Connecticut River Recreation
A 60-foot dock, on-site river access, and miles of paddling — right from your campsite.
The Connecticut River is the longest river in New England, stretching 410 miles from the Canadian border to Long Island Sound. At Lancaster, the river flows wide and calm, creating ideal conditions for kayaking, canoeing, fishing, and swimming. Riverside Camping & RV Resort sits directly on the riverbank with a 60-foot dock that provides immediate water access — no vehicle loading or offsite launches required.
Kayaking and Canoeing
The section of the Connecticut River near Lancaster offers flatwater paddling suitable for beginners and families. The current is gentle enough for upstream paddling in most conditions, and the river width provides ample room to explore. Popular routes include paddling south toward the confluence with the Israel River or heading north toward the Guildhall, Vermont border. Guests can launch directly from Riverside's dock, eliminating the need for separate boat launches or shuttle services.
Fishing
The Connecticut River in the Lancaster area supports populations of smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, rainbow trout, brown trout, and various panfish species. The river's deeper pools and undercut banks near Riverside are productive spots for bass fishing, while trout tend to concentrate near the cooler tributaries that feed into the main channel. A valid New Hampshire fishing license is required for anglers 16 and older. The Israel River, which joins the Connecticut near Lancaster, adds another productive fishing destination within a short drive.
Swimming
The Connecticut River at Riverside features a gradual entry with a sandy and gravel bottom, making it a comfortable spot for wading and swimming during the summer months. Water temperatures typically reach swimmable levels by late June and remain pleasant through August. The calm current in this section of the river makes it suitable for families, though supervision of children near any natural waterway is always recommended.
The 60-Foot Dock
Riverside's dock is the centerpiece of the resort's river experience. Guests use it for launching kayaks and canoes, casting a fishing line, or simply sitting with a morning coffee and watching the river flow past. The dock is available to all registered guests throughout their stay. Whether you bring your own watercraft or simply want to dangle your feet in the water, the dock connects the campground to one of New England's great rivers.