Hampton Ponds State Park

July 20, 2019 Sunny & Blazing Hot

This state park is consists mainly of a small beach on a pond.

The day we visited was sweltering and sunny, and the parking lot was nearly full. Several groups held large parties in the pavilions at the edges of the beach, and the smell of BBQ and mixture of music was strong in the air.

We changed and raced into the water, only to hear a whistle blow for a “safety check” just 30 seconds later. Our timing was unfortunate and we had to bake on the beach for about 20 minutes before we were allowed to return to the water. Our advice – try to time your visit to avoid the checks. If you’re not sure of the schedule…ask the ice cream trucks! They seem to known exactly and show up seconds later.

Although the beach had a golden color and was fine for sunbathing, the sand was somewhat coarse and a few other factors detracted from the experience. The swimming area was small and shallow, the water fairly warm and a bit murky, and there was a good deal of pond grass (as seen below).

The constant roar of jet skiers, waverunners, and motor boats zooming by also soured us on the experience.

Although the children enjoyed cooling off, we all agreed there are better state beaches to visit.

Water was too warm, lots of pond grass, and noisy motorboats really detract from the experience here.
Too much seaweed/pond grass (?). Noise from jet skis nearby was too annoying.
There was pondgrass and stuff in the water.
There was a lot of seaweed. The water was warm.