BOULDER BEACH STATE PARK
This state park gets its name for the many large rocks left by glaciers on the sandy beach of Lake Groton and throughout Groton State Forest. The park is located on the eastern shore of 423-acre Lake Groton.
Native Americans historically traveled through the area now known as Groton to hunt, fish and gather wild crops. As early as 1704, French settlers were using routes through Groton to reach Canada and Massachusetts. Colonists settled this area of Vermont earlier than other parts of the State due to the network of waterways which provided relatively easy access.
The rocky, tree covered hillsides were originally made up of white pine, spruce, hemlock, beech, maple and birch and were logged in the 19th century by local farmers for lumber, fuel and potash. The logging industry was operated on a large scale for more than 100 years while the Montpelier and Wells River Railroad operated in the area.
Today, logging is still a vital industry Groton State Forest is managed for multiple uses--- including timber harvesting, wildlife habitat, and recreation. Groton State Forest, with over 26,000 acres, is the one of the largest contiguous tracts of public lands managed by the Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation.
This park is a day-use-only park, though there are many picnic sites throughout. There are also restrooms with flush toilets, hot and cold running water, changing rooms, a concession stand and boat rentals.
1. Boulder Beach State Park offers a large sandy beach for swimming.
2. The park's clear, shallow water is perfect for families with children.
3. Lifeguards are on duty during peak summer months ensuring safety while swimming.
4. Swimming areas are marked by buoys to prevent boating accidents and designate safe zones.
5. There's also an area designated specifically for scuba diving near the swim zone in Groton Lake.
Enjoy fishing on the shores of Lake Groton, home to species like yellow perch, smallmouth bass and walleye. Boat rentals are available for those who prefer deep-water angling. Ice fishing is popular during winter months when conditions permit it.