Vermont State Parks

Every wonder what goes on when you do not see the work happening? Here are two stories from some of this years trail work. Boardwalk  The new Lake Carmi boardwalk replaces a small loop of near-ground level boards that were slippery, uneven and made for a great temptation to roam on foot across the bog trampling sensitive plant life.  The new boardwalk is fully accessible to all, elevates above the bog for improved views and has less impact on plants and wildlife.  It provides a great learning opportunity as well since there are good views of plants and animals and it can support groups of all abilities out to 231’ into the bog.  We plan on adding an interpretive sign next summer.  This past August the state trail crew worked for two weeks on the project.  The first week they worked with a contractor who instructed the crew with how to drive the helical piers and then how to go about making a level, wooden surface with framing and decking.  This ...

Camp Plymouth Staff Each year four parks, representing each geographical region in  Vermont, are presented with the Park of the  Year Award. The purpose of the program is to acknowledge exemplary accomplishments of the parks field staff, as well as for the enhancement of public service – to make the parks a better, more enjoyable place to recreate. Competition is fierce and award recipients receive the right to display the coveted "Park of the Year" banner the following season. This year's winners are Camp Plymouth , Half Moon , Lake Carmi and Maidstone . Congrats to all for your fantastic work! Half Moon Staff      Lake Carmi Staff  Maidstone Staff

Grand Isle : High and dry, this popular park on Lake Champlain is open for business! What’s to love about Grand Isle State Park ? • Located on the shores of Lake Champlain • 150 campsites including tent/RV sites and leantos • 4 cabins • Nature center, volleyball, horseshoes, a nature walk, lake access, boat rentals • Nature programs, events and entertainment • Boating, fishing, biking, hiking, and swimming • New this year: construction of another cabin and a renovated bath house • Nearby: Burlington, St. Albans, Champlain Islands, restaurants, theaters, and museums For more information: http://www.vtstateparks.com/htm/grandisle.htm Little River : A park rich in history, water, and wildlife What’s to Love About Little River State Park ? • Located along the shores of the Waterbury Reservoir – great views on top of the dam • Historic remnants – old sawmills, cemeteries, town roads, bridges, and cellar holes • Self guided history and nature trails along with other hiking...

Many of the flowers you see in the northwestern state parks are the product of a surprising source, the flower program at the Northwest State Correctional Facility. This women-only facility operates a flower program as part of their rehabilitation, which supplies some of Vermont State Parks with beautiful blooms. John Cross, the automotive teacher at the Community High School located in the prison, has helped to run the program for six years, though it was his son, Paul, who first thought of the idea. Paul, on staff at Grand Isle State Park , put his father's gardening program and the park's need for low-budget plants together, essentially creating the program that exists today. The parks appreciate the local flower supply and cost savings, and the women in the program learn about and enjoy growing plants from seed. Plus, they get to do gardening before the snow has fully melted! John believes that in order for the participants to succeed in their rehabilitation, ...

Lake Carmi State Park and Crystal's Snack Bar (located in the park) are excited to invite all military personnel (active, reserve, or national guard) to Military Appreciation Day at Lake Carmi State Park on Sunday, August 1, 2010. Show your military ID (active or retired) and receive FREE entry into the park for the day. Plus, your children ages 10 and under are FREE too! Crystal's Snack Bar would like to also treat the men and women of the armed forces with 25% off anything on their menu! Bring the family to enjoy a day at the beach and fun activities like horse shoes, basketball, volleyball, and swimming! A rain date for this event is scheduled for August 8th.