If you’re planning on heading to Vermont for a camping and hiking trip you may want to consider a visit to Brighton State Park, which is located close to Island Pond. The park is an ideal place for a summer adventure as it’s open between the Memorial Day and Columbus Day weekends. You can even take your pet along when camping however; they aren’t allowed on the day beach.
Brighton State Park is perfect for those who want to escape the city life and head to the remoteness of the countryside. You’ll see plenty of tree-covered mountains, beautiful crystal-clear lakes and fast-running-streams. If you’re an avid fisherman you can always head explore around the area of Island Pond as there are some exceptional fishing locations there. There are also some good hunting spots and plenty of hiking trails for the adventurous types.
Island Pond used to be quite an important community from the late 19th century up until the Great Depression. It’s the site of America’s first international railway junction as it linked the line from Portland, Maine up to Montreal, Canada. In fact, the junction contained 13 different rail lines and the town was booming with loggers and railway workers back in its heyday. Today, you’ll find there are just two train tracks remaining here. However, the railroading culture is still alive and the historic train station is still standing.
Brighton State Park actually sits on Spectacle Pond. There’s a sandy beach and bathhouse, but these are located on Island Pond, and are just a short hike from the park’s campground on Spectacle Pond. There’s plenty of room for campers as there are about 60 sites for tents and trailers as well as five cabins for those who aren’t too fond of sleeping under the stars. In addition, you’ll find about two dozen lean-tos available.
There are hot showers and restrooms as well as a sanitary dump station, but there aren’t any hook-ups. The cabins can sleep up to four people as they are outfitted with bunk beds and either a sleeper couch or futon. There’s also a table with a couple of chairs and an electrical outlet as well as a front porch and cooking grate on a fire ring. The showers and bathroom are just a stone’s throw away.
In addition, you can rent boats at the park and you’ll find an amphitheater, nature museum, play area, and garage theater. The campground is an ideal baser to explore the surrounding area. These include the Bald Mountain Fish Hatchery, Fairbanks Museum and Planetarium, and the Maple Grove Museum. These are all quite intriguing places and well worth a visit from the campground.
Many families spend a long weekend or a week at the park since there are numerous activities to enjoy and sites to explore. The scenery is quite fascinating and it’s easy to see why many people return to the park year after year for their camping holidays. There are also several other campgrounds and parks in the surrounding area that are quite beautiful.
