Groton State Forest

Groton State Forest is a large protected forest in three counties in Vermont that includes seven state parks, eight lakes and ponds, and natural areas with mountains, wetlands, and various forest types. The land features diverse terrain where you can find open water, swampy areas, and tree-covered slopes all within the same region.

The forest was established in 1919 and later developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps, which built trails, facilities, and recreational areas that remain in use today. These early improvements shaped how the forest functions as a public space.

The forest serves as a hub for outdoor recreation where locals and visitors follow marked trails for hiking and skiing throughout the year. These pathways connect different parts of the landscape and shape how people move through and experience the forest.

The forest offers year-round activities including hiking, camping, swimming, and fishing on marked trails throughout the property. In winter, these same paths become routes for cross-country skiing and snowmobile riding.

Within the forest lies Peacham Bog Natural Area, where rare plants grow and a distinctive rounded dome shape was created by glacial processes thousands of years ago. Walking through this boggy section shows you geological features that differ from the rest of the forest.

Location: Caledonia County

Location: Orange County

Location: Washington County

Inception: 1919

Website: https://fpr.vermont.gov/groton-state-forest

GPS coordinates: 44.27600,-72.29140

Latest update: December 14, 2025 12:22