Woods Island State Park

For dining options near Woods Island State Park, visitors can explore several excellent restaurants in St. Albans. Bayside Pavilion offers a casual, cozy atmosphere with great beer and cocktail selections, perfect for lunch or dinner. The Drake Bar and Kitchen is known for its fast service and trendy vibe, serving organic dishes and craft cocktails. Mill River Brewing BBQ & Smokehouse combines barbecue with a great selection of beers, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists. Jeff's Restaurant is a seafood favorite with a cozy atmosphere, offering a great wine list and excellent service. Lastly, Twiggs American Gastropub provides a funky tavern setting with live music and a variety of comfort foods.

For accommodations near Woods Island State Park, several hotels in St. Albans offer comfortable stays. The Hampton Inn St. Albans features an indoor pool and free breakfast, providing a low-key yet convenient stay. The Inn at St. Albans offers simple rooms with kitchens and an indoor pool, ideal for families. The Econo Lodge provides basic lodging with free breakfast and WiFi, catering to budget-conscious travelers.

Woods Island State Park is relatively undeveloped, with no modern amenities like restrooms or showers available on the island. However, it offers a scenic 1.5-mile loop trail and five waterfront campsites for primitive camping during the summer months. Visitors must bring all necessary supplies as there are no facilities on the island. Nearby attractions like Kill Kare State Park offer additional amenities such as picnic tables and public restrooms.

Woods Island State Park is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking is available year-round, and the park's loop trail provides a serene walk through the island's natural habitats. Paddling is a popular activity, with visitors often launching from nearby Kill Kare State Park for a two-mile crossing to Woods Island. Camping is another favorite pastime, with primitive sites available during the summer months. Birdwatching is also a highlight, given the island's diverse wildlife.

Woods Island State Park is not easily accessible for visitors with disabilities due to its remote location and lack of developed facilities. However, nearby launch sites like Kill Kare State Park offer wheelchair-accessible parking and restrooms. Visitors planning to paddle to Woods Island should ensure they have the necessary equipment and support for their needs.

Parking for Woods Island State Park is not directly available on the island, as it is accessible only by boat. Visitors typically park at nearby launch sites such as Kill Kare State Park, which offers parking facilities for those preparing to paddle to the island. There are no parking fees specifically for Woods Island, but day-use fees may apply at launch sites like Kill Kare.

Woods Island State Park has a fascinating history, having been purchased and conserved by the State of Vermont in 1985 with assistance from the Lake Champlain Land Trust. The island's unique wildlife habitat and rare flora make it a significant ecological site. Its undeveloped nature provides a peaceful retreat for visitors seeking solitude and connection with nature. The island's transformation from agricultural land to a preserved state park is a testament to successful conservation efforts.

Near Woods Island State Park, several attractions offer additional recreational opportunities. Kill Kare State Park is a popular spot for launching paddling trips to Woods Island and offers picnic areas and public restrooms. Burton Island State Park is another nearby destination, accessible by ferry, and provides hiking trails and scenic views. The city of St. Albans offers a charming downtown area with shops and restaurants to explore.