Description
This busy park is popular for its sandy swimming area, picnic grounds, and camping area. Its proximity to Woodstock and other central Vermont tourist destinations makes it ideal for family vacations. The park encompasses the northern shoreline of 84-acre Silver Lake which supports excellent fishing of northern pike, perch, smallmouth bass and other warm-water species. The lake is popular for paddling and quieter recreation, with only occasional motorboats passing by. During the winter months, when the park is closed, the lake is a popular spot for ice skating and ice fishing.
Geography:
Silver Lake was originally called Stebblings' Pond after Benjamin Stebblings who owned land at the outlet where the Barnard General Store now stands. When Benjamin Stebblings moved out of the area, the lake became known as Barnard Pond. In 1869, Barnard Pond was renamed Silver Lake. Barnard, chartered July 17, 1761 from the New Hampshire Grants, quickly became an agricultural town. Early homestead farms were replaced by sheep farms in the mid 19th century, and later dairy operations, a few of which remain today. The 35-acre state park was once part of several farms; a farm homestead was located near the current park entrance; the remains of a barn foundation are still visible in the campground. Today the town is known for the state park, and picturesque New England charm of the village center.
Recreation:
Excellent camping, swimming, boating, fishing and picnicking. Canoes, kayaks and standup paddleboards are available to rent. Nature and interpretive programs are also offered.
Facilities:
39 tent/RV sites, 7 lean-tos, restrooms with flush toilets, hot and cold running water and coin-operated showers. The park also has a picnic pavilion that can seat up to 100 people with picnic tables and group grills. At the beach there is a concession stand, large playground and cartop boat launch. Drinking water is available throughout the park. A RV dump station is available but there are no hookups.
Nearby Attractions:
Mountain biking at Killington Bike Park, Killington Gondola Rides, Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historic Park, Coolidge Historic Site, Vermont Institute of Natural Science.
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