When you camp on Ossipee Lake, you’re sure to experience the beauty of the landscape around you and you’ll also get to know the local wildlife. From huge pine trees to beavers and bullfrogs, keep reading to find out about some of the wildlife you’ll see during your next trip to Ossipee Lake.

Ossipee Lake History

Our beloved Ossipee Lake was formed around 2.58 million - 11,700 years ago due to glacier erosion. Due to its long history, the local wildlife has had plenty of time to make its home in this scenic and mountainous area. Ossipee Lake is surrounded by the Ossipee Mountain Range, which contributes greatly to the type of animals and landscaping found here.

Mammals 

There are at least 15 types of species occurring in New Hampshire, according to the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department. At our Ossipee Lake campground, we have spotted black bears, white-tailed deer, moose, beavers, and more. When campers book a stay at Westward Shores, there is a high chance that they will get the chance to spot some of these local mammals.

Reptiles

The population of reptiles in New Hampshire includes 7 turtle species and 11 snake species, with the Timber Rattlesnake being the only venomous species. With so many bodies of water nearby, Westward Shores hosts several (if not all) of these turtle species right on Ossipee Lake!

Amphibians

Similarly, many amphibious species have found their home at Ossipee Lake. This includes 11 types of salamanders, 8 frogs, 2 toads, and other slippery critters. These critters enjoy spending their time in streams, under rotting logs, and near a large body of water, which makes Ossipee Lake their ideal habitat. If you want to see lots of frogs and salamanders, then the best time to look for them while Ossipee Lake camping is after a nice rain.

Birds

With over 27 different large bird species and hundreds of others, Ossipee Lake might be the best place to bring your friends, your binoculars, and enjoy some unique birding opportunities! This is your chance to spot species such as an American Kestrel, Peregrine Falcon, Loons, Golden Eagle, and other magnificent birds.

Plant Life

With the high elevations of the nearby Ossipee Mountain Range, there is a diverse span of plant life populating Ossipee Lake and its shores. Discover tall pines, beautiful flowering plants, and unique foliage in the spring, summer, and fall - each season offering their own distinctive landscape around Ossipee Lake.

No matter what season you visit Ossipee Lake, you’ll be sure to spot some incredible wildlife and unique plant life in the spring, summer, and fall. Challenge your family and friends to see how many different plant and animal species you can find in and around the lake and be sure to book your stay at Westward Shores, one of the top-rated Lake Ossipee campgrounds, today!