Molly Stark State Park wilderness guide
State Park · VT

Molly Stark State Park

Molly Stark State Park offers a tranquil outdoor experience in southeastern Vermont, known for its scenic views, hiking trails, and campground facilities under the Green Mountain foothills.

State Park1484+ Trails

Designation

State Park

Total Wilderness Area

148

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Molly Stark State Park

Molly Stark State Park offers a tranquil outdoor experience in southeastern Vermont, known for its scenic views, hiking trails, and campground facilities under the Green Mountain foothills.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Molly Stark State Park is located in Wilmington, Vermont, along the western edge of the Green Mountains. It encompasses approximately 148 acres of forested land featuring rolling hills, mixed hardwood and conifer stands, and a mix of northern New England flora. The park is named after Molly Stark, wife of American Revolutionary War General John Stark, honoring the region's rich colonial history. The park’s landscape provides well-maintained trails suitable for hiking and snowshoeing during winter months, with spectacular views of the surrounding Green Mountains and the Deerfield River valley. Campers enjoy a family-friendly campground outfitted with amenities including tent sites and RV access. In addition to hiking and camping, the area is popular for wildlife observation, with deer, foxes, and numerous bird species often sighted. Visitors can explore the Molly Stark Trail, which leads to an impressive overlook at the summit above the park, providing sweeping vistas that characterize the scenic beauty of Vermont. With a peaceful setting and ample recreational opportunities, the park attracts outdoor enthusiasts looking for a quiet retreat close to the Vermont/New Hampshire border. Its convenient location near Wilmington makes it easily accessible for day trips and weekend stays, complementing the greater recreational offerings of the Deerfield River area.

Field Guide · State Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Molly Stark State Park

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

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Molly Stark Trail Overlook – panoramic views of the Green Mountains✦ Diverse northern hardwood and conifer forest ecosystems✦ Family-friendly campground with modern amenities✦ Access to Deerfield River recreational areas nearby
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Molly Stark State Park

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

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Molly Stark State Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Molly Stark State Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Molly Stark State Park
Park Recreation

Snow Sports

Available in Molly Stark State Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Molly Stark State Park
Park Recreation

Picnicking

Available in Molly Stark 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 Molly Stark State Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Day-use parking fee applies; camping requires reservations and camping fees.

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 Molly Stark State Park

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

Molly Stark State Park Campground

Family-oriented campground with over 40 sites including tent and RV hookups, accessible restrooms, and picnic tables.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Molly Stark State Park

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

Searsburg, Vermont
⌖ 3.58 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Searsburg, Vermont

Searsburg, Vermont is a remote town ideal for outdoor lovers seeking solitude in the Green Mountains. Enjoy cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, and paddling in pristine, rugged landscapes far from the crowds.

Fall and Winter
Explore Town
Wilmington, Vermont
⌖ 3.81 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Wilmington, Vermont

Wilmington, Vermont is an inviting mountain town known for Mount Snow’s ski slopes and a year-round playground of hiking, biking, paddling, and winter activities in the Deerfield Valley.

Year-round (Summer and Winter especially popular)
Explore Town
Woodford, Vermont
⌖ 7.88 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Woodford, Vermont

Woodford, Vermont is a quiet mountain town known for peaceful hiking, backcountry camping, and winter snow sports. Surrounded by protected forests, it’s a perfect escape for nature lovers seeking solitude and classic Green Mountain scenery.

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

Dover, Vermont

Dover, Vermont offers a blend of mountain skiing, forest hiking, and paddling adventures. With Mount Snow as a hub, outdoor lovers can enjoy vibrant winter sports and quiet summer trails in a welcoming mountain town.

Winter and Summer
Explore Town
Marlboro, Vermont
⌖ 10.75 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Marlboro, Vermont

Marlboro, Vermont is a tranquil outdoor destination known for its forested hiking trails, quiet paddling on the West River, and peaceful winter skiing. Ideal for adventurers seeking solitude and natural beauty in a small-town setting.

Late spring through early fall for hiking and paddling; winter for cross-country skiing
Explore Town
North Adams, Massachusetts
⌖ 13.16 miles
Gateway Basecamp

North Adams, Massachusetts

North Adams in the Berkshires offers hiking, biking, and paddling amid scenic landscapes and vibrant culture. Ideal for fall foliage and art lovers alike.

Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Molly Stark State Park

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

Kid-Sized Suspension: Riding the Norco Fluid 20 at Berkshire East
ADVEXPEDITION
Charlemont, Massachusetts
AttractionADV Bookable

Kid-Sized Suspension: Riding the Norco Fluid 20 at Berkshire East

A youth-specific 20" full-suspension mountain bike (for riders 3'10"–4'3") that brings trail-capable comfort and control to young riders; this guide outlines what the Norco Fluid 20 is and who it suits.

AttractionPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip