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Maidstone
Overview
Maidstone State Park offers a serene escape into the remote wilderness of Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom. Centered around the crystal-clear waters of **Maidstone Lake**, this park provides a true back-to-nature experience for those looking to unplug. Established in the 1930s, it remains one of the state's most secluded destinations, where the haunting calls of common loons replace the sounds of city traffic. The park's deep **glacial lake** and the surrounding dense forests create a quiet atmosphere that is increasingly rare in modern travel.
Location & Surroundings
The park is situated on the shores of a stunning lake in **Maidstone, VT**, just a short distance from the New Hampshire border. This rugged landscape is characterized by thick woodlands and high elevations, offering a cool, refreshing climate during the summer months. The shoreline is mostly undeveloped, preserving a sense of isolation and tranquility. Visitors often find that the **pristine water quality** and the surrounding mountain views make it one of the most picturesque spots in the entire region for nature photography.
Amenities & Park Features
As a rustic destination, the park features a campground with **34 tent and RV sites** and 25 lean-tos. While there are no water or electric hookups available, the park provides essential comforts for a comfortable stay. Key amenities include:
- Hot showers and modern flush toilets located in the main bathhouses.
- A sandy swimming beach and spacious picnic areas for family gatherings.
- Boat rentals for exploring the **deep glacial waters** of the lake.
- Access to nature trails and fire pits at every individual campsite.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Outdoor recreation is the primary draw here, with the lake serving as the centerpiece for activity. The water is famous for its **trout and salmon fishing**, attracting dedicated anglers from across New England. Boating, kayaking, and canoeing are popular ways to explore the shoreline and observe local wildlife. Beyond the park, the nearby **Connecticut River** offers additional paddling opportunities. The surrounding Northeast Kingdom is home to scenic backroads and small historic villages, perfect for travelers who enjoy slow-paced sightseeing and rural Vermont charm.
Who This Park Is Best For
Maidstone is best suited for travelers who prefer **rustic camping** over the amenities of a luxury resort. It is an excellent choice for birdwatchers, specifically those interested in observing **nesting loons** in their natural habitat. Small to mid-sized RVs and campervans will find the wooded sites comfortable, though those requiring full hookups should be prepared for a dry camping experience. It is the perfect destination for families and solo travelers who value silence, stargazing, and a deep, authentic connection with the outdoors.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Sarah Jabens
Love this place. A ton of the campsites are directly on the lake, perfect for taking a dip and not even having to leave your campsite. Bathrooms are spacious and clean. The newly renovated bathroom is epic. Lovely clean showers with hot water. The lake is gorgeous and you can rent canoes and such for water activities. We stayed in site T41 which was large. Unfortunately the website didn't mention that the site itself is up 4 large steps, so we had to lug our gear up those to set up camp. Bad backs beware!
Emily Talbott
Maidstone Lake is reputed to be beautiful & that would seem accurate based on our brief glimpses. Most of the lake is surrounded by private property, except the State Park. I had done my research before our visit and read that dogs are allowed only on trails in Maidstone. We didn't know where to find the trails, so went to the only employee available: the person who runs the registration for camping. There was a bell on the desk outside the window/screen with a sign that said "Ring bell". It seemed rude to ring the bell when the person was a few inches away so I simply said "hi". The man said "did you ring the bell?" So I dutifully rang the bell and he said "okay then". I asked whether we could take our dog somewhere in the park and he said no dogs are not allowed on the beach or in the day use areas. I told him I had read that dogs were allowed on the trails. He replied "you didn't TELL me you wanted to go on a trail" and then reluctantly pulled a trail map out to show me where we could hike. I told him never mind we would prefer to go somewhere friendly to both dogs and people. He was the biggest a****** I have encountered recently, even by New England standards.
Miccal McMullan
One of my favorite state parks to camp at.
Elaine Hodge
Great park nice lots plenty of room.
David Fuller
The park staff were super nice and very helpful. We will be returning for sure.