Lisa R
July 8, 2026
Fantastic venue, beautiful lake, lots of picnic tables, thank you!
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About Edward Macdowell Lake Day Use Facilities
Edward MacDowell Lake is situated in a quiet corner of the Monadnock Region of New Hampshire.
This day-use area lies just off State Route 101 on the shores of the picturesque lake named after the famous composer and concert pianist, Edward Alexander MacDowell.
Activities & Attractions
Nearby
Boating
Spring
Summer
Fall
Fishing
Year-round
Swimming
Summer
Year-round
Fishing
Nearby
Spring
Boating
Nearby
Summer
Boating
Nearby
Swimming
Nearby
Fall
Boating
Nearby
Seasonal information
2026
(Current year)
2026 Season availability
Current season
Upcoming seasons
Past seasons
Closed periods
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Currently closed
Campground Amenities
Water and Hygiene
- Potable Water
Missing information?
Reviews
13 reviews
Summary
Edward Macdowell Lake Day Use Facilities is a fantastic venue with a beautiful lake and ample picnic tables, making it ideal for gatherings. Visitors appreciate the cleanliness of the facilities, including grills and restrooms, along with the variety of activities available, such as swimming and nature trails. Many families have enjoyed positive experiences and look forward to returning for future events.
Based on guest feedback
4.5
Overall rating
Based on 13 reviews
5 stars
84.6% (11)
4 stars
0.0% (0)
3 stars
0.0% (0)
2 stars
15.4% (2)
1 star
0.0% (0)
Showing 13 reviews
Sort by: Newest First
laurie s
July 4, 2026
I want to thank the crew at McDowell Dam pavilion. When we arrived, we found a spotless facility, grill, and restrooms. It’s the perfect spot for a gathering. Beautiful view, plenty of parking and a great spot. Thank you!!
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Barbara E
June 27, 2026
We have had many family reunions at this facility it is beautiful. It offers lots of things to do. Swimming. Play ground. Horseshoes nature trails. We have Always had a great experience. . Can't wait to book next year's event. . Two thumbs. Way. Way up.
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Peter H
July 2, 2025
great location.
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Peter H
July 2, 2025
great location.
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Ronnie M
July 29, 2022
The pavillion was spotlessly clean. The two young rangers manning the office were extremely helpful and accommodating. They helped us solve a problem of our group's own making. Because of this, we had a wonderful camp cookout. Kudos to them.
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Ronnie M
July 29, 2022
The pavillion was spotlessly clean. The two young rangers manning the office were extremely helpful and accommodating. They helped us solve a problem of our group's own making. Because of this, we had a wonderful camp cookout. Kudos to them.
Helpful
Jessica B
June 27, 2022
The weather was very cold and windy not what we expected at all for end of June! The location was great-perfect for lots of parking and guests!
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Jessica B
June 27, 2022
The weather was very cold and windy not what we expected at all for end of June! The location was great-perfect for lots of parking and guests!
Helpful
Miles S
June 13, 2022
Excellent spot with plenty of parking.
Thanks again to the staff for giving us a personal welcome.
Much appreciated.
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Location & Directions for Edward Macdowell Lake Day Use Facilities
75 Wilder Street, Peterborough, NH 03458 United States
Elevation: 295 ft
Getting There
From Route 101 in Peterborough, take a right onto Union Street for 1/2-mile, then take a left onto Wilder Street and travel all the way to the end of the street.
Highway access
Edward Macdowell Lake Day Use Facilities is accessible via Route 101 in Peterborough.
Nearby Campgrounds
Nearby destinations
Last updated: October 7, 2026
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Explore Peterborough, NH
Population: 2,539
Nearby city: Nashua, NH
Approx. 28 mi away (straight-line distance)
Elevation: 722 ft
Peterborough, NH
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Managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers