Coolidge State Park
Vermont’s Premier Fall Foliage Campground & CCC Legacy
Nestled within the 21,500-acre Calvin Coolidge State Forest — Vermont’s largest state-owned landholding — Coolidge State Park sits high on a hillside in Plymouth, offering some of the most spectacular mountain views in the Green Mountain State. Built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this park seamlessly blends New England history with outdoor adventure.
The park is named for President Calvin Coolidge, who was born in the nearby village of Plymouth Notch — now a beautifully preserved historic site. During peak fall foliage season, typically the first week of October, the hillside campsites become front-row seats to one of nature’s most stunning displays, as the surrounding maple forests explode with brilliant orange, crimson, and gold.
Hiking Trails
Coolidge State Park offers miles of well-maintained trails ranging from easy walks to moderate summit hikes, all winding through classic Vermont forest landscapes.
- CCC Trail (1.5 miles one-way): A historically significant trail passing the former CCC camp site and a beautiful hemlock grove, leading to the Bradley Hill Picnic Shelter. Moderate elevation gains with interpretive markers about the park’s Depression-era origins.
- Slack Hill Trail (2.5 miles one-way): The park’s signature hike ascending to the 2,174-foot summit of Slack Hill. On clear days, the narrow summit vista reveals Mount Ascutney and the rolling Green Mountain landscape stretching to the horizon.
- West Branch Trail: A scenic streamside walk following the West Branch of the Black River, offering opportunities to spot wildlife and discover small waterfalls tucked into mossy ravines.
- Wildcat Trail: A moderate hike leading to a beautiful waterfall with rewarding views of the surrounding valleys.
Camping
Coolidge’s campground is consistently rated among Vermont’s finest, with 62 campsites arranged in two loops on a wooded hillside. The camping season runs from Memorial Day weekend through the second Monday in October.
Campsite Options
- Tent/RV Sites (26 sites): Well-spaced sites in a forested setting with tables, fire rings, and grills. No individual hookups are available, keeping the experience rustic and authentic.
- Lean-To Sites (36 sites): The park’s legendary lean-tos are the real draw. Many are perched on the hillside with sweeping views of the Black River Valley and Green Mountains that campers describe as the best views from any campsite in Vermont. Waking up to a sunrise over misty mountain valleys is an unforgettable experience.
Campground Amenities
The campground features clean restrooms with flush toilets and coin-operated hot showers, drinking water spigots, and an RV dump station. The large group picnic pavilion accommodates up to 70 guests and can be reserved. Additional amenities include a nature center, horseshoe pits, and a children’s play area. Pets are welcome throughout the park but must remain leashed.
Nearby Attractions
- Calvin Coolidge Presidential Historic Site: Just minutes away in Plymouth Notch, this remarkably preserved village is where the 30th president was born, raised, and sworn into office. The homestead, general store, and cheese factory are open for tours.
- Plymouth Artisan Cheese: Located in the historic Coolidge family cheese factory, this working creamery produces award-winning Vermont cheddar using traditional methods.
- Killington Ski Resort: Vermont’s largest ski area is just a short drive north, offering summer mountain biking and scenic gondola rides.
Visitor Tips
- Fall Foliage: Book your campsite months in advance for the first two weeks of October. The lean-to sites with valley views are the first to sell out.
- Layers: Mountain elevations mean cool mornings even in summer. Bring warm layers and rain gear year-round.
- Reservations: Available through Vermont State Parks. Walk-in availability is rare during peak season.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to visit Vermont state parks?
Day-use fees are typically $4-$5 per adult and $2 for children. Camping fees vary by park and campsite type. Vermont state parks are generally smaller and more intimate than neighboring states.
When is the best time for fall foliage in Vermont?
Vermont foliage typically peaks from late September in the northern Green Mountains to mid-October in southern Vermont. The Green Mountain Byway and Route 100 are legendary foliage drives.
Can I swim in quarries at Vermont state parks?
Yes, several Vermont parks offer unique swimming in historic granite quarries, including Groton State Forest areas. These former quarry pools offer deep, clear water in dramatic stone settings.
What are the best state parks in Vermont?
Top parks include Smuggler’s Notch (dramatic mountain pass), Burton Island (island camping by ferry), Branbury (Lake Dunmore beach), and Quechee State Park (Quechee Gorge overlook).
Explore More Vermont State Parks
Coolidge State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in Vermont. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Vermont guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
