Lake Shaftsbury State Park

For dining near Lake Shaftsbury State Park, Bronwyn on Battenkill offers a cozy atmosphere with a great beer selection and live music, making it perfect for dinner or a casual evening out. Another option is Four Chimneys Inn & Restaurant, known for its elegant setting and fine dining experience. For a more casual meal, Blue Benn is a traditional diner serving classic breakfast and lunch options. Ye Olde Tavern offers hearty New England fare in a historic setting, while Fuji provides a variety of Asian dishes in a cozy environment.

Visitors to Lake Shaftsbury State Park can choose from several nearby accommodations. The Serenity Motel offers comfortable rooms with free Wi-Fi, located conveniently along Vermont Route 7A. Another option is the Governor's Rock Motel, which provides cozy rooms with minifridges and complimentary pastries. For a more luxurious stay, the Four Chimneys Inn offers elegant rooms in a historic setting. Additionally, the Lake Shaftsbury State Park itself has a lakeside cottage available for rent, providing a scenic and peaceful retreat.

Lake Shaftsbury State Park offers a range of amenities to enhance visitor experiences. The park includes restrooms with flush toilets and hot and cold running water, a developed sandy beach, picnic areas, and a snack bar with boat rentals available. A picnic pavilion can be rented for group functions, seating up to 100 people. The park also features a nature trail and a playground, making it suitable for family outings. Additionally, there are 15 lean-to sites for group camping and a fully furnished lakeside cottage for rent.

The park offers a variety of activities for visitors. Swimming is a popular pastime, with a designated beach area. Kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding are also available, with rentals provided by the park. Fishing is another favorite activity, with species like rainbow trout and panfish found in the lake. The Healing Springs Trail provides a scenic hike through diverse landscapes, including forests and wetlands, ideal for nature lovers and birdwatchers. Picnicking is also a common activity, with many scenic spots around the lake.

While Lake Shaftsbury State Park offers a natural and serene environment, it may pose challenges for visitors with disabilities. The park does not have specific accommodations for people with disabilities, such as wheelchair-accessible trails or facilities beyond basic restrooms. However, efforts are being made to improve accessibility, including plans to connect accessible sections of the Healing Springs Trail. Visitors with mobility issues should plan accordingly and contact park officials for more information.

Parking at Lake Shaftsbury State Park is primarily street parking near the entrance, as there is no dedicated parking lot within the park. This arrangement is convenient for visitors but may require a short walk to the beach or other facilities. The lack of a large parking area helps maintain the park's natural ambiance and ensures that the focus remains on outdoor activities and relaxation.

Lake Shaftsbury State Park has a rich history, having been part of the Underground Railroad in the 19th century. The area was once known for its healing springs, which were believed to have medicinal properties. The park's transformation from a private resort to a state park in 1974 has preserved its natural beauty for public enjoyment. The Healing Springs Trail, named after these historical springs, now offers a unique hiking experience through the park's diverse landscapes.

Near Lake Shaftsbury State Park, visitors can explore several attractions that highlight the region's history and natural beauty. The Bennington Monument and Museum offer insights into local history, while the Norman Rockwell Museum in Arlington showcases the artist's work. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Equinox Mountain Drive provides stunning views, and the Southern Vermont Art Center features local art exhibitions. These attractions complement the park's serene environment, offering a well-rounded experience for visitors.