Vermont - Southern

Emerald Lake State Park
65 Emerald Lake Lane
East Dorset, VT  05253
Phone: 802-362-1655

Season: Memorial Day Weekend - Columbus Day Weekend

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The 430-acre park is located along the side of Dorset Mountain with Emerald Lake, the head waters of Otter Creek, at its base. There is a small beach with snack bar and boat rental facilities. A hillside picnic area and lakeside picnic tables are available. An open picnic shelter pavilion can be reserved for gatherings. Trails throughout the park and nearby provide great hiking opportunities. Swimming, fishing, and boating (no motors) are popular in the lake. Open late May to early October

Lake Shaftsbury State Park
262 Shaftsbury State Park Road (Route 7A)
Shaftsbury, VT  05262
Phone: 802-375-9978

Season: Memorial Day Weekend - Labor Day Weekend

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This state park is on an 84-acre parcel surrounding the small but picturesque Lake Shaftsbury. There is a developed beach, play area, and picnic area. An open picnic shelter/pavilion is available for gatherings. The snack bar concession has rental rowboats, paddle boats, and canoes. Open late May to early September.

Swimming Holes

Swimming holes can be found in or near rock quarries, streams, gorges, and waterfalls. Most are pristine, uncrowded, and surrounded by beautiful woods and forests. For details, see the web site www.SwimmingHoles.info