Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Woodford State Park is a scenic 850-acre state park located in Bennington County, Vermont, within the Green Mountain National Forest. It occupies forested uplands and stretches along the eastern shore of the 102-acre Lake Shaftsbury, providing visitors with a mix of forest trails and water recreation. The park’s landscape is dominated by northern hardwood forests, with species such as maple, birch, and beech, supporting abundant local wildlife including white-tailed deer, moose, and various bird species. Established in 1963, Woodford State Park was developed as a designated camping and recreation area, offering visitors proximity to both lake activities and mountain hikes. The park features a developed campground with more than 66 campsites set among shaded woods, giving a peaceful overnight experience amid Vermont’s natural beauty. Lake Shaftsbury is a popular spot for swimming, canoeing, and fishing, known for brook trout and bass. Hiking trails within the park and surrounding Green Mountain National Forest vary from easy nature walks to moderate climbs, allowing exploration of wooded ridges and peaceful backcountry settings. The park also serves as a gateway to the Taconic Crest Trail, a long-distance route that traverses the Vermont-Massachusetts border region. Woodford State Park appeals to visitors seeking a quiet outdoor getaway with opportunities for camping, fishing, hiking, paddling, and wildlife observation in a less crowded portion of Vermont’s forested mountain region.
