Lake Vacation in Vermont
Summer on the Lake
A lake vacation in Vermont offers unparalleled tranquility and natural beauty, from the serene reflections of towering pines on the water to the vibrant hues of sunsets painting the sky. Wake to the gentle lapping of waves against the shore as the first light of dawn peeks over the mountains. Spend your days exploring crystal-clear waters by kayak or paddleboard, relaxing on sandy beaches, or fishing from a boat or a dock. Whether you choose a family resort on the shore, a rustic campsite, or a classic lakeside cottage, the lush surroundings and fresh air will elevate you to a whole new state. Vermont’s lakes are an escape from the everyday, blending natural beauty with the comfort of well-loved vacation traditions.
Vermont Lakes to Vacation On
Lake Bomoseen
The largest lake entirely within Vermont’s borders, Lake Bomoseen is part of a state park that also features a history trail and evidence of the area’s quarrying past.
Read More about Lake BomoseenLearn MoreEmerald Lake
This southern Vermont lake looks emerald green when viewed from above. Fed by the headwaters of Otter Creek, non-motorized boats, swimmers, and paddleboarders flock here.
Read More about Emerald LakeLearn MoreLake Memphremagog
Stretching into Canada, Lake Memphremagog is Newport’s gateway to the water. Take a lake cruise, paddle, or simply walk or dine lakeside.
Lake Champlain
Sometimes called the sixth Great Lake, Champlain frames Vermont’s largest city, Burlington, as well as St. Albans and the Champlain Islands.
Waterbury Center State Park
A grassy picnic area next to a reservoir with a dam and a day-use park area, popular in the summer. Remote paddle-to campsites can be accessed from the park.
Read More about Waterbury Center State ParkLearn MoreLake Willoughby
Vermont’s deepest lake, Willoughby’s skyline is scored by the dramatic fjord-like cliffs of mounts Pisgah and Hor.
Read More about Lake WilloughbyLearn MoreLake Morey
Lake Morey is west of the Connecticut River in the town of Fairlee. A town beach and public boat launch invites visitors to paddle, boat, and swim on the water, and on the shore, a classic New England resort offers lodging and, in the winter, the country’s longest ice skating trail.
Read More about Lake MoreyLearn MoreCaspian Lake
Nestled in Greensboro in Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom region, Caspian has always been a popular summertime destination for boaters, paddlers, anglers, and swimmers with a free public beach. Nearby general store Willey’s Store and Highland Lodge round out the area’s offerings.
Vermont is home to more than 802 lakes and ponds.
Things To Do On The Water
Paddling in Vermont
More than 800 lakes and ponds and more than 7,000 miles of rivers mean Vermont’s waterways intertwine to connect the state’s historic downtowns, state parks, and conserved forest land, offering diverse territory for paddling.
Read More about Paddling in VermontPaddlingSwimming in Vermont
After hiking, paddling, biking, or just touring around on a hot summer day in Vermont, few things feel as good as swimming in a lake, pond, river, or iconic swimming hole.
Read More about Swimming in VermontJump InFishing in Vermont
Whether you fly fish Vermont’s creeks and streams, cast from a boat on the lake, or fish from shore, the sport’s slower pace offers a chance to unwind and take in the natural beauty that surrounds you.
Read More about Fishing in VermontCast Your LineBoating in Vermont
Whether you’re raising a mainsail and hoisting a jib or cruising around one of Vermont’s lakes on a motorboat, here’s how to get out on the water in Vermont.
Read More about Boating in VermontSailing & Boating
Find Lodging by the Lake
Your overnight accommodations help define your Vermont vacation. Whether you find yourself in a rustic cabin by a pristine lake or a classic New England family shore resort, or bedding down beneath the stars soundtracked by waves, find a place to stay by the lake this summer.
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Vermont State Parks
In Vermont, 55 state parks are open year-round, offering easy access to many of the state’s lakes and ponds. Discover boat rentals, boat launches, overnight camping, picnic areas, and much more at parks statewide.
Learn More about Vermont State Parks