Emerald Lake State Park wilderness guide
State Park · VT

Emerald Lake State Park

Emerald Lake State Park in Vermont offers a serene retreat with opportunities for camping and a variety of outdoor activities around its central feature, the picturesque Emerald Lake.

State Park4303+ Trails

Designation

State Park

Total Wilderness Area

430

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Emerald Lake State Park

Emerald Lake State Park in Vermont offers a serene retreat with opportunities for camping and a variety of outdoor activities around its central feature, the picturesque Emerald Lake.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Emerald Lake State Park, located in the heart of Vermont, is a scenic destination that spans approximately 430 acres. It is centered around Emerald Lake, a pristine body of water that provides opportunities for boating, swimming, and fishing. The park is enveloped by lush, forested hills, providing a tranquil environment perfect for nature enthusiasts. Historically, the area was once the site of the Dorset Marble Company, and remnants of the marble quarrying operations are still visible today. Hiking is a popular activity here, with trails that offer rewarding views of the surrounding Taconic Mountains. Wildlife is abundant, and visitors often spot deer, foxes, and a variety of bird species. The park is particularly popular for family camping, offering well-maintained campgrounds with essential amenities. In addition to its natural appeal, the park's accessibility from nearby towns makes it a cherished spot for local residents and travelers seeking a peaceful escape into nature.

Field Guide · State Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Emerald Lake State Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Emerald Lake itself, a stunning centerpiece for water activities✦ The historical remnants of the Dorset Marble Quarry✦ Scenic hiking trails with views of the Taconic Mountains✦ Peaceful campgrounds ideal for family camping
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Emerald Lake State Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Emerald Lake State Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Emerald Lake State Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Emerald Lake State Park
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Emerald Lake State Park
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in Emerald Lake State Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Emerald Lake State Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Emerald Lake State Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Day-use fee required, payable at the park entrance.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Emerald Lake State Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Emerald Lake State Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Dorset, Vermont
⌖ 7.20 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Dorset, Vermont

Dorset is a hub for outdoor adventure in Vermont's stunning Green Mountains. With hiking, skiing, paddling, and more, visitors can fully immerse themselves in nature's beauty.

Summer and Fall
Explore Town
Tinmouth, Vermont
⌖ 7.53 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Tinmouth, Vermont

Tinmouth, Vermont is a quiet country town perfect for peaceful hiking, road biking, and winter snowshoeing. Surrounded by forests and mountains, it offers an authentic Vermont outdoor experience away from crowded trails.

Late Spring through Fall; Winter for snow sports
Explore Town
Landgrove, Vermont
⌖ 10.34 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Landgrove, Vermont

Landgrove, Vermont, offers a quiet haven for hiking, skiing, and bird watching amid green forests and nearby ski slopes. Perfect for outdoor lovers wanting a peaceful escape with authentic Vermont nature and community vibes.

Fall and Winter
Explore Town
Middletown Springs, Vermont
⌖ 11.07 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Middletown Springs, Vermont

Middletown Springs, Vermont offers tranquil hiking, fishing, and paddling opportunities amidst scenic lakes and the Taconic foothills. A peaceful spot for outdoor lovers to explore rural trails and enjoy quiet nature escapes year-round.

Spring through Fall, with winter for cross-country skiing
Explore Town
Weston, Vermont
⌖ 11.97 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Weston, Vermont

Weston, Vermont, offers a peaceful mountain escape with hiking, cross-country skiing, paddling, and more. Known for its historic village and outdoor trails, it's a great basecamp for exploring the Green Mountains year-round.

Fall and Winter
Explore Town
Mount Holly, Vermont
⌖ 12.15 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Mount Holly, Vermont

Mount Holly, Vermont, offers tranquil outdoor adventures from forest hikes and mountain biking to winter skiing and paddling. Set near Okemo Mountain Resort, this quiet town is perfect for nature lovers and those seeking peaceful seasonal escapes.

Late Spring to Fall for hiking, biking, and paddling; Winter for skiing and snowshoeing
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Emerald Lake State Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Mini Shred Madness: Volunteer on the Lil' Stash at Pico
ADVEXPEDITION
Mendon, Vermont
SkiADV Bookable

Mini Shred Madness: Volunteer on the Lil' Stash at Pico

Two-hour volunteer shifts at Pico place you on the Events Team—working registration or as a runner in the Lil' Stash terrain park—while earning a Killington lift ticket and lunch for each shift.

SkiPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip