Coolidge State Park
A trip to Coolidge State Park is a trip back in time; the park remains essentially the way it was when it was first created by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930’s. Known for its rustic feel, hillside campsites that give way to dramatic mountain views and authentic character, Coolidge State Park is the developed recreation centerpiece of the 21,500 acre Calvin Coolidge State Forest, the largest state-owned land holding in central Vermont. Many campers feel that sites at Coolidge have the best views in all of Vermont, which have sweeping views of the Black River valley and the Green Mountains. The park is particularly popular during the stunning fall foliage season. There are extensive hiking trails in Coolidge State Forest and a large swimming beach at nearby Camp Plymouth State Park. The log lean-tos, picnic shelters and stone fireplace were all built by the CCC in the 1930’s adding to the park’s rustic charm. Reservations can be made up to eleven months in advance by calling the central reservations call center at 1-888-409-7579 Monday – Friday 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM.
Mt. Philo State Park Vermont’s very first state park, Mt. Philo overlooks the Lake Champlain Valley of Vermont and Adirondack mountains of New York. There are two ways up the mountain – by a steep auto road or hiking up the mountain trail. Either way, you will be rewarded by spectacular views of the lake, valley and mountains to the west. This is also a favorite spot for viewing the spring and fall raptor migrations as these birds use the updrafts created by the mountain as they pass through the Champlain Valley. On top of the mountain is an open grassy picnic area and log enclosed picnic shelter. The mountaintop shelter is a popular spot for weddings. Mt. Philo State Park has only ten campsites, including three lean-to’s, which makes for some very serene mountaintop camping. Many groups rent out the whole park to host family reunions or wedding ceremonies. Reservations for the shelter and camping can be made through the central reservations call center at 1-888-409-7579 Monday – Friday 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM.
Kill Kare State Park
A former summer camp for boys, Kill Kare State Park is located on Lake Champlain at the southwestern tip of St. Albans Point, a three-mile peninsula defining St. Albans Bay. Kill Kare is surrounded by sparkling water on three sides, with beautiful views of wooded islands, green hills, and the Adirondack Mountains in the far distance. Just offshore are Mosquito and Burton Islands, to the northwest lies Woods Island. All three are state-owned, and a passenger ferry runs daily between Kill Kare State Park and Burton Island. At Kill Kare you’ll find a large picnic shelter with group-sized grills; this is a popular venue for wedding receptions, group picnics, and family reunions. The park’s main building was a resort hotel in the mid-to-late 1800’s. Today Kill Kare is a favorite launch site for paddlers heading to Burton, Woods, or Knight Island State Parks. Burton Island, with its marina and bistro is but a short paddle from Kill Kare and many visitors will canoe or kayak from Kill Kare out to the island and enjoy breakfast or lunch at the bistro or a hike around the island. At Kill Kare one might also enjoy a picnic on the shady,green lawn, a swim in the lake, or a stroll through one of the park’s many flower gardens. Reservations for the picnic shelter can be made through the central reservations call center at 1-888-409-7579 Monday - Friday 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM.
Kingsland Bay State Park
Also located along the shores of Lake Champlain is Kingsland Bay State Park. Situated on a quiet bay, this park has expansive lawns, large swimming area, canoe and kayak rentals, a large hall with fireplace and million-dollar views of Lake Champlain in an estate-like setting. Formerly an elite girl’s camp that Jackie Onassis once attended, this park is the most popular wedding venue in the Vermont State Park system. There are also two primitive, remote campsites just offshore that are part of the Lake Champlain Paddlers Trail. A kid-friendly nature trail takes you out to the end of MacDonough Point and back. Not far from the park, is access to Otter Creek, a favorite paddling spot for nature lovers. Reservations for the event hall can be made up to eleven months in advance by calling the central reservations call center at 1-888-409-7579 Monday – Friday 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM.
New Discovery State Park
While not exactly in New Discovery State Park, some of the best views in Vermont can be found in the Groton State Forest area, which contain New Discovery, Stillwater, Big Deer, Kettle Pond, Ricker Pond and Boulder Beach State Parks. The 26,000 acre forest is famous for its views of vast expanses of forest and northern bogs and wetlands. The most photographed view in the Vermont State Park system must be Owl’s Head, a promontory between New Discovery State Park and Kettle Pond State Park. You can drive most of the way, or hike if you’d like, but Owls Head is easy to access. On top, there is a stone shelter and commanding views of the surrounding hills, valleys and lakes. Another popular viewpoint is the boggy wetland leading into Stillwater State Park where moose sightings are common. New Discovery State Park offers tent, RV and lean-to camping and also has a horse camping area. Additionally, there are remote lean-to’s located within the park on Osmore Pond. Reservations can be made up to eleven months in advance by calling the central reservation call center at 1-888-409-7579 Monday – Friday 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM.
The Five Best Vermont State Parks for Hiking
Gifford Woods State Park
Gifford Woods State Park is an important hiking crossroads where two major hiking trails meet. The Appalachian Trail, which runs from Georgia to Maine, and the Long Trail, which runs the length of Vermont meet in the park. If you were so inclined you could literally hike from the park south to Georgia or north to Maine. Nearby Green Mountain National Forest and Coolidge State Forest also offer numerous loop hikes. There are spectacular views from the Deer Leap Mountain trail and lovely waterfalls along Thundering Brook Trail. The proximity to all these great hiking opportunities make Gifford Woods State Park a popular pass through location for hikers. The park offers tent, RV, lean-to and cabin camping and hot showers are welcome after some time on the trail. For a small fee, hikers can leave their car at the park instead of at a trailhead. Camping reservations may be made up to eleven months in advance through the central reservations call center at 1-888-409-7579 Monday – Friday 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM.
Branbury State Park
Located on the shores of Lake Dunmore, Branbury State Park abuts the 400,000 acre Green Mountain National Forest and the 20,000 acre Moosalamoo Recreation Area. There are over 70 miles of trails in this region of mountains and lakes traversing the western slopes of the Green Mountains. Some popular trails are the “Falls of Lana” which leads to a series of cascading falls carved out of rock, “Rattlesnake Point”, which has breeding peregrine falcons and panoramic views of Lake Dunmore, and “Silver Lake”, a hike to a small, scenic mountain lake. The park offers tent, RV and lean-to camping, a rental cottage, a large swimming beach and expansive lawns, boat rentals and interpretive programs. Reservations may be made up to eleven months in advance through the central reservations call center at 1-888-409-7579 Monday – Friday 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM.
Ascutney State Park
Mount Ascutney is the weathered core of an old volcano that once towered 20,000 feet into the air standing alone over the Connecticut River. The Mount Ascutney we know today is a monadnock, it is not related geologically to surrounding hills, but rather stands alone and shares a geological history more closely with the White Mountains of New Hampshire. There are four trails that run from the base of the mountain to the summit that are connected by a relatively level trail that follows the ridgeline and crosses the summit. The Weathersfield Trail (2.9 miles) is on the south face of the mountain and passes Cascade Falls, the largest waterfall on the mountain. The Windsor Trail (2.7 miles) passes a small waterfall and small log lean-to on the way to the summit. The Brownsville Trail (3.2 miles) follows an old logging road which passes an old granite quarry and offers great viewing opportunities from the north and west. The Futures Trail (4.6 miles) is the longest trail on Ascutney and can be accessed at two points along the state park mountain road. The park has a 3.7 mile paved auto road leading to the summit that has many excellent scenic views and there is an observation tower on the summit with a panoramic view of the surrounding countryside. There is also a stone picnic shelter that was built by the CCC (Civilian Conservation Corps). Mount Ascutney is considered one of the premier hang gliding sites in New England and two launch sites are situated near the summit. Ascutney State Parks has tent, RV and lean-to camping and reservations may be made up to eleven months in advance through the central reservations call center at 1-888-409-7579 Monday – Friday 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM.
Underhill State Park
Underhill State Park is a part of Vermont’s 34000-acre Mount Mansfield State Forest. The park is on the western face of Mt. Mansfield, nearly half-way up the state’s highest peak. Over the summit ridge is the Stowe Mountain Resort, one of North America’s original ski areas. From Underhill Park there are four hiking trails to the summit ridge of Mt. Mansfield. The Sunset Ridge trail (3.2 miles to the summit) is the most popular. Vermont’s Long Trail traverses the summit ridge and, with several trails up both sides of the mountain, many loops are possible. The ridgeline is almost entirely above tree line, so on clear days you have unobstructed views of the surrounding peaks and valleys, even to Lake Champlain in the distance, and New York’s Adirondack mountains far beyond. Mount Mansfield is one of the two spots in Vermont where you’ll find true alpine tundra, a vegetative type more common in arctic zones far to the north. Underhill State Park is a relatively small and quiet park with tent and lean-to campsites, but no shower facilities. Many of the park’s log lean-tos and stone fireplaces were built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930’s. A separate group camping area, accommodating up to 70 people in nine lean-to’s, is available and provides a private area for groups booking space. Group or individual reservations may be made up to eleven months in advance through the central reservations call center at 1-888-409-7579 Monday – Friday 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM.
Smugglers Notch State Park
On the other side of Mount Mansfield from Underhill State Park, lies Smuggler’s Notch State Park. Smuggler’s Notch is a narrow pass through the mountain with spectacular 1,000 foot cliffs on either side that was once used as a smuggling route between Vermont and Canada. Today, it is a favorite haunt of nesting peregrine falcons, ice climbers and hikers. The road is passable by vehicles only in summer and is very narrow and winding with many switchbacks and hairpin turns. The Notch is also a favorite of hikers. The most popular trail up the mountain is the Long Trail, which can be accessed from the Notch. Heading north, the Long Trail leads past Elephant’s Head to Sterling Pond, a beautiful and serene mountain lake. As its name implies, the Hell Brook Trail is a shorter, but much steeper route to the summit of Mount Mansfield. Smugglers Notch State Park has tent, RV and lean-to camping with hot showers, and is a favorite for those day hiking and backpacking the Long Trail or it’s side trails. The Park is located minutes from the Village of Stowe. Reservations may be made up to eleven months in advance through the central reservations call center at 1-888-409-7579 Monday – Friday 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM.
The Five Best Vermont State Parks for Biking
Button Bay State Park
When you think about Vermont, most people think about mountains. But, the closer you get to Lake Champlain, the flatter the terrain becomes. And that, combined with panoramic views of the Adirondacks, Green Mountains and big lake, makes for some spectacular bike riding. Button Bay State Park is on the Lake Champlain Bikeway, a 363-mile bike route around Lake Champlain and Richelieu River in Quebec. The primary route is mostly paved, and the entire system includes 992 miles of shorter themed loops. There is minimal traffic along most of them, and the section around Button Bay State Park is especially suited to family riding. Nearby riding destinations include the Lake Champlain Maritime Museum, Basin Harbor Club and D.A.R. state park. The southern Lake Champlain region near Button Bay is rich in Revolutionary War history - you may wish to visit Chimney Point and Mount Independence Historic Sites, the Fort Ticonderoga National Historic Site, or the John Strong Mansion Museum during your stay. Button Bay State Park has tent sites with wide open views of the lake, lean-to’s, a swimming pool and large open air picnic pavilion. The park is named for the button-shaped concretions, (geological formations) found in the sedimentary clay soil of the area. A gorgeous nature trail leads to the point where the nature center is located and interpretive programs are offered daily. Fishing and boating are also popular activities in this park.
Ricker Pond State Park
In the heart of the 26,000 acre Groton State Forest, Ricker Pond State Park was once the location of a working saw mill. The Montpelier-Wells River railroad ran through the park, and the former railroad bed is now part of the Cross-Vermont rail trail,. When completed this will be a 75-mile bike trail between Burlington and Newbury. Ten miles of this trail run through the Groton Forest. With a packed gravel bed and average gradient of less than 2%, it is appropriate for family riding and is easily accessible for people with disabilities. The trail takes you in and out of woodlands and past secluded lakes. Family riders can do an easy out-and-back, where experienced cyclists may choose a day-long loop.
Ricker Pond has tent and lean-to camping, five cabins and a small, fully furnished cottage. Loons are common on this quiet pond. Your campsite registration gets you entry into all of the other Groton parks, too. With its vast network of trails, ponds, lakes, streams and forests, there are a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities to keep the whole family occupied.
North Hero State Park
The Champlain Islands, located between urban Montreal, Quebec and Burlington, VT retain a quiet rural charm. The landscape sports waterside farms, orchards, a vineyard and the longest sand beach in Vermont. Recreational opportunities such as swimming, fishing, paddling and biking abound. In particular, the Champlain Islands are known for their many road biking options. The Lake Champlain Bikeways network includes over 992 miles of theme loops ranging in length from 10 to 60 miles along an array network of quiet country roads. Five loops in the Champlain Islands include “Island Life” (11.6 miles), “Stone Castles” (15.0 miles), “A Trail to Two Beaches” (17.5 miles), “Liquid Elixir” (11.7 miles), and “A legacy of Ancient Stone” (10.1 miles). Two state park campgrounds in “The Islands” give you some options for accommodations. Registration in either one gives you free access to the other and to the day use parks (Knight Point and Alburg Dunes), where swimming beaches, picnic, and parking facilities suggest each as a great place to start, finish, or simply stop for a break when out on a ride. Grand Isle and North Hero State Parks each have tent, rv, (no hookups) and lean-to sites, a campers beach, boat launch, and boat rentals (canoes, kayaks) available. Grand Isle has cabin sites, and interpretive programming, and tends to be a busier, more popular destination park. North Hero is more wooded, generally quieter, and relatively easy to get a site at on short notice. It is also a popular group camping spot, well-suited for bike touring groups.
Lake Carmi State Park
There is more relatively flat terrain, great for bicycle touring, to be found in the farm country of northwestern Vermont’s Franklin County. Lake Carmi State Park on the shores Vemont’s fourth largest lake, is right in the middle of that farm country. Quiet back roads take you past rural landscapes and generations-old family farms, quaint villages, rolling fields and forested woodlots. The park is just a short ride from and fairly near the midpoint of the 26-mile Missisquoi Valley Rail Trail, which runs between the towns of St. Albans and Richford. The packed gravel surface of this old railroad grade makes for an easy ride, and the fact that you’re off the highway with no traffic to worry about makes it all the more enjoyable. Much of the trail follows the beautiful Missisquoi River, known for its spring whitewater, great fishing and downstream heron rookeries. While you’re in the area, you might wish to visit the 6,600 acre Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge, which provides an important stop over, breeding, and feeding area for migrant birds and waterfowl. At Lake Carmi State Park, the paved campground roads are great for kids’ bike riding. There is a large day use beach, boat launch ramps, boat rentals, tent, lean-to, and cabin camping, plus daily interpretive programs. The state park is also the home of the third largest peat bog in Vermont- this natural area is a 140-acre tract of spongy sphagnum moss and unique bog flora.
Emerald Lake State Park
The rugged, steep mountains of southwestern Vermont are a northern extension of the Taconic mountain range, which begins along the western border of Connecticut and the eastern border of lower New York. Once known for its slate and marble production, the geology of this region produces white-rocked cliffs, limestone caves and deep, emerald green lakes and quarries (thus the name Emerald Lake). In southern Vermont, the Taconics are paralleled on the east by the southern end of the Green Mountains. Running between these formidable ranges is the lovely “Valley of Vermont”, where Otter Creek flows north to Lake Champlain, and the Battenkill River, renown for its trout fishing and canoeing and kayaking opportunity, flows south. The vales of the Battenkill, Otter Creek, and Mettawee River and the adjoining corridors of Routes 11, 30 and 7 make for some world class bike routes as well. These routes have spectacular scenery but are best suited for intermediate to advanced riders. Emerald Lake State Park has tent and lean-to camping, a large beach, swimming, fishing, boat rentals, concession stand and hiking trails. The Green Mountain National Forest with its extensive network of trails and remote camping opportunities, the Appalachian Trial, the Battenkill River, the village of Manchester, and Equinox Mountain are all local attractions.
The Five Best Vermont State Parks for Paddling
Burton Island State Park
Accessible only by boat or passenger ferry, Burton Island sits just off of St. Albans Point in the northern reaches of Lake Champlain. Known in the northeast as the “Sixth Great Lake”, Lake Champlain and its islands provide a paddler’s paradise with large expanses of open water, quiet bays and stunning views of both Vermont’s Green Mountains and New York’s Adirondacks. Forming a large part of the border of Vermont, New York and Canada, the Vermont side of Lake Champlain is known as the “West Coast of New England” and is famous for its fabulous sunsets. Burton Island has tent, lean-to and paddlers-only campsites as well as a marina for power and sail boats. Amenities such as hot showers, a store and bistro, nature programs, hiking trails, wood and ice are welcome additions. Burton Island is part of the Lake Champlain Paddler’s Trail, a water trail traversing the length of the lake that provides primitive campsites every 8 to 10 miles and is managed through a public-private partnership committed to protecting the beauty of Lake Champlain and its natural and cultural resources. A warning to novice paddlers: the Lake can change from calm to extremely choppy very quickly so be prepared to change your plans, adjust your route, or wait things out if safety considerations so dictate.
Wilgus State Park
On the other side of the state, the Connecticut River forms a 275-mile border between Vermont and New Hampshire. The largest river in New England, the Connecticut starts from its source in a small lake at the Canadian border and empties into Long Island Sounds 410 miles later. In Vermont, the northern section of the river is clear, cold and wild with abundant trout and class II – III rapids. As it continues southward, the river becomes wider, deeper and more peaceful. Wilgus State Park is situated on a peaceful stretch of the river in Southern Vermont, where paddlers of all abilities will enjoy a single or multi-day float. This park is a well known stop-over spot for those on multi-day river trips. The park has cabins, tent and lean-to campsites as well as a group camping area. Hot showers, wood and ice, canoe and kayak rentals are available. A local outfitter also runs a shuttle service and/or arranges half day and full day river trips from the park.
Waterbury Center State ParkSurrounded by mountains, Waterbury Center State Park is located on a peninsula on 860-acre Waterbury Reservoir, formed when the CCC (Civilian Conservation Corp.) constructed a flood control dam in the 1930’s. This park offers great opportunities for paddling, swimming, fishing and picnicking. There is an interpretive nature trail great for all hiking abilities. While primarily a day use park, there are also a number of primitive boat-to-only campsites along the lake shore, and Little River State Park is located on the opposite shore. The lake has three distinct sections, the smaller of which is inaccessible to powerboats, thus enabling a more remote paddling experience. There are many rocky beaches from which to enjoy an impromptu swim or picnic and it is not unusual to see a bald eagle, beaver, or moose. Canoe, kayak and pedal boat rentals, instruction and classes by Umiak Outdoor Outfitters are available. An added bonus: Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory (and tour) is right down the road.
Camp Plymouth State Park
Located in Vermont’s beautiful Central Lakes region, Camp Plymouth State Park sits on the shores of the long and narrow Echo Lake, near Ludlow, Vermont. The park has large expanses of impeccably maintained lawns shaded by stately mature trees, a large sandy beach, concession stand and canoe, kayak and pedal boat rentals. Because the lake is so long and narrow, it makes for some interesting paddling. Starting from the park beach, paddle south past the park’s beautiful natural areas, then continue south past summer cottages, then back into the woods. The lake narrows to little outlets with current that passes under bridges. If you are a good paddler you can easily navigate these stretches, which makes for a fun mini “river trip” experience. Or, if you’re not quite as accomplished, you can walk your boat through until the lake widens again. Once you pass the camps, you’ll go through a channel full of lily pads, turtles, swallows and herons, before finally ending at the peaceful Lake Rescue. The full round trip will take several hours, but you can make the trip as long or short as you wish by simply turning around when ready.
Camp Plymouth, with a dining hall and two open-air picnic pavilions available for rental, is one of our most popular park wedding venues. The park also has four fully furnished cottages, a group camping area with lean-to’s, and a horse camping area.
Lake Carmi State Park
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 lake supports northern pike, walleyes, and other warm water species. Water from the lake drains north into Quebec's Pike River then into Lake Champlain. Lake Carmi was once much larger. In the thousands of years since the last ice age cleaned it out, the southern end of the original lake has filled in with silt and vegetative matter to create wetland forests and the third largest peat bog in Vermont. While paddling on Lake Carmi, you might see a bald eagle or osprey. As you paddle around the lake you will notice a many and varied display of lakeshore cottages and cabins. Most of the shoreline is privately owned, and except for the park frontage on the south shore and a public launch ramp on the north end, there are few places to stop for a break along the shore.
The state park includes more than two miles of lake frontage on the southeast shore of Lake Carmi. A140-acre bog lies within Lake Carmi State Park and is a designated State Natural Area. Some of the land is under an agricultural lease so the open fields are maintained by farming activity.
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 a nature center, rest rooms and rental boats.
The Five Best Vermont State Parks for Family Camping
Half Moon Pond State Park
When polling families about their favorite camping spot, Half Moon Pond State Park is always at the top of Vermont’s list. Intimate in scale, the park surrounds quiet little Half Moon Pond. The campground offers tent and lean-to camping and there are five cabins. For those seeking more creature comforts, fully furnished Tall Timbers Cottage, with its waterfront location and private boat dock, offers all the amenities of home.
A perfect place for campers seeking a respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life, the park offers a vast trail system including a short walk or, for the more ambitious, a full-day’s hike. Hikers are likely to see a variety of wildlife including white-tailed deer or an occasional moose.
Rowboats, kayaks, canoes and pedal boats are available for rent. Two small, sandy beaches provide locations for sunbathing and swimming. The pond also has excellent fishing, where kids and adults alike can land panfish, yellow perch, largemouth bass and rainbow trout.
Right down the road is Lake Bomoseen State Park, When you are paid camper in one Vermont State Park, you can enter any other for free during your stay. A large lake and beach, nature programs and an old slate quarry make a visit to Bomoseen a fun way to spend a day. If you’re looking for some time spent off the beaten path, a visit to undeveloped Glen Lake, which sits between Half Moon and Bomoseen is the perfect outing. You might not see another person all day while enjoying quiet paddling or perhaps a hike on the trail that leads all around the lake.
If your family likes bikes, be sure to check out the nearby D & H Rail Trail, with two approximately 10-mile sections that follow the old railroad bed of the Delaware and Hudson Railroad, traversing beautiful Vermont countryside, through farm fields, wetlands, and mixed woodlands interlaced with clear-flowing streams.
With sites both on the water's edge and back in the woods, the 52 tent sites, 5 cabins and 11 lean-to sites at Half Moon Pond provide great camping opportunities in a quiet, peaceful environment. There is a play area and hiking trails to High Pond and to Bomoseen State Park.
Brighton State Park
The primary attraction of this general area is its natural beauty: mountains with tree-covered slopes, fast running rivers and streams, and clear lakes. The “Northeast Kingdom”, as it’s called, is especially suited to families looking for a quiet, pure semi-remote Vermont experience.
The campground sits beside the often-photographed and mostly undeveloped Spectacle Pond, where it is common to hear loons calling at night. There are tent sites, lean-to’s and cabins, many on the waterfront. You will also find boat rentals, nature programs, a nature museum, a camper’s beach and even a little wooden amphitheater hidden in the woods. An easy and scenic trail around the lake will take you to “Council Point”, where a forest of sentry-like, mature pine trees creates an inviting grove in which Abnaki leaders were said to hold their meetings.
Just down the road. on Island Pond (really a big lake,) is a large day use area with fantastic swimming, motor boating and a large sandy beach.
Staying at Brighton State Park is like having the best of both worlds – a quiet, family oriented campground, and a large beach bustling with activity.
Jamaica State Park
Yes, there is a Jamaica, Vermont. In fact, it’s not far from Peru, Vermont. But don’t let the name fool you, Jamaica State Park is a family favorite, located just outside the quaint village of Jamaica, surrounded by the rugged and steep southern Green Mountains. Jamaica State Park is located on a bend of the West River, which runs clean and cold in alternating shallow riffles and deep pools, making it a favorite of fishermen and swimmers alike. A rail trail runs along the river and is ideal for family hiking or biking. A foot trail off the rail trail leads to the spectacular Hamilton Falls, ranked by many as one of the most beautiful waterfalls in all of New England. Every spring and fall, on one weekend in late April and late September, there is a water release on the West River from Ball Mountain Dam. This is a semiannual event for many whitewater kayakers and canoeists from all over New England. Jamaica state park has a playground, interpretive programs and pet-friendly tent and lean-to camping May through October.
Grand Isle State Park
As its name implies, Grand Isle State Park is located on the largest island in Lake Champlain. The Lake Champlain Islands are a unique part of Vermont – Its relatively flat landscape and mild temperatures create ideal growing conditions, supporting many family farms, vineyards, and orchards. Framed by the Adirondack Mountains to the west and the Green Mountains to the east, the relatively flat landscape and expansive lake views make for some of the best bike riding in the state. With over 4,000 feet of shoreline on Lake Champlain, and its proximity to both Montreal and Burlington, Grand Isle is a popular destination for many families, some of whom spend their entire vacations here. Swimming, biking and paddling are all popular activities, and the park has daily interpretive programs and special events like concerts and dances. Nearby, you can explore the world’s oldest fossil reef, the nation’s oldest log cabin, a fish hatchery, or the Echo Aquarium and Science Center. The park has tent sites, lean-to’s cabins, boat rentals, volleyball, horseshoes, a nature walk and a play area. Your paid camping registration also gets you free entry into nearby Knight Point, Alburg Dunes, North Hero, Niquette Bay, and Sand Bar State Parks, where day-use facilities include hiking and walking trails, more beaches, and some very scenic picnic sites.
Stillwater State Park
Stillwater State Park is part of the 26,000 acre Groton Forest and is located on the shores of Lake Groton. This area is so special because there are six state parks clustered within the forest, each with its own personality and recreational opportunities. When you are a registered camper at one Vermont park, you receive free entry to all others, so a stay in the forest is truly a vacation destination. Stillwater State Park is known for its great family programs. During your stay you might participate in a bike parade, a pancake breakfast, or you might make “fairy houses” or attend a live raptor program. The park has several campers beaches and provides tent and lean-to camping. Just down the road is the Groton Nature Center where you can learn more about the forest or pick up one of the many forest hiking trails. In fact, the trail network within the forest is one of the best in the state, where you and your family can choose a number of trails suited to your ability and interest. The Cross-Vermont Trail is a multi-use rail trail perfect for a family bike outing. Just down the road from the Nature Center is Boulder Beach State Park with its long sand beach and ideal swimming. Not to be missed is a trip up to Owls Head, an easy hike to a stone tower with an amazing view of the forest – and without a house in sight. Also fun for day excursions are remote Kettle or Osmore Ponds, where you’ll likely hear the call of loons. Oh, and watch for moose – they are common in the forest, and at Stillwater in particular.
The Five Best Vermont State Parks for Remote Camping
Green River Reservoir State Park
Hidden in Vermont’s northern woods, Green River Reservoir is located just north of Morrisville. Green River is only minutes from town, yet is our most secluded park. This 653-acre Reservoir includes about 19 miles of shoreline, one of the longest stretches of undeveloped shorelines in Vermont. The 28 campsites scattered along its banks disappear in the abundant undergrowth. These sites can only be reached by paddling; some of them are more than a mile from the boat launch. All campsites have limited facilities including a fire ring with a cooking grate and an outhouse nearby. Carry-in/carry-out and Leave No Trace camping is the rule of the road here. Even on “crowded” holiday weekends, the lake and shoreline seem to “gobble up” boats and visitors, making for a serene paddling experience at most any time of year. However, once the parking lot is full, no further visitors are permitted into the park. Reservations are accepted beginning May 1st of each year by calling the park directly at 802-888-1349. Groups consisting of 8 people or more must apply for a special permit. Firewood is available at the park’s contact station. In order to maintain the special personality of this park, groups of 8 people or more can only camp with special permit, park staff limits the number of visitors, and rotates open sites each season.
Kettle Pond State Park
Tucked away in the Groton State Forest, Kettle Pond State Park is an interesting mix of group and remote camping. On the southern end of the lake is a group camping area consisting of five clusters of five lean-to’s (25 total) along with composting toilets and a play area. This location is perfect for scout and school groups or just of bunch of families who want to camp together. Across the lake are five remote lean-to’s and one remote tent site. The only way to these sites is by paddling or hiking in. Paddlers must portage from the parking area approximately a quarter mile on a trail to reach the put-in at water’s edge. Since the group area is not frequently used, and the quarter mile portage discourages casual paddlers, it is not unusual to find yourself alone on Kettle Pond; just you and the loons, gorgeous views and quiet woods. If you’d rather hike into your lean-to a 3-mile trail surrounds the pond and offers campers and hikers a relaxing stroll with numerous excursions to the water. This 104-acre pond is home to an array of fish including rainbow trout, yellow perch and small mouth bass, so make sure to bring along your fishing pole. Reservations can be made up to eleven months in advance by calling the Vermont State Parks central reservation line at 1-888-409-7579 Monday – Friday 9 am – 4 pm.
Osmore Pond State Park
Accessible through New Discovery State Park, in Groton Forest, Osmore Pond, is a 48-acre undeveloped, no motors permitted pond. The pond is off in a quiet corner of New Discovery State Park. Back in the 1930’s the CCC (Civilian Conservation Corps) built a stone and log picnic pavilion along the shore as well as several charming and secluded “picnic bowers”, each with their own stone fireplaces built in the same era. On the opposite side of the pond there are 4 remote lean-to sites, each with a fireplace and picnic table. They are accessible by hiking or boating, and for those without a boat, rowboats or canoes are available by the hour or with a “boat to a remote” package deal. Since the pond is a little off the beaten track the experience is serene yet accessible enough to make a great first remote camping experience, especially for families with children. Hiking trails through Groton Forest are right outside your “door”, and include trails to Big Deer, Little Deer, Hosmore Brook and Coldwater Brook. Access to the other Groton Forest for no extra charge comes with your stay.
Woods Island State Park
Accessible only by boat and located 2 ½ miles from the launch at Kill Kare State Park, Woods Island is located in St. Albans Bay in the northern reaches of Lake Champlain. A mile long by a quarter-mile wide, 125-acre Woods Island is provides unique habitat for a rich variety of plant life including many species that are rare or threatened in Vermont. This isolated island was once intended to be a corporate retreat location and the remnants of an abandoned air-strip can still be seen on the quarter mile long trail which bisects the park. The island’s five campsites are situated approximately equidistant around the two-mile shoreline, and are connected by a trail system. There are no docks, so you’ll have to either beach your boat or anchor off. The beach tends to be fairly rocky, except for a point along the east shore, from which the walk to campsites is between one quarter and three quarters of a mile. This gives you great privacy, but it also means you’re going to have to walk and carry your own gear from wherever you came ashore. You shouldn’t bring anything you’re not prepared to carry in and carry out. Sanitary facilities are minimal, and there is no potable water supply. Each campsite does have a picnic bench, fire ring and nearby privy. The reward is a private island getaway in Lake Champlain with great swimming, fishing, boating and unparalleled sunsets.
Knight Island State Park
Another remote camping option in Lake Champlain is Knight Island. This 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. Knight Island can be accessed by a demanding eight-mile, open water paddle from North Hero State Park, or a six-mile open water crossing from Kill Kare State Park.
The shortest paddle is from North Hero village (2 miles) where people can park (for a nominal fee) at Hero's Welcome. Alternatively, Knight Island can be reached by ferry with prior reservations by calling Burton Island State Park at 802-524-6353. The island’s seven campsites, six of them with rustic log lean-tos, are situated approximately equidistant around the 2 ½- mile shoreline, and are connected by a trail system. If you arrive by ferry, it’s anywhere from 1/3 of mile to a mile to the campsite from the dock at the ranger’s residence. Sanitary facilities are minimal, and there is no potable water supply. Each campsite does have a picnic bench, fire ring and nearby privy.
The Five Best Vermont State Parks for Nature Programs
Jamaica State Park
On the shores of the rippling West River, you can join a park interpreter and dip your feet in a waterway that has provided transportation for people and animals since the beginning of time. Spend two guided hours exploring the miniature creatures that dwell in the rocky pools. Or perhaps you would like to catch butterflies, take a guided hike to an expansive viewpoint or hear stories beside a roaring campfire instead. These are all possibilities thanks to the park interpreter at Jamaica State Park, who lives on site in a small cabin and offers a variety of programs for all ages. If you prefer to be self-guided, feel free to visit the Nature Center on your own and explore the natural and cultural history of the area at your own pace with interactive displays and interesting artifacts.
Lake Carmi State Park
In the center of beautiful Lake Carmi State Park lies an amazing and mysterious peat bog natural area with secrets that can be unveiled to you by a park interpreter. Join a two hour program to hike and explore the world of moss, cotton grass, and carnivorous plants of the bog. You can also choose to take a guided hike into the forest to discover the history of the forested landscape, catch salamanders, or create a water bottle whirligig craft as a family. If you have questions about interesting things you spot during your trip to Lake Carmi, stop by the Nature Center and have a chat with the interpreter, peruse the library of field guides, or investigate the interactive displays.
Lake St. Catherine State Park
Would your children like to spend an hour building mysterious creatures that have special adaptations to survive in a harsh wilderness setting? Or, would you like to hone up on your birding skills or explore some of the largest trees in Vermont? While you are having a relaxing camping trip at Lake St Catherine State Park, explore your surroundings and have fun as a family at some of the many programs offered by a park interpreter. New programs are offered weekly from making ice cream to sunset lake paddles. Learn new skills and have lots of fun with the variety of programs offered weekly at Lake St Catherine.
Little River State Park
Visiting Little River is more than a relaxing camping trip with family when you attend park interpretive programs. Spend two hours exploring the geology and wildlife of beautiful Waterbury Reservoir while you learn how to paddle a kayak. Take a mysterious night ghost hike (flashlights required) to Ricker Cemetery and through the remains of an historic hill farm community. On rainy days, explore the Nature Museum and learn to make plaster tracks of wildlife footprints. Supplement your camping adventures at Little River by attending a fun and interesting program with the park interpreter.
Burton Island State Park
Programs at Burton Island are an adventure thanks to the park interpreter who plans all sorts of interesting activities that vary each week for visitors of all ages. You can become shipwrecked on a beach and survive on what you can find, or spend a few hours building a pirate ship to launch in an armada. Or, explore on your own and supplement your trip to Burton Island with a visit to the Nature Center to discover exhibits on island plant and animal life and the history of Lake Champlain.
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