

In New Hampshire, there's a prime spot for boating that sits within a refuge. Here's what you need to know about boating in Umbagog National Wildlife Refuge.

An Introduction to Umbagog National Wildlife Refuge

The Umbagog National Wildlife Refuge is located along the New Hampshire-Maine border. This area is known for its stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife.

The 7,000-acre Umbagog Lake is the focal point of the Refuge for boaters. The Refuge also offers access to the shoreline of over ten miles of the Magalloway and Androscoggin Rivers and all their backwaters.

This area provides excellent outdoor recreation opportunities and plenty of scenic exploration options. Boaters of all ages and skill levels can find a great place to explore the Refuge and learn about the local environment.

Boating in the Refuge

Many types of boating activities are allowed on Umbagog Lake, including kayaking, canoeing, and motorized boating. However, all boaters must respect the local wildlife and protect the natural environment.

This can be done by maintaining a quiet and respectful presence, especially in wildlife-sensitive areas. Motorized boats are limited to 10hp motors to preserve the tranquility of the environment. 

Know the New Hampshire Boating Regulations

Not only do boaters need to follow the rules of the Refuge, but they must also follow NH boating regulations.

These include: 

• Life jackets: All boats must carry personal flotation devices (PFDs) for everyone on board.
• Boating safety certificates: Operators born after 1989 must complete a boating safety course to operate a boat.
• Speed limits: Boat operators must keep within posted speed limits, particularly in areas marked for slow-speed zones.
• Alcohol: New Hampshire has strict laws on boating under the influence of alcohol. The legal blood alcohol limit for boat operators is 0.08%.

The Refuge may also restrict boating in certain areas or wildlife zones, especially during the spring and summer months (April through July), when many shorebirds and waterfowl have nests.

Who Can Use the Umbagog Lake Boat Launch?

The Umbagog Lake Boat Launch is a popular access point for motorized and non-motorized boats. It offers excellent amenities, including restrooms, parking, and accessibility features. 

You can launch motorized and non-motorized boats from this site but must follow any restrictions after launch. For example, you must stay a safe distance from shore to protect wildlife and not try to access the launch during seasonal closures.

The best times to launch are very early in the day before larger crowds arrive or later in the day when crowds have thinned and most people have already launched their boats. You can also launch more easily during weekdays when the lake isn't as busy. This is especially important during peak boating season.

Wildlife and Environmental Considerations

One of the most valuable things you can do while boating is to respect the local ecosystem. This is vital for nesting birds and other types of wildlife. Even kayaks and canoes can easily disturb birds along the shoreline, causing them stress and making them defensive.

Staying away from the shoreline, especially in marshy areas, helps protect these birds and their nests. 

Observe from a Distance

The Refuge provides many opportunities for wildlife observation and photography. As long as you maintain a safe distance from wildlife habitats, you can freely watch and photograph the wildlife you see throughout the Refuge.

Remember to leave no trace of your presence in the water, at the launches, or along the shoreline. By cleaning up after yourself, you protect the natural environment and help preserve it for future boating enthusiasts to enjoy. 

Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Boating Experience

Having an enjoyable boating experience is easier when you're careful and safety-oriented. 

Check the weather forecast before heading out to help protect yourself and your passengers from risk. You want to stay aware of water conditions and ensure your boat is adequately equipped with safety gear.

Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and other essentials for a comfortable day on the water, especially during the summer when the days can be hot. You don't want dehydration or sunburn to ruin your adventure. As a boater, you'll also want to respect other recreational users, such as kayakers and anglers, by maintaining a safe distance from them. 

Enjoy a Unique Opportunity to Experience Nature by Boat

Boating in the Umbagog National Wildlife Refuge is a unique opportunity to enjoy nature while following boating regulations and caring for the environment. By practicing responsible boating, you can promote the enjoyment of this beautiful, wild place for other boaters, explorers, and future generations.

Before heading out on the water for your day, make sure you have your boater education card! All boaters 16 years old and older need this card to boat legally in New Hampshire.

To get yours, take the online boater education course from ilearntoboat. It's a fun and fast way to learn about water safety and meet the state's requirements for safe and legal boat operation.

Get Your New Hampshire Boater Education Card!
Click to get started, pass the course and final exam, then hit the water.