Views at 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.

Views at 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.

Views at 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.

Views at 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.