This 25,000 plus acre forest is the second largest contiguous landholding by the State of Vermont. This scenic and rugged place is known primarily for its developed camping facilities, but offers a wide range of outdoor recreational opportunities. Though only a half-hour drive from Barre, Montpelier, or St. Johnsbury, this forest retains a sense of wilderness and supports a wide variety of wildlife, including black bear, moose, deer, grouse, mink, beaver, otter, fisher, loons and herons. A variety of fish can be found in the clear ponds and brooks.

Forest History: The forest's history is primarily one of intensive logging, beginning in 1873 with the opening of the Montpelier to Wells River railroad that ran through the forest (now a park trail), and ending in the 1920's when most of the timber was cut. Several fires, especially the severe one of 1903, changed the landscape from spruce, fir and pine to the red maple and yellow and white birch we now mostly see. The Civilian Conservation Corps, encamped near Osmore Pond in the 1930's, was responsible for plantations of pine and spruce. Presently, the Groton State Forest is being managed as a multiple use unit by the Department of Forests and Parks in an attempt to provide maximum recreational, wildlife, water and wood product and use benefits.

Trail System: A year round trail system connects most major points of interest. Peacham Bog Natural Area (700 acres) contains one of the largest bogs in Vermont and offers some interesting and unusual plants and animals. The summit of Owlshead Mountain, accessible by trail or the summer road that leads almost to the top, offers spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Developed Facilities: Developed facilities in Groton State Forest include campgrounds (New Discovery, Big Deer, Stillwater, and Ricker), the Kettle Pond Group Camping Area, Boulder Beach on Lake Groton with a nearby nature/interpretive center, and Seyon Ranch a flyfishing retreat.

Click image for larger view Additional Area Information: | Area Events | Attractions | Arts | Recreation | Historic Sites | VT Products | Lodging | Dining | Shopping | Central Vermont Chamber of Commerce © 2002, All rights reserved. CV chamber / P.O. Box 336 / Barre, Vermont 05641 (802)-229-4619   GO TO: [email protected]