Vermont State Parks

MONTPELIER - October 28, 2015 - Gov. Peter Shumlin today announced a milestone in Vermont State Park visitation. So far this year, more than 1 million people have visited state parks. That hasn’t happened in 27 years and has only occurred four other times over the 91 year history of the park system. “We are all pleased that so many Vermonters and guests are realizing the treasures we have in our wonderful park system,” Gov. Shumlin said. “Outdoor recreation is such an important part of Vermont’s culture and economy and state parks offer a way for all of us to enjoy Vermont’s best.” The state will receive an estimated $6.1 million in direct revenue from this year’s visitation. The statewide economic impact from those visits is about $88 million. State Park attendance has been growing steadily over the last several years. Commissioner Michael Snyder of the Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation attributes the success to a number of factors. “Our parks program staff do an ...

It may be getting chillier outside, but Vermont State Parks  are still open during the off-season. However, before you head into the woods during this time of year, keep in mind that hunting season may be in progress. Hunting is an annual tradition for Vermonters and an important part of the state’s cultural heritage. Vermont was the first state to adopt constitutional language that protects your right to hunt, and many people view hunting as a way to source their meat locally as well as build a relationship with the land. Hunting is allowed on all state lands, including State Parks, during the off-season. Please come and visit the parks, but remember to be cautious in the woods. Dress in blaze orange (dogs, too) and make yourself heard! You may be less likely to run into hunters at parks that keep their gates closed, such as Mt. Philo State Park in Ferrisburgh, Molly Stark State Park in Wilmington, Townshend State Park in Townshend, and Thetford Hill State Park in Sprin...

It's that time of year again! Put on your brave face and try not to get scared out of your pants at the Quechee State Park Haunted Campground ...it's even bigger and better this year, and, as always, is kept going by your donations. This year, the theme for our Haunted Trail is "Twisted Wizard of Oz," which will be running from 5pm-9:30pm on Saturday, October 17th at Quechee State Park . Other activities will begin earlier though, in the Quechee Gorge Village . We take reservations for walk times, and allow groups of 6-10 - please arrive about 15 minutes prior to your walk time to get a chance to meet the Wizard himself...if you've got little ones with you, though, we recommend scheduling for the early time slots, as things naturally get a bit scarier once the sun sets. Call us to reserve: 802-295-2990. Schedule of Events: Start at the Quechee Gorge Village shops at 3 pm and ride the Haunted Train, visit the businesses to trick or treat, and listen ...