Sweet Simplicity

Around a flickering flame, four young boys lounge leisurely poking the inferno before them with sticks. Cheerily conversing, a few adventurous ones draw the smoldering sticks close to their faces. Baking in the coals, the evening’s meal of baked potatoes gradually cooks. When I remember scenes—like the one above—from my camping trips to White Lake campground in N.H., a small smile always accompanies the memory.

Peacefully nestled amongst the White Mountains, White Lake boasts something extraordinary: simplicity. Camping, swimming, hiking, or learning, White Lake brings family and friends closer together through pure unadulterated fun. Although amazing attractions with “breathtaking views” where “dreams come true” draw colossal crowds, the sweet simplicity of White Lake—far from tourist throngs and formidable fees—will leave in vacationers’ hearts and minds something time cannot erase: a smile.

Honorable Mention  2013 FTF TEEN TRAVEL WRITING SCHOLARSHIP

Camping
Happily walking around the serene White Lake, the four young boys explore around the little path. Reaching a sandy beach, the four hooligans hastily discard their shirts jumping into the chilly water. Below the four’s feet, the clean sand creates a welcome resting place. Playfully splashing, the group enjoys the cold waves.  Mentioning White Lake continuously has undoubtedly triggered many questions in your minds. In answer to your queries, I refer you to the New w Hampshire Parks and Recreation website that provides a short description of the campground, accompanied by several photographs. However, if you wish to reserve a campsite, you must go to Reserve America’s website for available dates.

Hiking
Doggedly, a family ascends the towering peak of Mt. Washington. Hiking for several hours, the members of the group—children, parents and grandparents—converse happily as they walk. At last, the family reaches their destination: a center at the top. Readily accepting the rest, the group enjoys the enchanting landscape. Finding a few snakes, the mother summons the children. With curiosity, the young boy peers at the serpents. Precisely an hour and a half from White Lake, the massive Mt. Washington provides a perfect daylong diversion. Boasting multiple trails, a cog railroad, and an automotive road, Mt. Washington offers enchanting adventures for every family.  For more information, visit Mt. Washington’s Observatory website.  If Mt. Washington appears intimidating, try Mt. Chocorua only twenty five minutes from White Lake.

Learning
Ruefully, a group of children churn butter in the old fashioned kitchen of the Remick Museum. Working hard, the little workers finally finish making the creamy spread. After eating butter and biscuits—stirred and cooked by the kids earlier—the rabble exits into glistening sunlight. Expertly, the tour guide explains the basic workings of a 1700’s farm as the tourists examine the premises. Lying thirteen minutes from White Lake campground, the Remick Museum presents an exciting educational adventure for a fun day. With multiple different tours and educational opportunities, the Remick Museum can entertain any family. Simply visit the Remick Museum website to prepare for an exhilarating escapade.

Smiling with each childhood memory, I can personally attest that White Lake and the surrounding attractions imprint on a person’s heart and mind. Whether camping, hiking, or learning, White Lake has enjoyable activities for everyone. When I picture the perfect pleasure of hanging out with family and friends, joy fills my heart. Sincerely, I encourage anyone to discover the magic of White Lake: sweet simplicity.