Emerald Lake State Park

Introduction of Emerald Lake State Park

Emerald Lake State Park in Vermont may not sound like much, but once you see how it is surrounded by the lush wooded Green and Taconic Mountains, you’ll realise it has the outdoor fix you’ve been looking for.

The 20-acre Emerald Lake is strikingly green from the air. It is a popular swimming spot in the summer, as well as a great paddling and fishing spot due to the lack of motorised boats.

The lake is distinguished by a small wooded island, which provides an interesting spot for boaters and paddleboarders to explore. In season, the Park rents canoes, kayaks, and pedal boats, and there is a large sandy swimming area on the Lake’s north shore. Near the parking area, there is a snack shop, restrooms, and showers.

The lake is large enough for everyone to have a good time, and fishermen can find quiet spots to catch a bite even when the kids are splashing around on the beach. This stocked lake is quite deep in places and is home to a variety of fish and wildlife.

The region has a long history of marble quarries, and the State Park property was once part of a larger mining operation. Many buildings in the nearby town are made of this marble, as are massive quarry remnants in the surrounding mountains.

There are three camping loops with a variety of open campsites and specially built tent lean-to structures. There are no hookups, but there is space for smaller trailers and RVs, and a dump station is available.

Emerald Lake State Park Camping

There are 67 tent and RV campsites available, but no hookups. Toilets, hot showers, drinking water, and a dump station are available. Many of the locations have filtered views of the water, and each loop is unique. The loop near the swim area is the first to fill up. Reservations are still taken over the phone.

Emerald Lake State Park Activities

Fishing

This small lake has a wide range of fishing opportunities. There are numerous shore spots to explore, as well as limitless opportunities for fishermen on the water. The island is well-known for its submerged logs and rock ledges. Warm-water species such as yellow perch, smallmouth bass, northern pike, and others will put your tackle box to the test.

Hiking

The trails surrounding Emerald Lake are quite special. The lakeshore is lined with giant hemlock trees and large smooth boulders, and miles of park trails on both sides of the highway provide views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. There are several short trails that can be connected for a leisurely half-day of exploration.

Swimming

Emerald Lake is a popular swimming destination. A massive sandy beach stretches far into the water. It doesn’t get too deep quickly, making it a safe wading area for the kids. There are restrooms and showers nearby, as well as a snack bar and boat rental. The teenagers enjoy swimming on the island and swinging on the rope swing nearby.

Paddling and Boat Rentals

Emerald Lake’s varying shoreline and unique island make it an excellent place to paddle. This non-motorized lake is ideal for canoes, kayaks, row boats, and pedal boats, all of which are available for rent at the park swim area. The water is often clear enough to see the fish swimming beneath, and there is always wildlife on the shore.

Emerald Lake State Park Location

The campground is built on a steep hillside, resulting in drop-offs at some of the sites that could be dangerous for small children. The trees are large and dense, and they may interfere with antennas, slide-outs, and awnings. When calling to reserve a site, be sure to specify your equipment.

Parking

Parking is available

Public Transport

Public Transport is not available