Reader:  Our family will be visiting Lincoln in July. Are there any lakes nearby for swimming?

Lisa: There aren't really any large lakes in the Lincoln area (that I can think of off the top of my head), but there are plenty of swimming holes.  Echo Lake (http://www.newhampshire.com/state-parks/echo-lake-state-park.aspx) is in nearby Franconia Notch.  However, you are going to be near some of the best natural watering holes in the state, all along the Kancamagus Highway.  There are lots of natural kid-friendly "waterslides" and pools of water.  Look for people parking alongside Route 112.  Usually that will lead you to the best spots.

Also, there are many waterfalls in the region.  Here's a list: http://www.newhampshire.com/outdoors/nh-waterfalls-white-mountain.aspx.  You'll often find watering holes beneath or near the waterfalls.