Craighead Forest Park | Jonesboro

Information

Landmark: Craighead Forest Park
City: Jonesboro
Country: USA Arkansas
Continent: North America

Craighead Forest Park, Jonesboro, USA Arkansas, North America

Ellacoya State Park is a public recreation area located on the western shore of Lake Winnipesaukee in Gilford, New Hampshire. The park provides access to the lake for swimming, boating, and fishing.

Visual Characteristics

The park features a 2,000-foot sandy beach along the lake. Inland, the terrain consists of mixed deciduous and coniferous forest. The lake water is typically clear, with a sandy bottom extending into the swimming area.

Location & Access Logistics

Ellacoya State Park is situated at 174 Meadowbrook Lane, Gilford, NH 03249. It is approximately 10 miles east of the city center of Meredith and 20 miles north of Concord. Access is via Meadowbrook Lane, which connects to State Route 11. Ample parking is available within the park, with fees typically charged during the operational season. Public transportation options directly to the park are limited; visitors generally rely on private vehicles.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The land that now comprises Ellacoya State Park was historically part of a larger tract of undeveloped shoreline along Lake Winnipesaukee. It was acquired by the state and established as a park to preserve public access to the lake and provide recreational opportunities. The ecological origin is glacial, with the lake itself being a remnant of the last ice age, and the shoreline shaped by post-glacial erosion and deposition.

Key Highlights & Activities

Swimming is permitted at the designated beach area. Boating access is available via a boat launch. Fishing is permitted from the shore or from boats. Picnicking is facilitated by designated areas with tables and grills. Hiking trails are present within the wooded sections of the park.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available. Shade structures are present along the beach and in picnic areas. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available within the park. Food vendors are typically not present within the park itself, but are available in nearby towns.

Best Time to Visit

The best time for swimming and beach activities is during the summer months, from June to August, when water temperatures are most suitable. Mid-morning offers good lighting for photography of the lake and beach. For fishing, early morning and late afternoon are often most productive.

Facts & Legends

The park is named after Chief Ellacoya, a leader of the Winnipesaukee band of the Abenaki people. Local lore suggests that the lake holds secrets from its indigenous past, though specific verifiable legends tied directly to the park's current boundaries are scarce.