Over eight miles long, with 28 miles of winding coastline, the lake provides hours of relaxing fun for swimmers, boaters and fishermen alike. The lake can be accessed at a number of points, among them, Wards Cove, Castle Hill picnic area, and Mountain Mills. To get to Wards Cove from Wilmington, take Route 100 south. About one mile past the junctions of Routes 100 and 9 you will see a sign on the right for Flames Stables. Turn right onto the dirt road and follow it to the lake.
Picnic tables are available as well as a roped off swimming area.
Wards Cove is popular among local sailing enthusiasts including members of the Windham Sailing Club who moor their sailboats there. For Castle Hill and Mountain Mills access, head to downtown Wilmington. Continue up Castle Hill and turn right on Fairview Avenue, following the signs to the boat launch. Continue on until the pavement changes to a dirt road. Continue on to the end of the road for the Mountain Mills access area.