Every once in a while we go somewhere and wonder “why isn’t everyone talking about this place?” Well, there are a few state parks to visit in Vermont that make us wonder the same thing. After all, they’re filled with things to do, the views are amazing, and lucky for us we can even spend the night in many of them. Let’s take a look at a few under-appreciated state parks in Vermont that we think should have a lot of love.

1. Thetford Hill State Park
05075, Thetford Center, VT 05075, USA
Flickr/Ken Lund
If you are a cross country runner, the Thetford Hill State Park is one of the best state parks to visit in Vermont to go running! Don't miss the sweeping views from Sunset Hill - it's perfect for a picnic so plan to bring one.

Visit the web page for more information.
2. Big Deer State Park
1467 Boulder Beach Rd, Groton, VT 05046, USA
Flickr/chipmunk_1
Mountain bikers and horseback riders love the 17 miles of hiking trails in Vermont that you'll find here as well as over 20 miles of gravel roads and multi-use trails. You'll find this park located within the Groton State Forest.

Visit the web page for more information.
3. Molly Stark State Park
705 VT-9, Wilmington, VT 05363, USA
Flickr/chipmunk_1
This park might be slightly better known, but not everyone has seen it in person. Enjoy the sweeping views of lush greens from the fire tower at the Molly Stark State Park in Southern Vermont.

Visit the web page for more information.
4. Stillwater State Park
44 Stillwater Rd, Groton, VT 05046, USA
Yelp/Jude V
Many people are familiar with the view from Owl's Head Lookout in Groton, but there is so much more to explore at the Stillwater State Park.

Visit the web page for more information.
5. Wilgus State Park
3985 Connecticut River Rd, Springfield, VT 05156, USA
Tripadvisor/46oceangirl
The canoeing here is simply incredible! That fact alone makes this one of the best state parks to visit in Vermont. Picturesque and serene, the Wilgus State Park in Weathersfield is the perfect place to relax and unwind.

Visit the web page for more information.

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6. Jamaica State Park
48 Salmon Hole Ln, Jamaica, VT 05343, USA
Flickr/jar [o]
This park will bring out the inner explorer in you. There is an old railroad track that is a popular hike here, as well as a trek to Hamilton Falls, which is located about one mile up Cobb Brook. As one of the best parks in Vermont, consider camping here overnight to maximize your time.

Read our previous post to learn more about camping at Jamaica State Park.
7. Branbury State Park
3570 Lake Dunmore Rd, Salisbury, VT 05769, USA
Tripadvisor/Aimee H
Along with a 1,000-foot natural sandy beach, you'll find hiking trails to scenic vistas, waterfalls, caves, mountain lakes, and streams. And if you're looking for some of the best hiking trails in Vermont, there are plenty of outstanding hiking opportunities close by. This park in Brandon has it all!

Visit the web page for more information.
8. Knight Island State Park
North Hero, VT 05474, USA
Yelp/Peter F
Many people know of Burton State Park, but this park located on an island in North Hero shouldn't be missed. If you don't have a boat to get here, you'll have to arrange for a water taxi.

Read our previous coverage to learn more about Knight Island State Park.
9. Lowell Lake State Park
260 Ice House Rd, Londonderry, VT 05148, USA
Tripadvisor/MAAGR
Everyone loves the 3.5-mile loop around the gorgeous lake found within one of the best state parks in Vermont. Hiking is also incredible here as well, and one even leads to a historic cemetery.

You can read about the cemetery hike at Lowell Lake State Park in our previous coverage.
10. Niquette Bay State Park
274 Raymond Rd, Colchester, VT 05446, USA
Flickr/Rich
As you can see, the views are absolutely stunning at the Niquette Bay State Park in Colchester. Who would have thought that one of the most beautiful state parks to visit in Vermont would be located so close to busy towns?

Read our previous coverage for more information on Niquette Bay State Park.

Do you know of any other state parks to visit in Vermont? Tell us in the comments! Want another to check out? Check out this little-known State Park in Vermont that will be your new favorite Summer destination.

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State Parks To Visit In Vermont

Melissa M. | February 10, 2022

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