Each Vermont state park is unique, and each one is a wonderful place to spend the day (or night) with friends and family. While some parks are more popular than others, we thought we'd visit some of our favorites that don't seem as well known to most people. Let's share our love for them and check out these lesser-known state parks in Vermont. Which is your favorite?

1. Niquette Bay State Park, Colchester

This State Park was once used for farmland and is now heavily forested. You'll love checking out all the interesting tree roots and coming across the occasional cairns while hiking around the park. You'll also love the 60-foot limestone cliffs making up strikingly dramatic vistas.

2. Branbury State Park, Salisbury

Enjoy seeing Lake Dunmore from one of their pedal boats, canoes, or kayaks, which are available for rent. Kids love the playground, and everyone can enjoy the clean and sandy beach. Bring some food for grilling and make whole weekend of your time spent at Branbury State Park.

3. Lowell Lake State Park, Londonderry

While this can be a popular spot among locals, we recommend taking the trip to check it out. There is great birdwatching in the area, water activities, and an easy hike around the lake. History buffs will love checking out the Revolutionary War-era cemetery, too.

4. Green River Reservoir State Park, Hyde Park

If it's paddling and solitude you seek, look no further than the Green River Reservoir State Park. This park is nature at its best and offers remote camping sites that are only reachable by boat. It seems to give a whole new meaning to the word "secluded".

5. Kill Kare State Park, Saint Albans

This lovely park was formerly a summer camp for boys and it's in a stunning spot! You can take the Island Runner Ferry over to Burton Island State Park for even more to see and do when you're done here. With Lake Champlain surrounding it on three sides, it's the perfect place to cool down in the water or rent a boat to explore with.

6. Taconic Ramble State Park, Hubbardton

The Taconic Ramble State Park is one of Vermont's newest state parks, and you're going to love it! After all, it's not every day you see a Japanese garden in the Green Mountain State!

7. Kingsland Bay State Park, Ferrisburgh

You'll love the 1790 house said to be built with stones from Fort Ticonderoga nestled in this beautiful park. With a stunning Lake Champlain backdrop, it's no wonder why it's a such popular spot for weddings. There are picnic areas, hikes, and historic buildings here for all to enjoy.

8. Seyon Lodge State Park, Groton

This area, located within the Groton State Forest, is one of Vermont's best-kept secrets. You can spend the night in a charming and rustic lodge within the park to truly get away from it all at this spot on Noyes Pond.

9. Woodford State Park, Bennington

If it's bragging rights you're looking for, try camping at Woodford State Park. Its campground has the highest elevation of any park in Vermont. There are also plenty of fun, hands-on activities through the Park Interpreter program.

These lesser-known state parks in Vermont are truly incredible and definitely worth a visit or two. For another of our favorite spots, don't miss this Vermont park with a gorgeous emerald lake.