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Molly Stark
Overview
Molly Stark State Park offers a classic Vermont camping experience along the scenic Molly Stark Trail. Named after the wife of Revolutionary War hero General John Stark, this park serves as a serene gateway to the Green Mountain National Forest. Visitors find themselves surrounded by a lush hardwood forest that provides a cooling canopy during the summer months and incredible vibrant foliage throughout the autumn season. It remains a quiet refuge for those seeking the peaceful sounds of nature.
Location & Surroundings
Situated on Route 9 in Wilmington, VT, the park sits at a high elevation, making it a refreshing escape from the humidity of the valleys. It is conveniently located between the historic towns of Brattleboro and Bennington, offering a perfect mid-point for road trippers. The surrounding landscape is defined by rolling mountain ridges and the charming, small-town atmosphere of nearby Wilmington, which is just a short drive away for travelers needing local supplies or artisan goods.
Amenities & Park Features
This is a rustic destination featuring wooded RV sites and lean-tos that accommodate trailers and motorhomes up to 30 feet in length. While there are no water or electric hookups at the individual sites, the park provides essential facilities including restrooms with hot showers and a communal sanitary dump station. Campers can also utilize the historic stone picnic pavilion and well-maintained fire rings at each site to enjoy the authentic Vermont outdoor living experience.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
The highlight of the park is the hiking trail leading up to Mt. Olga, where a former fire tower offers breathtaking 360-degree views of Vermont, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts. For water enthusiasts, the Harriman Reservoir is located just minutes away, offering vast opportunities for boating, swimming, and fishing in crystal-clear waters. The downtown area of Wilmington provides a unique collection of historic architecture, antique shops, and local galleries to explore after a morning of hiking.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is an ideal fit for nature enthusiasts and travelers who prefer a quiet, off-grid camping style over a commercial resort experience. It is perfectly suited for smaller RVs, truck campers, or van lifers looking to explore the scenic byways of Vermont in a peaceful setting. If you value privacy, direct hiking access, and a genuine connection to the mountainous landscape, this park is a wonderful choice for your next New England journey.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Frank Peinemann
Dogs were not leashed, not in the picnic area, not on the narrow trail. Otherwise the trail would be a nice hike. At the end of the loop trail, there is a tower that offers great views of the many trees around.
Helpful Contributor
We camped at Molly Stark State Park for two nights in a lean-to during peak foliage. Restroom and shower facilities were immaculate—clearly well cared for. The campground was quiet, and fellow campers were respectful. The fall colors were stunning, especially around the trails. The lower parking lot near the ranger station gets crowded with day hikers, so plan accordingly. It was a great spot to unwind by a campfire and enjoy the woods without much noise or hassle.
david dickey
Great little park. Unfortunately, i fell asleep in my campsite and was not able to explore as much as I wanted. Fortunatley, this park is great place to take an unscheduled nap. Ash was my campsite. I love that leanto. So refreshing to wake up slowly in an area sorrunded by nature. Birds, fresh air, lush greenery. Vermont after all comes from the the root word Ver? as in Verde. The campsite and facilies were as good as your are going to get. Easy to get to park. Only bad thing was the toliet paper. Galveston State Park you finally meet your match.
Robyn S.
Trail was fabulous!! Straight up and well marked, but a doable moderate! The fire tower was in great condition and didn’t sway. The view was great. The loop back through the campground was much easier, loved the rock hoping and small stream to cross. Bathrooms were clean and parking was great. Keep in mind fee for park is $5 per person.
Gary Wilpizeski (garr1s0n)
Our stay at Molly Stark was outstanding. We stayed a Friday through Sunday in late July at a lean-to site with our dog. Staff was friendly and helpful, plenty of firewood on site to purchase, the campsites were tidy, well planned, and all had easy parking access. Very convenient trail access to the Mt. Olga hiking loop which was an enjoyable hike that I was able to extend over to Hogback as well. Would certainly stay here again!