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State Forest · Vermont

Kendall Lake State Forest

Kendall Lake State Forest is a tranquil Vermont woodland offering diverse recreational activities in a serene forest setting centered around the scenic Kendall Lake.

State Forest2584+ Trails

Designation

State Forest

Total Wilderness Area

258

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Kendall Lake State Forest

Kendall Lake State Forest is a tranquil Vermont woodland offering diverse recreational activities in a serene forest setting centered around the scenic Kendall Lake.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Kendall Lake State Forest encompasses approximately 258 acres in northeastern Vermont, near the town of Glover. The forest features a mix of hardwoods and softwoods typical of the Northern Hardwood Forest region, including maple, birch, and spruce, which support a variety of wildlife such as white-tailed deer, black bears, and numerous bird species. The focal point of the forest is Kendall Lake, a small, clean waterbody that provides opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and wildlife observation. The terrain is gently rolling with well-maintained trails suitable for hiking and cross-country skiing. Historically, the area was used for timber harvesting, but today it is managed for conservation and low-impact outdoor recreation by the Vermont Department of Forests, Parks, and Recreation. Visitors enjoy quiet walks along the water’s edge and peaceful paddling trips, with the forest’s relatively compact size making it ideal for half-day visits or family outings. While the area lacks extensive developed facilities, its natural setting and ease of access offer a quiet retreat for residents and visitors looking to experience Vermont's natural landscapes without the crowds found in larger parks. The forest's location allows easy access to surrounding natural attractions and quaint nearby towns, adding to its appeal as a regional outdoor destination.

Field Guide · State Forest
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Kendall Lake State Forest

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Tranquil Beauty at Lake Willoughby★ 7.8⌖ 4 miKayaking
Lake Willoughby

Tranquil Beauty at Lake Willoughby

Explore Lake Willoughby in Westmore, VT, a serene haven ideal for kayaking and swimming. Enjoy hiking trails with vistas of dramatic cliffs. Best visited in summer with opportunities for photographers to capture its tranquil beauty.

Nature's Scenic Retreat at Willoughby State Forest★ 7.8⌖ 6 miHiking
Willoughby State Forest

Nature's Scenic Retreat at Willoughby State Forest

Explore Willoughby State Forest near Sutton, Vermont, featuring moderate hiking trails with scenic lake and cliff views. Enjoy swimming, kayaking, and wildlife watching in a quiet, rugged setting best visited from late spring through early fall.

Fishing in Lake Eden, Stowe★ 7.5⌖ 18 miFishing
5918-5922 Vermont Rte 100

Fishing in Lake Eden, Stowe

Enjoy fishing at Lake Eden, a quiet spot just 30 minutes from Stowe. Known for its variety of fish, including trout and bass, this lake features easy access and is beginner-friendly. Visit in spring or late summer for the best experience.

Kayaking on Green River Reservoir in Stowe★ 7.5⌖ 22 miKayaking
Hyde Park

Kayaking on Green River Reservoir in Stowe

Experience kayaking on the Green River Reservoir near Stowe, Vermont. Suitable for those seeking solitude and nature, paddling routes range from 1 to 6 miles, offering serene moments on calm waters. Ideal for adventure seekers, the area is remote but uncrowded, promising quiet encounters with nature.

Camping at Elmore State Park near Stowe★ 7.5⌖ 25 miCamping
831-799 VT-12

Camping at Elmore State Park near Stowe

Explore the camping opportunities at Elmore State Park near Stowe with car-accessible sites and activities like hiking the Elmore Mountain Trail and kayaking on Lake Elmore. Enjoyable for families, with vibrant foliage in spring and fall.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Kendall Lake with accessible shoreline for fishing and paddling✦ A diverse northern hardwood forest ecosystem supporting local wildlife✦ Quiet hiking trails ideal for birdwatching and nature photography✦ Winter cross-country skiing on groomed forest trails
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Kendall Lake State Forest

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Kendall Lake State Forest
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Kendall Lake State Forest
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Kendall Lake State Forest
Park Recreation

Canoeing

Available in Kendall Lake State Forest
Park Recreation

Cross-Country Skiing

Available in Kendall Lake State Forest
Park Recreation

Nature Photography

Available in Kendall Lake State Forest
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Kendall Lake State Forest.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free public access with no permits or fees required

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Kendall Lake State Forest

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Brownington
⌖ 2.86 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Brownington, Vermont

A quiet rural Vermont town offering peaceful outdoor experiences with rolling hills, gentle trails, and scenic paddling spots, ideal for travelers seeking low-key nature escapes.

Late Spring to Early Fall and WinterExplore Town
Barton
⌖ 2.93 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Barton, Vermont

A peaceful lakeside town offering classic Vermont outdoor adventures with easy access to water recreation, forests, and seasonal sports in the Northeast Kingdom.

Summer through FallExplore Town
Westmore
⌖ 4.23 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Westmore, Vermont

A tranquil haven in Vermont's Northeast Kingdom offering expansive wilderness for outdoor enthusiasts.

Glover
⌖ 5.69 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Glover, Vermont

A peaceful rural town offering classic Northeast outdoor adventures with lakeside paddling, scenic hiking, and tranquil winter sports in a low-traffic, natural setting.

Late Spring through Fall for paddling and hiking; Winter for snow sportsExplore Town
Irasburg
⌖ 7.02 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Irasburg, Vermont

A quiet rural town offering peaceful outdoor recreation amid Vermont's Northeast Kingdom with rolling hills, forests, and waterways perfect for low-key adventure seekers.

Late Spring to Early Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for skiing and snowmobilingExplore Town
Charleston
⌖ 7.28 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Charleston, Vermont

A quiet, nature-rich retreat offering pristine lakes, extensive backcountry trails, and seasonal outdoor pursuits in Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom.

Late Spring through Fall for warm-weather activities; Winter for snow sportsExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Kendall Lake State Forest

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.