Vermont State Parks Northwest Area
North Hero State Park
3803 Lakeview Drive North Hero, Vermont 05474
In-season information: 802-372-8727
Season: Mid-May to September (Labor Day)
The 399-acre park was purchased in 1963. Nearly one-third of that land lies below 100 feet elevation. The forest type in these floodplain areas is uncommon in Vermont, found only around Lake Champlain. The thick woods around the campground, and the fact that much of the property was farmed and pastured before becoming a park, have led to conditions favorable for wildlife.There are 99 wooded tent/trailer sites and 18 lean-tos that are arranged in three camp loops. Each loop has a rest room providing modern plumbing and hot showers. There is a sanitary dump station for RVs, but no hookups. Most sites are large enough to accommodate self-contained RVs. There are lakeside picnic grounds, a nongraded swimming beach, boat rentals, and a boat launch. Group camping is accommodated.
Area Attractions: The sand beach at Knight Point State Park (10 miles) is free to registered campers. The Hyde Log Cabin in Grand Isle is the oldest in the United States. St. Anne’s Shrine in Isle LaMotte is the site of a 1665 French settlement. The Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge in Swanton has a visitor center and interpretive trails. Lake Champlain ferries are often ridden just for the ride. The Grand Isle State Fish Culture Station, near the LCT ferry dock in Grand Isle, is a state-of-the-art hatchery with the visitor center open daily.
Directions: From Alburg: Go 6 mi SW on U.S. 2, then 3 mi NE on Town Road
Alburg Dunes State Park
151 Coon Point Road Alburg, VT 05440
In Season Information: 802-796-4170
Season: Mid-May to September (Labor Day)
This beach is amongst the longest beaches on Lake Champlain. Facilities and Management – Management strategies at Alburg Dunes work to balance protection and preservation of the park’s unique natural features while providing outdoor recreation opportunity and access to Lake Champlain. Camping is not permitted. Day use hours are from 10 a.m. to sunset. There is no public drinking water supply at Alburg Dunes, and fires are allowed only in picnic grills in the picnic area. Sanitary facilities, and the picnic and parking areas, are at the west end of the beach. The “beach road” (closed to motor vehicles) is a bicycle and pedestrian path between the dunes and wetland. A recommended walk, a mile and a quarter long, is to follow either the beach or “beach road” to the east end, and return the opposite way.
Directions:From US Rt. 2 in South Alburg, take Rt. 129 West one mile. Take left on Coon Point Rd and go about 1 1/2 miles to park entrance.
Kill Kare State Park
c/o Burton Island State Park Box 123, St. Albans Bay, Vermont 05481
In Season Information: 802-524-6021
Season: Mid-May to September (Labor Day)
Call 800-252-2363 for pre-season shelter reservations.
Located on the southwestern tip of St. Albans Point, a three-mile peninsula which defines St. Albans Bay, Kill Kare is surrounded on three sides by the sparkling water of Lake Champlain. Picnic tables and cooking grills are located throughout the park in open or shaded lawn areas. The 26′ x 40′ open-air shelter has group-sized cooking grills, available electricity, and may be reserved for group functions. The south-facing swimming area has a mostly sandy bottom. The shallower northwest shore is good for wading. There are no lifeguards. The public boat launching ramp gets your boat quickly into deep water. If you haven’t got a boat, rowboats may be rented, or you can ride the Burton Island ferry.
Directions: From St. Albans Bay: Go W 4-1/2 mi on Vt. 36, then 3-1/2 mi on Town Road.
Knight Point State Park
44 Knight Point Rd North Hero, Vermont 05474
In Season Information: 802-372-8389
Season: Mid-May to September (Labor Day)
Call 800-252-2363 for pre-season reservatons.
Expansive lawns dominate the center of this 54-acre day use park. The lawn becomes meadow to the west of the developed area, where the forest along the lakeside is a substantial natural feature. This facility includes a sandy beach, swimming, boat rentals, shaded or open picnic grounds with cooking grills. The 20′ x 40′ open-air shelter may be reserved for group functions.
Directions: From North Hero Village: 3 mi S on U.S. 2, on Lake Champlain.
Grand Isle State Park
36 East Shore South – Grand Isle, Vermont 05458
In-season information: 802-372-4300
Season: Mid-May to October 15
Grand Isle State Park is located on, and takes its name from, the largest island in Lake Champlain. The Grand Isle, about fourteen miles long by three miles wide, is also known as South Hero.There are 120 tent/trailer sites, 36 lean-to sites, and one cabin site. Rest rooms have running water and hot showers. There is a trailer sanitary station. Fifty percent of the sites are large enough to accommodate self-contained RVs. Lakeshore areas permit water access for swimming and shore fishing. There are boat launching ramps and rowboats for rent through the park office. There is sand-court volleyball, horseshoes, a play area, fitness trail, and a nature walk, all within the park. Campers are also allowed free entry to the sand beach at Knight Point State Park seven miles north.
Area Attractions: Shelburne Museum, Shelburne; St. Anne’s Shrine, Isle LaMotte; Hyde Log Cabin (nation’s oldest), Grand Isle State Fish Hatchery, and Lake Champlain Ferries, Grand Isle; Knight Point State Park, North Hero; Sand Bar State Park, Milton.
Directions: From Grand Isle: Go 1 m S on U.S. 2.
Underhill State Park
PO Box 249 Underhill Center, Vermont 05490
In-season information: 802-899-3022
Season: Late May to 4th weekend of October
Underhill is within Vermont’s 34,000-acre Mt. Mansfield State Forest. On the headwaters of the Brown’s River, at about 2,000 feet elevation, the park lies on the west slope of 4,300 feet Mt. Mansfield, the state’s highest peak. Just over the summit ridge is the Stowe ski area, one of North America’s original ski resorts. There are four trails to the summit ridge of Mt. Mansfield.
Area Attractions: Smuggler’s Notch Ski Area with a summer water slide; Smuggler’s Notch pass; the Mt. Mansfield Ski Area with its alpine slide, gondola, and auto toll road to the summit ridge. There is also the village of Stowe, Burlington and Lake Champlain.
Directions: From Essex Jct.: Go 9 mi E on Vt. 15, 4 mi E on paved Town Rd, 4 mi E on gravel Town Rd. (steep entrance, no trailers).
Lake Carmi State Park
460 Marsh Farm Rd. Enosburg Falls, Vermont 05450
In-season information: 802-933-8383
Season: Mid-May to September (Labor Day)
Lake Carmi, with a 1375-acre surface area, is the fourth largest natural lake entirely within Vermont. It is 7.5 miles around, averages about 20 feet deep, and is 33 feet at the deepest point. The state park includes more than two miles of lake frontage on the south and east shore of Lake Carmi. There are 140 tent/trailer sites, 35 lean-to sites, and 2 cabins that make this the state’s largest campground. Rest rooms have running water and hot showers($). There is a trailer dump station but no hookups. Most sites are large enough to accommodate self-contained RVs. There are swimming beaches in both camp areas. There is also a day use beach with concession area, rest rooms, and rental boats.
Area Attractions: Franklin Town Museum, 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. Sundays; Franklin County Historical Society, St. Albans; Jay Peak Ski Area; Smugglers’ Notch and Stowe ski areas (gondola and alpine slide); Missisquoi National Wildlife Rufuge, Swanton; Granby Zoo, Granby, Quebec.
Directions: From Enosburg Falls: Go 3 mi W on Hwy 105, then 3 mi N on Vt. 236.
Knight Island State Park
c/o Burton Island State Park Box 123, St. Albans Bay, Vermont 05481
In-season information: 802-524-6353
Season: Mid-May to September (Labor Day)
The 185-acre island is a mile long and nearly a half mile wide. The park includes all but 10+ acres of private land on the island’s southern tip. When on Knight Island, please respect the rights of the park neighbor and keep off the southern end. Ferry Service: Call Burton Island State Park (802) 524-6353 for information. Camping is by permit only on designated sites. A permit may be obtained at the caretaker’s residence and is necessary before setting up. Reservations (2-night minimum) are handled through Burton Island State Park. Maximum eight (8) persons per site; fourteen (14) night maximum stay. There are no sanitary facilities or potable water. Fires are permitted in designated fire rings.
Directions: Knight Island is located in northern Lake Champlain and can be reached only by boat. Ferry service varies according to season and day of the week. Contact Burton Island for ferry information.
Woods Island State Park
c/o Burton Island State Park
Box 123 St. Albans Bay, Vermont 05481
In-season information: 802-524-6353
Season: Mid-May to September (Labor Day)
A mile long by a quarter-mile wide, the 125-acre island is unique as habitat for a rich variety of plant life including many species rare or threatened in Vermont. The Vermont Division of State Parks intends to preserve the primitive character of the island and asks your cooperation in observing its guidelines for island use. Ferry service: There is none, island visitors must make their own arrangements. Camping: By permit only on designated sites. Reservations (2-night minimum) are handled through Burton Island State Park. Maximum eight (8) persons per site. Sites numbered 1 – 5 on posts or leanto names are visible from the island trail and from the water offshore. Setting up on a site prior to getting a permit is not permitted. There are no sanitary facilities or potable water on the island. Fires are permitted in designated fire rings.
Directions: Woods Island is located a short distance from Burton Island. No ferry service is scheduled.
Burton Island State Park
Box 123, St. Albans Bay,Vermont 05481
In-season information: 802-524-6353
Season: Mid-May to September (Labor Day)
Burton Island is a 253-acre island off the southwestern tip of St. Albans Point in Lake Champlain’s “inland sea.” Support facilities at Kill Kare include parking space, a boat ramp, and a breakwater to protect the dock for the state ferry, which carries non-boating visitors to the island. There are 17 tent sites and 26 lean-to sites plus 15 boat moorings and a 100-slip marina with dockside electricity, fuel service, and a marine holding-tank pumpout facility. This, with ferry service to the island (no vehicles) from Kill Kare, makes Burton Island one of the most unique parks in Vermont. Rest rooms have running water and hot showers. There are 3 miles of shoreline, hiking trails, a nature center/museum, park store and food service, rowboat and canoe rentals, and places to swim and picnic.
Directions: From St. Albans Bay: Go 3-1/2 mi SW on Town Road, Lake Road and Point Road to Kill Kare State Park. Passenger Ferry to Burton Island which is accessible only by boat; no vehicles. Ferry runs 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Sand Bar State Park
1215 US Rt 2 Milton, Vermont 05468
In Season Information: 802-893-2825
Season: Mid-May to September (Labor Day)
Sand Bar State Park takes its name from a natural sandbar between South Hero Island in Grand Isle County and the town of Milton on the Vermont mainland. The park is on the mainland, or eastern end, of that sandbar. Today at Sand Bar, the smooth, sandy lake bottom remains shallow well out from shore, making this an ideal swimming spot for children. That, and the uninterrupted length of sandy beach, very high quality water in this section of the lake, and well-kept facilities in an attractive setting combine to make Sand Bar the most visited day park in the state. Day use only. Two thousand foot (2000′) sand beach, swimming, boat and sailboard rentals/lessons, food concession, and shaded or open picnic grounds with tables and cooking grills as well as a play area.
Directions: From I-89, Exit #17 (Champlain Islands): Go 4 mi N on U.S. 2.
Please visit http://www.vtstateparks.com for additional information concerning Vermont’s State Parks.
Vermont State Parks – Northeast Area
Elmore State Park
856 Vt. Route 12, Lake Elmore, Vermont 05657
In-season information 802-888-2982
Season: Late May to October 15
The town of Elmore contains 23,040 acres (approximately 36 square miles). About half the area is suited for productive forestation and the remainder is harmonious to good dairy farming. Lake Elmore is 219 acres, and lies northwest of the village and empties into the Lamoille River through Pond Brook. The campground has 45 tent/trailer sites and 15 lean-tos. Two restrooms are available in the campground; one with hot showers ($). A sanitary dump station is available, but no hookups. The day use area includes a large sandy beach, historic CCC bathhouse with a concession stand, restrooms and a rental pavilion, a picnic shelter, numberous tables and grills, and row boat, canoe and kayak rentals.
Area Attractions: Alpine Slide, Gondolas, and Trapp Family Lodge, Stowe; Johnson Woolen Mills, Johnson; Ben and Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory, Waterbury; State Capitol and Historical Society, Montpelier.
Directions: From Morrisville: Go 5 mi S on VT Hwy 12 to Lake Elmor).
Crystal Lake State Park
96 Bellwater Ave Barton, Vermont 05822
In Season Information:: 802-525-6205
Call 800-658-6934 for pre-season Cottage reservations.
Season: Late May to September (Labor Day) – cottage rental until Mid-October
Crystal Lake is approximately three miles long and about one mile in width. In some places it is known to be more than 100 feet deep. It is a glacial lake beautifully situated among roughhewn mountain sides.The large historic granite bathhouse has rest rooms, changing areas, and a concession stand. There are approximately 40 free standing charcoal grills, nearly 80 picnic tables, play areas, rental boats and canoes, and lots of parking space.
Area Attractions: Jay Peak Gondola, Jay; Burke Mountain Toll Road and fire tower, E. Burke; Historical Granite School, Brownington; Ethan Allen Furniture, Orleans.
Brighton State Park
102 State Park Road Island Pond, Vermont 05846
In-season information: 802-723-4360
Season: Mid-May to October 15
The primary attraction of this general area is its remoteness: mountains with tree-covered slopes, fast running rivers and streams, and clear lakes. The land northeast and southeast of Island Pond is especially suited to the angler, the hunter, or the outdoor lover, and is virtually without roads or villages.The campground sits on the mostly undeveloped Spectacle Pond where it is common to hear loons calling at night. There are 61 tent/trailer sites and 23 leantos. All three restrooms include hot showers. A sanitary dump station is available. There are hiking trails, a camper’s beach with boat rentals, nature museum, an amphitheater, a garage theater, and play area.
Area Attractions: Ethan Allen Furniture (2 miles E. Route 105); Bald Mountain Fish Hatchery, Newark; Maple Grove Museum, Fairbanks Museum and Planetarium, St. Johnsbury.
Directions: From Island Pond: Go 2 mi E on Hwy 105, then 3/4 mi S on local road.
Maidstone State Park
R1, Box 388, Guildhall, Vermont 05905
In-season information 802-676-3930
Season: Mid-May to September (Labor Day)
Maidstone is the most remote of Vermont’s state parks and still retains much of the wilderness character associated with the Northeast Kingdom. The lake offers good lake trout and salmon fishing and has had some outstanding record catches. Maidstone Lake is one of the few lakes in Vermont where loons have reared their young in recent years. The campground has 45 tent/trailer sites and 37 lean-tos. Three of the four rest rooms include hot showers. A sanitary dump station is available. There is a play area, hiking trails, and a swimming beach in both camp areas. A picnic shelter, swimming beach, and two additional rest rooms are also available at the day use area.
Area Attractions: Ethan Allen Furniture, Island Pond; Peaslee’s Host Farm for Consumer Education, Guildhall; Colebrook Fish Hatchery, Colebrook; Historical Holton House Flea Market, Lancaster; Santa’s Village, Jeffersonville.
Directions: From Bloomfield: Go 5 mi S on Hwy 102, then 5 mi SW on State Forest Hwy.
Smugglers Notch State Park
7248 Mountain Road Stowe, Vermont 05672
In-season information: 802-253-4014
Season: Mid-May to October 15
Smugglers Notch is a narrow pass through the mountain with 1,000 foot cliffs on either side. In the early days, only a footpath and trail for horses existed. Smugglers Notch State Park is a corridor park with developed facilities along VT 108. Is consists of a campground, a picnic area, the “Notch” proper, and trailheads to some of the more popular hiking trails in Vermont. The campground, with majestic views of Mount Mansfield – the highest peak in Vermont, has 21 tent/trailer sites and 14 leantos. One of the two restrooms includes hot showers. A sanitary dump station is available, but no hookups. The campground is surrounded by many miles of hiking trails accessible from a variety of trailheads.
Area Attractions: Smugglers Notch Historic Site, (2 miles north Route 108); Toll Road (1 mile south Route 108); Trapp Family Lodge, Stowe; Johnson Woolen Mills, Johnson; Alpine Slide, Spruce Peak; Gondolas, Mt. Mansfield; Ben and Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory, Waterbury; Smuggler’s Notch Resort, Jeffersonville.
Directions: From Stowe: Go 10 mi NW on Hwy 108, at Mt. Mansfield.
Waterbury Center State Park
177 Reservoir Rd Waterbury Center, Vermont 05677
Pre-season Reservations: 800-658-6934
In Season Reservations: 802-244-1226
Season: Mid-May to September (Labor Day)
Waterbury Center State Park lies on the easterly trivium of Waterbury Reservoir, a quarter mile off VT Route 100. The park is located on a 90-acre peninsula with 22 picnic sites, tables, hibachis, swimming beach, nature trail, trailer boat ramp, boat rentals, concession area and restrooms. Due to necessary dam repairs, the water level of Waterbury Reservoir has been lowered substantially. Targeted date for raising the water level is 2005. Until this time, there will be no swimming or boating available at Waterbury Center State Park. The facility is open to the public free of charge.
Area Attractions: Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory and Cold Hollow Cider Mill (SR 100, Waterbury); Alpine slide and gondolas (Stowe); Granite Quarries (Barre); State Capitol (Montpelier); Vermont History Center (Barre).
Directions: From I-89 (Exit #10): Go 2-3/4 mi N on SR 100, left on Old River Road.
Little River State Park
3444 Little River Rd Waterbury, Vermont 05676
In-season information: 802-244-7103
Season: Mid-May to October 15
Little River State Park, which is part of Mt. Mansfield State Forest, primarily consists of a campground with 81 tent/trailer sites and 20 leantos. This is central Vermont’s largest and most popular campground. Three of the four restrooms include hot showers. A sanitary dump station is available. Within the campground, there are swimming beaches, play areas, a boat launch, ballfield, nature museum and programs, and boat rentals. Adjacent to the park are miles of hiking trails (open for day use) that take in the rich cultural and natural history of the area. Due to necessary dam repairs, the water level of the Waterbury Reservoir has been lowered substantially. The targeted date for raising the water level is 2005. Until this time, boating opportunities on the Reservoir are limited to non-motorized boats. The swimming beaches at the campground are not useable, but provisions have been made for campers’ use of the Town of Waterbury Swimming Pool located 4 miles from the campground.
Area Attractions: Ben and Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory and Cold Hollow Cider Mill, Route 100, Waterbury; Alpine Slide and Gondolas, Stowe; Granite Quarries, Barre; State Capitol and Historical Society, Montpelier; Camel’s Hump, North Duxbury; Waterbury Flea Market, Waterbury. 30 miles to Burlington, Vermont.
Directions: From Jct. Hwy 100 and U.S. 2: Go 1-1/2 mi W on U.S. 2, then 3-1/2 mi N on Little River Rd. Located 30 miles south of Burlington just off Interstate 89.
Boulder Beach State Park
440 Boulder Beach Rd, Groton, Vermont 05046
In Season Reservations:: 802-584-3823
Call 800-658-6934 for pre-season shelter reservation.
Season: Late May to September (Labor Day)
The day use area has 75 shaded picnic sites with tables and hibachis. All rest rooms have lavatories and flush toilets. There is 200 feet of beach and swimming area, cartop boat launch, play area, shelter with group facilities, three large parking lots, and a concession stand.
Directions: From Groton: Go 2 mi W on U.S. 302, then 6 mi NW on Vt. 232, then 2 mi E on Boulder Beach Rd.
New Discovery State Park
4239 VT Rt 232 Marshfield, Vermont 05658
In-season information: 802-426-3042
Season: Mid-May to September (Labor Day)
The campground has 47 tent/trailer sites and 14 lean-tos. Both rest rooms include hot showers. A sanitary dump station is available. There is a play area and access to miles of hiking trails. A picnic shelter with rest rooms is located at Osmore Pond about one mile from the campground.
Directions: From Groton: Go 2 mi W on U.S. 302, then 9-1/2 mi NW on Vt. 232.
Big Deer State Park
303 Boulder Beach Rd, Groton, Vermont 05046
In-season information 802-584-3822
Reservations can be made from the 4th of July weekend to Labor Day weekend.
The campground has 28 tent/trailer sites. The rest room includes hot showers. A sanitary dump station is available at Stillwater. There’s easy access to the Nature Center and miles of hiking trails.
Directions: From Groton: Go 2 mi W on U.S. 302, then 6 mi NW on Vt. 232, then 1-1/2 mi E on Boulder Beach Rd.
Kettle Pond State Park
4239 VT Rt 232 Marshfield, Vermont 05658
In-season information: 802-426-3042
Season: Mid-May to October 15
The campground has 27 lean-tos arranged into five separate groups. There are three double pit toilets and a hand pump well. There is a cartop boat launch, swimming area, and access to miles of hiking trails. Also available are seven remote campsites.
Directions: From Groton: Go 2 mi W on U.S. 302, then 7-1/2 mi NW on Vt. 232.
Ricker Pond State Park
526 State Forest Rd. Groton, Vermont 05046
In-season information 802-584-3821
Season: Mid-May to October 15
The campground has 32 tent/trailer sites, a rental cottage and 23 lean-tos. Two of the three rest rooms include hot showers. A sanitary dump station is available. There is a swimming beach, boat launch, shelter, and access to miles of hiking trails.
Directions: From Groton: Go 2 mi W on U.S. 302, then 2-1/2 mi NW on Vt. 232.
Seyon Ranch State Park
400 Seyon Park Road Groton, Vermont 05046
Pre-season Reservations: 800-658-6934
In Season Reservations: 802-584-3829
Season: Mid-April to Late-October
Nestled alongside Noyes Pond and the eastern base of Spruce Mountain, Seyon is a natural habitat for squaretail trout and supports a plentiful trout fishery. In addition to fly fishing, visitors can observe many forms of native wildlife, including moose. Seyon offers private and semi-private sleeping accommodations for up to 16, and can provide meals for 50 diners. Small groups are accepted first-come first-served and individuals may stay on a space-available basis.
Directions: From Groton: Go 3 mi W on U.S. 302, then 3 mi W on town road.
Stillwater State Park
126 Boulder Beach Rd. Groton, Vermont 05046
In-season information: 802-584-3822
Season: Mid-May to October 15
The campground has 62 tent/trailer sites and 17 lean-tos. All rest rooms include hot showers. A sanitary dump station is available. There is a swimming beach, boat launch/dock facility, play area, shelter, and access to miles of hiking trails. The Groton Nature Center is within walking distance.
Directions: From Groton: Go 2 mi W on U.S. 302, then 6 mi NW on Vt. 232, then 1/2 mi E on Boulder Beach Rd.
Please visit http://www.vtstateparks.com for additional information concerning Vermont’s State Parks.
Vermont State Parks – Southwest Area
Mt. Philo State Park
5425 Mt Philo Rd Charlotte, Vermont 05445
in-season information: 802-425-2390
Season: Mid-May to October 15
The 168-acre park is located atop Mt. Philo (968′ elevation) and overlooks the Lake Champlain Valley and the Adirondack Mountains of New York. A narrow, steep road (not recommended for trailers) provides visitors access to the top of the mountain. There are two small camping areas with a total of 10 sites including 3 lean-tos, located at the top of the mountain and on the mountainside. Flush toilets and hot showers are provided. The mountaintop picnic area offers spectacular views of the lake, valley, and mountains to the west. Hiking trails lead from the summit to the base. Swimming is available at Kingsland Bay State Park (6 miles) or Button Bay State Park (15 miles). There is boating, fishing, and sailing in nearby Lake Champlain.
Area Attractions: Basin Harbor Maritime Museum, Crown Point, Chimney Point, Fort Ticonderoga, Shelburne Museum, Lake Champlain Ferries, and the Morgan Horse Farm, Middlebury.
Directions: From Jct. Hwy 22A and U.S. 7: Go 6 mi N on U.S. 7, then 1 mi E on local road (Caution: steep entrance and camp roads — not recommended for trailers).
Button Bay State Park
5 Button Bay State Park Rd, Vergennes, Vermont 05491
In-season information: 802-475-2377
Season: Mid-May to October 15
Button Bay, a 253-acre park, is located on a bluff in Ferrisburgh along the 130-mile long Lake Champlain.The camping area is an open, grassy area overlooking Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains. There are 73 sites including 13 lean-tos. Flush toilets, hot showers, and a dump station are provided. The park has a play area and a swimming pool with lifeguards. There are a picnic area and a large open picnic shelter pavilion for large group gatherings.
Area Attractions: Lake Champlain Maritime Museum, Crown Point, Chimney Point, Fort Ticonderoga, Shelburne Museum, Lake Champlain Ferries, and the Morgan Horse Farm in Middlebury.
Directions: From Vergennes: Go 1/2 mi S on Hwy 22A, then 6-1/2 mi NW on local roads.
Branbury State Park
3570 Lake Dunmore Rd, Rt 53 Salisbury, Vermont 05733
In-season information 802-247-5925
Season: Mid-May to October 15
Branbury is located on the eastern shore of Lake Dunmore at the base of Mt. Moosalamoo. The park is divided by Route 53. Twenty-two tent sites and 6 lean-to sites are on one side of the highway in a heavily wooded area, and 17 tent sites are located along the perimeter of a grassy open area near the beach. Flush toilets, hot showers, and a dump station are provided. The 1000 foot natural sandy beach, clean, clear Lake Dunmore, and the large open grassy areas make the area very popular for swimming, sunning, or picnicking. Hiking trails to scenic vistas, waterfalls, caves, mountain lakes and streams, as well as an interpretive nature trail, provide outstanding hiking opportunities. There is fishing and boating (rowboats, canoes, paddle boat rentals) on Lake Dunmore.
Area Attractions: Salisbury Fish Hatchery (3 miles), Morgan Horse Farm and Craft Center, Middlebury; Lake Champlain Ferries, Shelburne Museum, Burlington; Wilson Castle and Vermont Marble Exhibit, Proctor; Maple Sugar Museum, Pittsford.
Directions: From Middlebury: Go 7 mi S on U.S. 7, then 4 mi S on Hwy. 53
Bomoseen State Park
22 Cedar Mountain Rd, Fair Haven, Vermont 05743
In-season information: 802-265-4242
Season: Mid-May to September (Labor Day)
Bomoseen State Park is located in the Taconic Mountains on the shores of Vermont’s largest lake wholly within the state. The campground contains 66 campsites including 10 lean-tos. The sites are both wooded and grassy open areas. Some are on the lakeshore. Flush toilets, hot showers, and a dump station are provided. The park has a beach for swimming and a picnic area. An open pavilion-type picnic shelter can be reserved for large gatherings. A snack bar concession and boat rentals are available at the beach. Several hiking trails provide great hiking opportunities. There is boating and fishing in Lake Bomoseen, as well as in Glen Lake.
Area Attractions: Hubbardton Battlefield, Wilson Castle and Vermont Marble Exhibit, Proctor; Morgan Horse Farm, Middlebury; Lake Champlain Ferries, Devils Bowl Speedway, Benson; Shelburne Museum, Shelburne.
Directions: From Hydeville: Go 4 mi N on West Shore Rd., on western shore of lake.
Emerald Lake State Park
65 Emerald Lake Lane, East Dorset, Vermont 05253
In-season information: 802-362-1655
Season: Late May to October 15
The 430-acre park is located along the side of Dorset Mountain with Emerald Lake, the head waters of Otter Creek, at its base. The 105 campsites, including 36 lean-tos, are located on a heavily wooded ridge above Emerald Lake. Flush toilets, hot showers and a dump station are provided. There is a small beach with snack bar and boat rental facilities. A hillside picnic area, as well as lakeside picnic tables are available. An open picnic shelter pavilion can be reserved for large group gatherings. Trails throughout the park and nearby provide great hiking opportunities. Swimming, fishing, and boating (no motors) are popular in the lake.
Area Attractions: Shopping in Manchester, historic Hildene and the Equinox Hotel, Manchester; Bennington Museum and Monument, Bennington; Wilson Castle and the Vermont Marble Exhibit, Proctor.
Directions: In North Dorset on Rt 7
Woodford State Park
142 State Park Road, Bennington, Vermont 05201-9468
In-season information: 802-447-7169
Season: Mid-May to October 15
Woodford State Park comprises 398 acres located on a mountain plateau (2,400 feet, the highest of all Vermont’s state parks) and surrounds Adams Reservoir. The campground has 103 sites including 20 lean-tos. The heavily wooded area surrounds the reservoir and offers great camping opportunities. Flush toilets, hot showers, and a dump station are provided. There is a small beach and picnic area near the dam with pit toilet facilities. Rowboats, canoes, and paddle boats are available for rent. There are several hiking trails, including a 2.7 mile trail around the lake.
Area Attractions: Bennington Museum and Monument, Park-McCullough Mansion, Hildene and the Equinox Hotel, Manchester; Norman Rockwell Museum in Arlington.
Directions: From Bennington: Go 10 mi E on Hwy 9.
Kingsland Bay State Park
787 Kingsland Bay SP Rd, Ferrisburgh, Vermont 05456
In-Season Information: 802-877-3445
Season: Mid-May to September (Labor Day)
Call 800-658-1622 for pre-season building reservations.
Kingsland Bay State Park is one of Vermont’s newest parks and at present has limited services. Much of the 264 acres, along the shores of Lake Champlain, remains as a natural area. Picnicking, swimming, and toilet facilities are available. There are several buildings available for large group gatherings including family reunions, weddings, and company picnics. There are scenic trails along the shoreline of Lake Champlain. Boating, fishing, and sailing are also popular.
Directions:From Ferrisburg: From Rt 7 W on Little Chicago Road about 1-1/2 mi, N onto Slang Road, 3 mi
D.A.R. State Park
6750 VT Rte – 17 West – Addison, Vermont 05491
In-season information: 802-759-2354
Season: Late May to September (Labor Day)
Much of the 95-acre park, located on the shores of Lake Champlain, was once open farm and pasture land. There are 70 sites including 24 lean-tos located in an open grassy area, as well as under a mature stand of hickory trees. There are flush toilets, hot showers ($), and a dump station provided. There is a small picnic area located on a bluff above the lake, as well as a nice stone pavilion/picnic shelter for group gatherings. Boating, fishing, sailing, and swimming are popular in Lake Champlain.
Area Attractions: Lake Champlain Maritime Museum, Basin Harbor; Crown Point, Chimney Point, Fort Ticonderoga, and Shelburne Museum, Shelburne; Lake Champlain Ferries; Morgan Horse Farm, Middlebury.
Directions From Vergennes: Go 6 mi SW on Hwy 22A, 7 mi SW on Hwy 17 (Addison).
Half Moon State Park
1621 Black Pond Road, Hubbardton,Vermont 05743
In-season information: 802-273-2848
Season: Mid-May to October15
Half Moon State Park is located within the 3576-acre Bomoseen State Park. Set in dense woods in a small sheltered basin, the park surrounds Half Moon Pond. The 59 tent sites and 10 lean-to sites provide great camping opportunities in a quiet, peaceful environment. Flush toilets, hot showers and a dump station are provided. There are a play area and hiking trails to High Pond and to Bomoseen State Park. This is a camping only park and there are no day use opportunities. There is limited swimming, but great fishing and boating (no motors) in the pond (boat rentals available), as well as in other lakes and ponds nearby.
Area Attractions: There are stock car races, historic sites, museums, horseback riding in the area, and other attractions including Hubbardton Battlefield, Wilson Castle, and Vermont Marble Exhibit, Proctor; Morgan Horse Farm, Middlebury; Lake Champlain Ferries, Devil’s Bowl Speedway, Benson; Shelburne Museum, Shelburne.
Directions: Between Fair Haven and Rutland on Rt. 4, take Exit 4. Go North on Rt. 30 for 6 1/2 miles, left on Hortonia road for 2 miles and left on Black Pond road for 2 miles.
Lake St. Catherine State Park
3034 VT Rte. 30 – South – Poultney, Vermont 05764
In-season information: 802-287-9158
Season: Mid-May to October 15
The park, which consists of 117 acres, first opened as a small picnic and swimming area in 1953. The campground contains 50 tent/trailer sites and 11 lean-to sites. Grassy open areas, wooded sites and lake access make this camping area very popular. Flush toilets, hot showers ($), and a dump station are provided. The park has well-developed picnic, play, and swimming areas. There is a snack bar concession with rowboats and paddle boats rentals. Boating and fishing are popular on the lake.
Area Attractions: Equinox Mountain Drive, Manchester; Wilson’s Castle and Vermont Marble Exhibit, Proctor; Hildene and Equinox Hotel, Manchester; Bennington Monument and Museum, Bennington; Orvis, Manchester.
Directions: From Poultney: Go 3 mi S on Hwy 30.
Shaftsbury State Park
262 Shaftsbury SP Rd, Shaftsbury, Vermont 05262
In Season Information: 802-375-9978
Season: Mid-May to September (Labor Day)
Call 800-658-1622 for pre-season shelter reservations.
Lake Shaftsbury State Park is on an 84-acre parcel surrounding the small but picturesque Lake Shaftsbury. Lake Shaftsbury operates a group camping area with clusters of lean-tos (15) available throughout the year for scouts, church groups, and other organizations. Pit toilet facilities are available. There is also a developed beach, play area, and picnic area. There is an open picnic shelter/pavilion available for large group gatherings. The snack bar concession has rental rowboats, paddle boats, and canoes. The “Healing Springs Nature Trail” around the lake is also a popular spot.
Area Attractions: Bennington Monument and Museum, Bennington; Hildene and Equinox Hotel, Manchester; Norman Rockwell Museum, Arlington; Southern Vermont Arts Center, Manchester.
Directions: From Bennington: Go 10 mi N on Route 7A.
Please visit http://www.vtstateparks.com for additional information on Vermont’s State Parks.
Vermont State Parks – Southeast Area
Allis State Park
284 Allis State Park Road, , Randolph, Vermont 05060
In-season: 802-276-3175
Season: Mid-May to September (Labor Day)
Facilities: The campground at Allis State Park consists of 18 tent sites and 8 lean-to sites. One rest room serves the entire campground. There is a sanitary dump station, but no hookups. Located in the day use area is a large picnic shelter with rest rooms and a play area.
Area Attractions: Floating Bridge, Marvin Newton House, Brookfield; Norwich University Museum, Northfield; Vermont State House, State Museum of the Vermont Historical Society, Montpelier; Barre Granite Quarries, Graniteville and Websterville; John Selby Maple Museum, Barre; Historical Museum, Randolph.
Directions: From Randolph: Go 12 mi N on Hwy 12. Go 1.5 mi E on Vt. 65.
Silver Lake State Park
PO Box 67 Barnard, Vermont 05031
In-season: 802-234-9451
Season: Mid-May to Labor Day
Facilities: Silver Lake supports a good fishery of northern pike, perch, bass and other warm-water species. During the winter months, when the park is closed, the lake is a popular spot for ice skating and ice fishing.
There are 40 tent/trailer sites and 7 lean-to sites. There are two rest rooms in the camping area. There is a sanitary station, but no hookups. The beach offers food concession, rest rooms, changing rooms, and boat and canoe rentals. There is a large picnic shelter.
Area Attractions: Charles Fenton Art Gallery, The Institute of Natural Science, Woodstock; Porter Music Box, Randolph; Federal Salmon Hatchery, Bethel; Quechee Gorge, and Simon Pearce Glass Blowing Mill and Pottery Shop, Quechee.
Directions: From Barnard: Go 1/4 mi N on Town Road.
Quechee State Park
764 Dewey Mills Road, White River Junction, Vermont 05001
In-season: 802-295-2990
Season: Mid-May to October 15
The park contains 47 tent/trailer sites and 7 lean-to sites which are located in the camping area. Two bathrooms with showers serve the campground. Most sites accommodate large RVs. There is a sanitary dump station, but no hookups. A large field and play area are also in the campground. Located next to Quechee Gorge is a picnic area with a pit toilet and a hiking trail along the gorge.
Area Attractions: Quechee Gorge, Glass Blowing Mill and Pottery Shop, Quechee; Billings Farm Museum, Woodstock; King Arthur Flour Factory & Museum, Norwich; St. Gaudens National Historic Site, Cornish, NH.
Directions: From Jct. I-89 and U.S. 4 (Exit 1): Go 3 mi W on U.S. 4.
Camp Plymouth State Park
2008 Scout Camp Rd Ludlow, Vermont 05149
Pre-season: 800-299-3071- In Season: 802-228-2025
Season: Mid-May to September (Labor Day) – cottage rentals until Oct. 15
There is a group camping area on the south side of Buffalo Brook consisting of six lean-tos, tent sites, pit toilets, and a large field. On the north side of the brook there are a large picnic area, play area, sandy beach, horseshoe pits, concession, and boat rentals. Four rental cottages available through Columbus Day.
Area Attractions: Art galleries, Bridgewater Mill Mall, and Chaffee, Rutland; Cheese Factory, Plymouth; Calvin Coolidge Presidential Homestead and Historic Site, Plymouth; Okemo Mt. Recreation Area; Alpine Slide at Pico Ski Area, Gondola rides at Killington Ski Area, Sherburne.
Directions: From Hwy 100 in Tyson: cross the concrete bridge, go 1 mi E uphill to crossroad and turn left, go 1 mi N on the east side of Echo Lake.
Wilgus State Park
Box 196, Ascutney, Vermont 05030
In-season: 802-674-5422
Season: Mid-May to October 15
There are 19 tent sites and 6 lean-to sites which are located along the Connecticut River bank. There is one rest room with running water and hot showers. There are a play area, picnic area, and 3 lean-tos in the group area. Canoe, kayak, and row boat rentals are available. A trailer sanitary station is lavailable. This park provides day use access to the Connecticut River and the Pinnacle Trail hike provides a scenic vista of the Connecticut River Valley.
Area Attractions: The road to Mt. Ascutney summit, Windsor Covered Bridge, American Precision Museum, Quechee Gorge, St. Gaudens National Historic Site.
Directions: From I-91 (Exit #8): Go 1-1/2 mi S on U.S. 5.
Jamaica State Park
285 Salmon Hole Lane Jamaica, Vermont 05343
In-season: 802-874-4600
Season: Last Friday in April to October 15
There are 43 tent/trailer sites and 18 lean-to sites that are in the campground. Two rest rooms, complete with hot showers, are located in the campground. A picnic shelter and nature center is located near the picnic area and swimming hole. A hiking trail follows the West River and branches off toward Hamilton Falls.
Area Attractions: Hamilton Falls, Hildene – Robert Todd Lincoln’s home, Manchester. A theater and shops, Weston; Art Center, Manchester; Alpine Slide, Bromley; Townshend Dam Recreation Area.
Directions: From Jamaica: Go 1/2 m E on Depot St.
Molly Stark State Park
705 Route 9 East, Wilmington, Vermont 05363
In-season: 802-464-5460
Season: Mid-May to October 15
The camping areas consist of 23 tent/trailer sites and 11 lean-to sites. One rest room with showers is located in each area. Features a play area and a picnic pavilion for large groups. A hiking trail starts from the park and goes up to the Mt. Olga fire tower.
Area Attractions: Gondola, Mt. Snow; Vermont Historical Society, Norton House Museum, Hermitage Sugar house and Game Bird Farm, 1836 Country Store Village, Maple Grove Honey Museum, Wilmington; Brattleboro Museum and Art Center, Brattleboro; Luman Nelson Wildlife Museum, Marlboro; Bennington Museum, Bennington.
Directions: From Brattleboro: Exit #2, I-91, 15 mi W on Vt. 9.
Thetford State Park
Box 132 Thetford, Vermont 05074
In-season: 802-785-2266
Season: Mid-May to September (Labor Day)
There is one camping loop with 14 tent sites and 2 lean-to sites. One rest room with running water and hot showers. A play area is also located here. Fireplaces and tables are found further up the road.
Area Attractions: Quechee Gorge, Quechee; Catamount Brewing Co., White River Junction; Atlantic Salmon Fish Ladder, Wilder; and summer theaters, Hanover NH, and White River Junction.
Directions: From I-91, Exit #14: Go 1 mi N on Vt. 113A to Thetford Hill, S 1-1/2 mi on Academy Rd.
Gifford Woods State Park
34 Gifford Woods Killington, Vermont 05751
In-season: 802-775-5354
Season: Mid-May to October 15
The Appalachian Trail runs through the park, and joins the Long Trail about 1-1/2 miles from the camping area. There are spectacular views from Deer Leap Mountain and waterfalls. Across Route 100 from the developed campground is Gifford Woods Natural Area, a 7-acre stand of virgin hardwoods. There are 27 tent/trailer sites and 21 lean-to sites situated in two camping areas. Each area has a rest room with modern plumbing and hot showers. There is a trailer sanitary station, but no hookups. A wooded picnic area is with a play area is featured. Day hikes are available.
Area Attractions: Killington Gondola, and Pico Alpine Slide, Sherburne; Vermont Marble Exhibit and Wilson’s Castle, Proctor; Maple Museum, Pittsford.
Directions: From Jct. U.S. 4 and Hwy 100: Go 1/2 m N on Hwy 100
Coolidge State Park
855 Coolidge SP Rd Plymouth, Vermont 05056
In-season: 802-672-3612
Season: Mid-May to October 15
Coolidge State Forest contains a total of 16,166 acres throughout seven towns. The recreational center of the forest is Coolidge State Park, which consists of about 500 acres in the eastern district. The park includes a campground, picnic area, and an established hiking trail system. There are 35 lean-to sites and 25 tent/trailer sites arranged in two camping areas. There is a total of five rest rooms providing modern plumbing, two of which have hot showers. There are two large picnic shelters, a picnic area, and a play area. There also is a sanitary dump station, but no hookups. Many day hikes are available in the park.
Area Attractions: Art galleries, Bridgewater Mill Mall and Chaffee, Rutland; Wilson’s Castle, Vermont Marble Exhibit, Proctor; Cheese Factory, Calvin Coolidge Presidential Homestead and Historic Site, Plymouth; Okemo Mt. Recreation Area; Pico Alpine Slide; Killington Gondola, Sherburne. Coolidge State Park is located near Camp Plymouth State Park, which offers swimming and picnicking.
Directions: From Jct. Hwy 100 and Hwy 100A: Go 2 mi N on Hwy 100A.
Ascutney State Park
1826 Back Mountain Road Windsor, Vermont 05089
In-season information: 802-674-2060
Season: Mid-May to October 15
The park has 39 wooded tent/trailer sites and 10 lean-to sites. A rest room providing modern plumbing and hot showers is available. There is a sanitary dump station for RV’s. There is a small picnic area at the foot of the summit, and a picnic area and shelter part way up the summit road.
Area Attractions: A visit to Windsor to view the birthplace of Vermont, the Old Constitution House – State Craft Center, and the American Precision Museum. Other attractions include Saint Gaudens National Park, Cornish, NH; Old Fort #4, Charleston, NH; Ruggles Mine, Grafton, NH.
Directions: From I-91 (Exit 8): Go .2 mi E on Rt 131 to stop light, turn left on Rt 5 for 1.2 mi, then bear left on Rt 44A for 1 mi.
Lowell Lake State Park
1756 Little Pond Rd. Londonderry, Vermont 05148
In Season Information: 802-824-4035
Season: Mid-May to October 15
Lowell Lake Trail is a loop approximately 3,5 miles in length, which completely encircles Lowell Lake. Trail highlights include a Revolutionary War-era cemetery, stands of large white pine trees, and scenic views of the lake and wetlands. Overnight camping and camp fires are not allowed. Currently park use is limited to informal Day Use with no facilities.
Directions: Take Little Pond Road off Rt. 11 about 3 miles east of Londonderry.
Townshend State Park
2755 State Forest Rd Townshend, Vermont 05353
In-service information: 802-365-7500
Season: Mid-May to Labor Day
Townshend State Park is located at the foot of Bald Mountain on a bend of the West River. There is a view of Rattlesnake Mountain to the north from the ranger’s quarters. The campground, situated in a wooded area, has 30 tent/trailer sites and 4 lean-to sites. There are two bathrooms, one of which has showers. A picnic shelter with a fireplace and three tables is attached to the ranger’s quarters. There is a trail to the top of Bald Mountain for day hiking.
Area Attractions: Flea markets, Newfane and Townshend; Alpine Slide, Bromley; Village Store and Bowl Mill, Weston; Windham County Historical Museum, Newfane; Hildene, home of Robert Todd Lincoln, and the Jelly Mill, Manchester.
Directions: From Jct. Hwy 30 and Town Rd.: Go 3 mi N on Town Rd.
Fort Dummer State Park
517 Old Guilford Road Brattleboro, VT 05301
In-season information: 802-254-2610
Season: Late May to September (Labor Day)
Fort Dummer State Park, located in the Connecticut River Valley, has 217 acres of forest land just outside of Brattleboro. The campground has 51 tent/trailer sites and 10 lean-to sites. These are located in two adjacent areas and are served by two toilet buildings, both with hot showers. There is a sanitary dump station. Also located within the park are a small picnic area, hiking trails, a play area, and a large open field.
Area Attractions: Basketville, Putney; Flea Market, Newfane; Bennington Battle Monument, Bennington; Townshend Dam, Townshend; also, covered bridges in the area.
Directions: From Jct. I-91 (Exit 1, Brattleboro) & U.S. 5: Go 1/10 mi N on U.S. 5, then 1/2 mi E on Fairground Rd., then 1 mi S on Main Street and Old Guilford Rd.
Please visit http://www.vtstateparks.com for more information on Vermont’s State Parks.