It is with great joy that we kick off Vermont State Park's 97th season. As we navigate through the tail end of the pandemic we know that peoples' collective desire to be outside is perhaps greater than ever. We have been working extremely hard to get ready and we cannot wait to see you. Last year, despite a late start and restrictions in what we could offer, our parks and forest trails were incredibly popular. This season, while closely adhering to Governor Scott's Vermont Forward Plan, Vermont State Parks will be close to fully operational.
The foundation of what makes Vermont State Parks so special is their combination of breathtaking locations and the fun and community building that happens inside them. Much of what the parks offer is made possible by the incredible team of park managers, staff and volunteers who join us each season to operate them. This team consists of folks who come from all over the country, and many Vermonters too. Their wide range of backgrounds and experience, along with their great passion and dedication for the work they do, energizes every park.
When you visit, take a moment to say "hi" and thank them. We’re grateful for their skill and expertise, and our team is a big part of what makes our parks so exceptional.
I know they would love to see you to help you enjoy the great outdoors and unplug in their park.
Warm regards,
Nate McKeen, Director of State Parks
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Our operations plans for 2021 have been finalized to best serve our visitors and are tied directly to the Vermont Forward plan for re-opening. The plan outlines a graduated process through May, June and culminating July 5th with full opening.
Universal Guidance remains a key component of the Vermont Forward Plan and has informed the parks 2021 operations plan. To view the full guidance, head to ACCD’s Universal Guidance page.
Parks will be offering:
- Day use
- Camping, cabin, and cottage rentals
- Boat rentals and concessions at select parks
- Interpretive programming and concerts
- Firewood and ice sales at parks with campgrounds
- Open-air pavilion rentals
- Playground equipment
To learn more about what you can expect as a park visitor, please head to our COVID-19 Updates to view our 2021 Operating Plan.
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Our new and improved reservations system allows you to search for sites that will fit your trailer or RV?
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Visitor Programming Returns |
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We have interpreters at 17 state parks around Vermont:
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Above: An interpreter demonstrates how to build a solar still for drinking water (photo previous year). - J. Clarke
We are excited to announce the return of visitor programming for the 2021 season in Vermont State Parks!
After a COVID-19 hiatus, we have a fully staffed interpretive team and they are planning fun, hands-on, interesting programming for you and your friends and family. Some popular programs you can enjoy this year are guided nature walks, wildflower explorations, tree identification studies, amphibian hunts, wildlife tracking, storytelling, and campfire programs (among many other fun programs).
You can get a closer look at your favorite park, visit places you would normally not get to see, or learn more about a new park you are visiting for the first time with help from an interpreter. Look for interpretive programs popping up in our events calendar or by visiting the interpreter when you arrive at the park.
Rebecca Roy, Parks Interpretive Program Manager
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Can't wait for a program? |
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Previous programs include:
Above: Park Interpretive Program Manager Rebecca Roy shows a beech bud as a 'Sign of Spring' at Waterbury Center State Park.
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“Play is our brain’s favorite way of learning.” - Diane Ackerman
Emerald Lake State Park is home to the newest playground in Vermont State Parks. The Town of Dorset generously donated the slide and bars while park staff installed them for use in the 2021 season! We are grateful for another amazing partnership with the town. Thank you!
To the left: A newly installed slide and swing set .
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Challenges Include:
- Watching a meteor shower
- Writing a Haiku or other nature poetry
- Planting a native tree
- Cooking on a campfire
- And many more!
Every week there are bonus activities for extra points!
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Above: Venture Vermont Champions hike a summit.
The 2021 challenge officially kicked off on April 15th. Every year, families from all over Vermont participate in this fun outdoor scavenger hunt, earning points while taking part in exciting outdoor activities like hiking, swimming, fishing, identifying plants, and more. Be sure to look out for Bonus Venture Vermont weekly activities on our website.
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FREE Park Entry All Weekend |
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Vermont Days is an opportunity to celebrate the arrival of summer and to explore Vermont’s fishing, state parks and historic culture. On June 12-13, 2021, all Vermont State Park day-use areas and select state-owned Historic Sites will be open at no charge. Saturday is free fishing day, the one day of the summer when anyone can fish in Vermont without a license. It’s also a day for history: the Vermont History Museum in Montpelier will offer free admission on Saturday, June 12.
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With your help, Vermont Parks Forever, the nonprofit foundation for Vermont State Parks, is raising awareness and funds to remove barriers and help even more Vermonters enjoy a visit to one of the 55 state parks!
Spending time in nature is important for everyone, and since 2016, Vermont Parks Forever has provided free day passes to help those who otherwise would not have the chance to experience the state parks. Free passes given to foster families, essential workers, youth programs, and Vermonters with mobility impairments, ensure the natural relief a day in the parks can bring. Vermont’s state parks are for everyone and together we can promote a more equitable outdoor experience!
Interested in helping us further this good work?
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Thank you for reading the official newsletter of Vermont State Parks!
"In nature, nothing is perfect and everything is perfect. Trees can be contorted, bent in weird ways, and they're still beautiful." ― Alice Walker
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