Maidstone State Park

Vermont’s Most Remote State Park — Pristine Lake, Nesting Loons & Moose in the Northeast Kingdom

Maidstone State Park occupies forest-rimmed shores of Maidstone Lake in the town of Guildhall, deep in Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom — the state’s most remote and least populated region. The lake itself is remarkable: clear, cold, and deep, surrounded by unbroken boreal forest with no visible development on the far shore. This is one of Vermont’s most pristine natural lakes — a place where loons nest and call across the water at dawn, and moose browse the marshy coves at dusk.

The park offers 59 campsites (34 tent/RV and 25 lean-tos), many with direct lake frontage, a swimming beach, and boat rentals. The fishing is excellent — lake trout, rainbow trout, smallmouth bass, and perch — and the remoteness guarantees a level of quiet that’s increasingly rare. Getting here requires driving gravel roads through miles of forest, and the nearest grocery store is a significant drive away. This is deliberate isolation, not accidental — Maidstone rewards visitors who come prepared for self-reliance.

Things to Do

Loon Watching

Maidstone Lake is one of Vermont’s premier loon nesting sites. Common loons breed and raise chicks here each summer. Their haunting calls — especially at dawn and dusk — define the Maidstone experience. Observe from a distance (use binoculars) and maintain at least 150 feet from nesting areas.

Fishing

• Species: Lake trout (abundant), rainbow trout (stocked), smallmouth bass, perch, bullhead
• Lake trout fishing: The deep, cold lake produces excellent lake trout — fish deep with trolling or jigging
• Boat launch: Vermont Fish & Wildlife access area nearby (not within the park)

Swimming

The park’s sandy swimming beach provides access to the lake’s clean, cold water. Supervised in summer — but the water is cold even in August due to the lake’s depth and spring-fed character.

Boating & Paddling

Registered campers can rent kayaks, canoes, and rowboats through the park office. Paddling the lake’s perimeter — especially early morning for loon and moose sighting — is the quintessential Maidstone experience.

Hiking & Wildlife

The park’s trail network loops through boreal forest along the lakeshore. Beyond loons, the surrounding forests support moose, black bears, deer, and numerous bird species. The remote location and intact forest create excellent wildlife habitat.

Camping

Facilities: Flush toilets, coin-operated hot showers, dishwashing station, dump station. No hookups — this is primitive camping in a pristine setting.

Best Time to Visit

Visitor Tips

• Come prepared: Maidstone is remote. The nearest grocery stores and gas stations are a significant drive. Pack all food, supplies, firewood, and essentials before arriving. The gravel access road adds to the journey.
• Bear precautions: Black bears are active in this area. Secure all food and trash in vehicles — never leave food unattended at your campsite. Use the park’s bear-resistant protocols.
• Loon etiquette: Maintain at least 150 feet from loon nests. Keep noise levels low on the lake. Avoid approaching loons with paddling kayaks — they will abandon nests if disturbed.
• Moose at dawn: Early morning paddling (5–7 AM) along the marshy coves offers the best chance of spotting moose feeding at the water’s edge. Stay quiet and at a safe distance.
• Season: The park is open from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. Call 802-676-3930 for current conditions and reservations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Last updated: April 2026