Stratton State Park wilderness guide
State Park · VT

Stratton State Park

Stratton State Park is a popular Vermont destination offering diverse outdoor activities including hiking, swimming, and camping around a scenic mountain lake.

State Park10204+ Trails

Designation

State Park

Total Wilderness Area

1020

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Stratton State Park

Stratton State Park is a popular Vermont destination offering diverse outdoor activities including hiking, swimming, and camping around a scenic mountain lake.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Stratton State Park is located in the Green Mountains of southern Vermont, just east of the town of Stratton. It covers lands surrounding Lake Stratton, a 108-acre scenic mountain lake, making it a favored spot for summertime recreation and family outings. The park’s geography features gentle forested slopes, wetlands, and lakeshore environments that support a mix of deciduous and coniferous tree species. Wildlife such as white-tailed deer, black bears, and numerous bird species are commonly seen in the park. Stratton State Park was created in the 1960s to provide public access to the lake and preserve the natural landscape for recreation and conservation. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities including swimming at the sandy beach, fishing for trout, hiking on well-maintained trails, and camping. The park has facilities such as picnic areas and a state-run campground with both tent sites and lean-tos. Notable landmarks include the tranquil Lake Stratton itself and several scenic viewpoints offering wide views of the surrounding green mountains. The park attracts outdoor enthusiasts throughout the warmer months with its balanced mix of natural beauty, easy access, and well-developed amenities. Winters see less visitation, but the region supports snow sports nearby. Stratton State Park’s straightforward, family-friendly recreation opportunities make it a solid destination for visitors seeking a classic Vermont mountain park experience.

Field Guide · State Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Stratton State Park

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

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Lake Stratton beach and swimming area✦ Hiking trails with mountain and lake views✦ Family-friendly campground with lean-to shelters✦ Nearby access to Stratton Mountain ski area and Appalachian Trail
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Stratton State Park

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

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Stratton State Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Stratton State Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Stratton State Park
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Stratton State Park
Park Recreation

Swimming

Available in Stratton State Park
Park Recreation

Picnicking

Available in Stratton State Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Stratton 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 Stratton State Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Day-use fee required for beach and parking; camping fees apply; Vermont State Park Pass accepted.

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 Stratton State Park

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

Stratton State Park Campground

Located adjacent to Lake Stratton, this campground offers tent sites and lean-tos with nearby restroom facilities and easy beach access.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Stratton State Park

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

Bondville, Vermont
⌖ 2.00 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Bondville, Vermont

Bondville, Vermont is a charming village near Stratton Mountain that offers year-round outdoor adventures from skiing and snowshoeing in winter to hiking, mountain biking, and paddling in warmer months.

Winter and Summer
Explore Town
Stratton, Vermont
⌖ 5.25 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Stratton, Vermont

Stratton, Vermont is a lively mountain town famous for its skiing but offers excellent summer hiking, mountain biking, paddling, and camping opportunities. Its scenic trails and lake access make it a versatile all-season outdoor destination.

Winter and Summer
Explore Town
Jamaica, Vermont
⌖ 5.82 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Jamaica, Vermont

Jamaica, VT offers outdoor enthusiasts access to Green Mountain escapes. Whether exploring trails or paddling the West River, this quaint town provides a tranquil base for adventure.

Londonderry, Vermont
⌖ 8.66 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Londonderry, Vermont

Londonderry, Vermont offers a peaceful outdoor escape with scenic hiking, mountain biking, and winter trails perfect for skiing and snowshoeing. This quiet town is ideal for travelers seeking nature’s beauty across all seasons.

Late Spring through Fall for hiking and biking; Winter for skiing and snowshoeing
Explore Town
Derry, County Londonderry
⌖ 9.13 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Derry, County Londonderry

Derry is a charming walled city rich in history and surrounded by beautiful landscapes. Outdoor lovers can enjoy hiking, cycling, kayaking, and birdwatching amid urban and rural settings, making Derry an ideal basecamp for mixed adventure.

Late Spring to Early Autumn
Explore Town
Windham, Vermont
⌖ 9.46 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Windham, Vermont

Windham, Vermont offers a blend of mountain hiking, whitewater paddling, and winter skiing. With forested trails, a lively river, and a welcoming town vibe, it’s a solid base for year-round adventure in the Green Mountains.

Spring through Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for skiing and snowboarding
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Stratton State Park

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

Weekend Intro to Hang Gliding Lessons at Morningside Flight Park
ADVEXPEDITION
Charlestown, New Hampshire
Air ActivitiesADV Bookable

Weekend Intro to Hang Gliding Lessons at Morningside Flight Park

A two-lesson beginner package in Charlestown, NH that gives repeated practice with launches, landings, and flight-control techniques over two to three days—this guide explains what to expect and how the sessions are scheduled.

Air ActivitiesPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip