Best Dog Beaches in Vermont

Crystal Lake State Park is nestled in Barton, Vermont, offering a serene and picturesque destination for visitors. This day-use state park is built around the glacial Crystal Lake, which stretches about three miles long and has depths of over 100 feet in some places
. The park features a large sandy beach suitable for swimming, picnic areas, and expansive lawns, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and recreation.
The surroundings are complemented by beautiful foliage on the nearby hills, providing a vibrant backdrop for outdoor activities.

Sand Bar State Park is a picturesque 15-acre park located on the eastern shore of Lake Champlain in Milton, Vermont. It is named after the natural sandbar that stretches between the mainland and South Hero Island, created by sediment from the Lamoille River over thousands of years. The park offers a 2,000-foot sandy beach, ideal for swimming, especially for children due to its shallow waters. Established in 1933, it features a historic stone bathhouse built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). The park is open from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend, offering a variety of activities like boating, fishing, and picnicking in a well-maintained environment.

The park's setting is enhanced by its proximity to the 1,000-acre Sand Bar Wildlife Refuge, which provides habitat for waterfowl and other wildlife. The shallow waters and long sandy beach make it a popular destination for families and day-use visitors. The park's facilities include picnic areas, volleyball courts, and a playground, ensuring there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Sand Bar State Park is not only a recreational gem but also a historically significant site, with its CCC-built structures listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This blend of natural beauty and historical significance makes it a unique and appealing destination for visitors.

Starr Farm Beach, located in the north end of Burlington, Vermont, offers a serene and picturesque setting along Lake Champlain. Originally part of Judge Leavenworth's Farm, it was developed by John J. Flynn as a summer home colony for local families. The area is known for its beautiful lake views and is a popular spot for summer activities. The nearby Starr Farm Park provides additional amenities like athletic fields and a dog park, enhancing the overall recreational experience.
The beach itself offers easy access to swimming and other water activities, making it a great spot for families and those looking to enjoy the outdoors. The surrounding community features a mix of summer homes and year-round residences, contributing to a lively yet peaceful atmosphere.
With its rich history and natural beauty, Starr Farm Beach is a beloved destination for both locals and visitors alike.

Niquette Bay State Park, located in Colchester, Vermont, is a serene 584-acre day-use park nestled along the shores of Lake Champlain. It offers a tranquil escape with activities such as swimming, fishing, hiking, and wildlife watching. The park features a sandy beach and several hiking trails that provide stunning views of Malletts Bay and the surrounding landscape. Its unique terrain includes sheer cliffs and scenic ridges, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts. The park is about 20 minutes from downtown Burlington, offering a peaceful retreat from urban life.
The park's history dates back to the 1800s when much of the land was used for farming and pasturing. Today, it is predominantly forested, with a brook that has carved a ravine over time, contributing to the formation of the sandy beach. The park operates from May 3 to October 19, with day-use hours from 8 am to sunset.
Niquette Bay is pet-friendly, allowing pets on-leash throughout the park except for the sand beach, where they can swim at Calm Cove.

Waterbury Center State Park is a picturesque 90-acre day-use park located on the shores of the 850-acre Waterbury Reservoir in Vermont. It offers a serene escape with its swimming beach, picnic areas, and a universally accessible nature trail. The park is part of the Mount Mansfield State Forest and provides a variety of recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and hiking. The reservoir itself was created in the 1930s as a flood control project and is now a popular spot for water sports and relaxation.

The park's proximity to Waterbury village allows visitors to enjoy local cuisine and attractions, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both outdoor adventure and cultural experiences. Waterbury is renowned for its food scene, featuring farm-to-table restaurants and local breweries.

With its natural beauty and accessibility, Waterbury Center State Park is a must-visit for anyone exploring Vermont's central region.

St. Albans Bay Town Park is a vibrant community recreation space located in St. Albans, Vermont, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The park features a stunning stone bath house built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1933, making it a fascinating spot for both locals and visitors. Situated on the shores of Lake Champlain, it provides a picturesque setting for various events and activities throughout the year. The area is also known for its rich history, having evolved from a bustling waterfront to a community-focused park.
The park's proximity to Lake Champlain offers breathtaking views and opportunities for water activities. It is a central part of the community, hosting events like farmers' markets and music festivals, which contribute to its lively atmosphere.
St. Albans Bay Town Park is an excellent destination for those seeking a mix of relaxation, recreation, and cultural experiences in a scenic Vermont setting.

Lake St. Catherine State Park is nestled in Poultney, Vermont, offering a serene escape with its picturesque lake and diverse recreational activities. The park spans 117 acres and features two sandy beaches, a nature center, and a large grassy field with a children's playground. It is a popular destination for both campers and day-use visitors, providing opportunities for swimming, boating, fishing, and hiking. The lake itself is 852 acres, with a maximum depth of 68 feet, making it an ideal spot for fishing various species like trout and bass.
The park's history dates back to its opening in 1953 as a picnic and swimming area, evolving over time to include a campground with tent/RV sites and lean-to options. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of Birdseye Mountain and explore the Big Trees of Lake St. Catherine through a universally accessible nature trail.
The park's season runs from the Friday of Memorial Day Weekend to the second Monday in October, offering a range of activities and amenities during this period.