V T Forest Services

For residents and visitors in the heart of Vermont, V T Forest Services represents the gateway to one of the most authentic and historically rich outdoor experiences in the Green Mountain State. Primarily overseeing the developed recreation at Coolidge State Park, this service ensures that the sprawling 21,500-acre Calvin Coolidge State Forest remains a pristine destination for those who seek to reconnect with nature. Known for its "slice of heaven" atmosphere, the area managed by V T Forest Services is celebrated for its preservation of the rustic 1930s character established by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). For local Vermonters, this isn't just a place to pitch a tent; it is a storied landscape where mountain vistas and deep forest silence provide a true sanctuary from the modern world.

The centerpiece of the operations in this region is the developed campground at Coolidge State Park. It is unique among Vermont’s recreation areas because it features an entire loop dedicated to lean-to campsites, many of which are perched on hillsides that offer what many consider the finest views in the state. From these vantage points, campers can look out over the Black River Valley and the undulating peaks of the Green Mountains. The commitment of V T Forest Services to maintaining this "authentic character" means that the park avoids the commercialized feel of many modern campgrounds, instead focusing on the simple, quiet pleasures of woodland life and historical exploration.

Location and accessibility are vital considerations for those planning a visit to the Bridgewater and Plymouth area. V T Forest Services is located at the intersection of the Plymth and Bridgewater communities, specifically addressed as 855 Coolidge State Park Road, Plymouth, VT 05056. The park entrance is situated approximately two miles north of the junction of Route 100 and Route 100A. It is important for local users to note that the entrance road is approximately 0.9 miles long, steep, and relatively narrow. While it is accessible to most standard vehicles and smaller campers, it can be challenging for very large trailers or massive RVs. This geographic elevation is exactly what provides the dramatic overlooks that make the park so famous among the Vermont hiking and camping community.

The services offered through V T Forest Services at the Coolidge facilities are designed to support a rugged yet comfortable outdoor stay. While the park emphasizes a "back-to-basics" feel, the essential infrastructure is well-maintained to ensure guest safety and convenience. Because the forest is home to active wildlife, including black bears and moose, the services also include educational components and specialized storage solutions to help campers co-exist with the environment. Key services include:

• Campground management for 26 tent/RV sites and 36 specialized lean-to shelters arranged in two distinct loops.
• Operation of a seasonal Nature Center where guests can participate in interpretive programs and learn about local wildlife and history.
• Maintenance of four central restroom facilities featuring modern flush toilets and hot and cold running water.
• Token-operated hot shower services, with tokens available for purchase at the park contact station.
• Reservation management via the Vermont State Parks system, allowing for advanced booking of prime hillside sites.
• Sanitary dump station services for RV users, though it is important to note there are no individual water or electric hookups.
• Firewood sales on-site to prevent the spread of invasive insects, following strict state guidelines.
• Emergency and safety oversight provided by on-site park rangers and staff.

The features and highlights of this region are centered on the sheer scale of the Coolidge State Forest and the specific amenities found within the developed park area. Whether you are a solo hiker or a family looking for "good for kids" activities, the highlights of this destination are diverse. The park's design maximizes its hilltop location, making every sunrise a potential highlight of the trip. Notable features include:

• Sweeping mountain views of the Black River Valley, particularly from the lean-to loop.
• A historic log picnic pavilion available for rent, which can seat up to 70 people and features electricity, grills, and a fireplace.
• Extensive hiking trails within the park, including the Slack Hill Trail (2.5 miles) and the CCC Trail (1.5 miles), which offer views of Mount Ascutney on clear days.
• Pet-friendly policies that allow leashed dogs throughout the park and in most camping areas.
• Horse camping capabilities at specific large sites (sites 10, 11, 12, 16, 19, and 23), with access to miles of Class 3 and 4 town highways for riding.
• Proximity to the Calvin Coolidge Presidential Homestead and Historic Site in nearby Plymouth Notch.
• Recreational game areas including horseshoe pits and a children’s play area near the picnic grounds.
• Access to several nearby streams that are home to elusive native brook trout for fly-fishing enthusiasts.
• Collaborative access to Camp Plymouth State Park, where campers can enjoy swimming and boat rentals on Echo Lake without additional entry fees.

For those wishing to inquire about current conditions, seasonal dates, or specific site availability, contact information is readily available. V T Forest Services at Coolidge State Park can be reached by phone at (802) 672-3612. The park typically operates from the Friday of Memorial Day weekend through the second Monday in October. For broader questions regarding the management of the 21,500-acre forest or for emergency park matters, users can also coordinate through the Vermont Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation central offices.

What is worth choosing about this destination is the unparalleled sense of peace and the quality of the views. For a local Vermonter, choosing Coolidge State Park via V T Forest Services means choosing a "trip back in time." It is specifically worth choosing for those who prefer the shelter and character of a lean-to over traditional tent camping. The lean-tos here provide a dry, elevated, and sturdy base for your gear while keeping you fully immersed in the sights and sounds of the forest. Furthermore, the ability to use this park as a base camp for exploring the presidential history of Plymouth Notch or for mountain biking the gravel roads of the state forest adds layers of value that you won't find at more isolated campgrounds.

Ultimately, this "slice of heaven" is worth choosing because it represents the very best of Vermont’s public land management. The staff is consistently praised for maintaining immaculate facilities and providing helpful, friendly service. Whether you are looking for a challenging hike to the summit of Slack Hill or a quiet evening on a porch swing overlooking the valley, the area managed by V T Forest Services provides the infrastructure to make those moments possible. It is a premier choice for anyone who values the heritage of the Vermont wilderness and wants a reliable, beautifully maintained place to experience it.