Vermont and New Hampshire are both known for their vast networks of state parks. Prized for their natural beauty and family-friendly fun, these state parks are now open for the summer season and make a popular destination for daytime adventures, family vacations, and camping trips.

If you live in the area or are within traveling distance, it’s worth giving one of these state parks a visit. While each park offers its own special character and charm, we’ve chosen three of them for you to consider visiting this summer. If it’s too hard to choose, don’t feel guilty visiting all three, or more!

 

Silver Lake State Park – Barnard, Vermont

Located at 20 State Park Beach Road in Barnard, Silver Lake State Park is a nearby spot where you can enjoy the outdoors in a variety of ways. While the lake and sandy beach are open to swimmers, fishers, and boaters, this state park also offers camping, picnicking, nature programs, volleyball, and horseshoes.

For campers, Silver Lake State Park has 39 tent/RV sites and seven lean-to sites available to rent. RV/tent fees cost $20 (per day) for Vermont residents and $28 for nonresidents; lean-to sites cost $30 and $38; and Burton Island lean-to sites cost $40 and $50, with additional small fees for extra guests and pets (including an $8 site reservation fee).

Picnicking is allowed throughout the park and there are several picnic tables for public use. The picnic pavilion (which can hold up to 100 people) can be rented for large groups. For nature programs, call Silver Lake to find out what the current offerings are at (802) 234-9451.

Silver Lake State Park is open from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend, with daily hours of 10 am to sunset. For day use, entry to the park costs $5 for adults ages 14 and up, $2 for children ages 4 to 13, and is free for children ages 0 to 3.

 

Bear Brook State Park – Allenstown, New Hampshire

Bear Brook State Park in Allenstown is New Hampshire’s largest developed state park. This 10,000-plus acre state park offers camping, hiking, biking, archery, swimming, fishing, equestrian trails, and more.

Located at 61 Deerfield Road in Allenstown, Bear Brook State Park is always open for recreation unless otherwise posted. New Hampshire residents can get in for $4, $2 for ages 6 to 17, and free for ages 5 and under and 65 and older.

The park has 101 campground sites, as well as cabins available for rent. A variety of sites are available, including RV sites, tent sites, horse sites, boat sites, and more. Hiking at Bear Brook State Park is another popular way that guests pass the time. Aspiring or experienced archers can also use the park’s two archery ranges.

 

Coolidge State Park – Plymouth, Vermont

You’ll find Coolidge State Park at 855 Coolidge State Park Road in Plymouth, Vermont. In season from Memorial Day weekend to the second Monday in October and open from 10 am to sunset, Coolidge State Park is another popular Vermont destination for locals and visitors alike.

At Coolidge State Park, you can partake in a few different outdoor activities, such as camping, picnicking, hiking, mountain biking, and more. The park has 26 tent/RV sites and 36 lean-to sites and has plenty of trails to explore. Campers should reserve a site online prior to planning their trip.

Entry fees to the park vary from free to $5 and season passes and group rates are available.