Sand Bar State Park
About
Sand Bar State Park is a Lake Champlain gem featuring a stunning natural sandy beach with shallow, calm waters perfect for young swimmers and waders. Located just minutes from Burlington, this family-friendly state park offers expansive shoreline, grassy picnic areas, and some of the safest swimming conditions in Vermont thanks to its gradual depth and protected sandbar formation.
Highlights
- ✓Massive natural sandbar creating extensive shallow swimming areas ideal for young children
- ✓Soft, sandy beach perfect for sandcastle building and beach play
- ✓Calm, protected waters with gentle waves
- ✓Beautiful Lake Champlain and mountain views
- ✓Spacious grassy picnic areas with tables and grills
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive before 11 AM on summer weekends to snag parking and prime picnic table spots near the beach,the lot fills up quickly on hot days
- 2.Bring water shoes as small rocks and zebra mussel shells can be sharp in some areas along the shoreline
- 3.The sandbar extends quite far out, creating an enormous shallow play area, but always supervise kids as depths change unexpectedly beyond the bar
- 4.Pack a canopy or beach umbrella as shade is limited,the grassy areas with trees fill up fast
- 5.Visit on weekday mornings for a more peaceful experience and cooler temperatures for little ones
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings from late June through August offer the warmest water and smallest crowds. Arrive between 10-11 AM when the park opens and before the midday heat peaks.
What to Know
Vermont state park day-use fees apply ($4 for adults, kids 3 and under free). Restrooms and changing facilities are available on-site. No food concessions, so pack your own lunch and plenty of water.
Seasonal Notes
Open late May through Labor Day weekend, weather permitting. Water temperatures are warmest in July and August. The park closes for the season after Labor Day, though the beach may still be accessible for walking in shoulder seasons.
Nearby Eats
The Bearded Frog (5 miles away) offers casual family dining with burgers and salads, or grab pizza and ice cream at Milton Village Pizza just 3 miles from the park.
More Activities Near Burlington
Leddy Beach
Leddy Beach is Burlington's premier family beach destination on Lake Champlain, offering the perfect combination of sandy shores and shallow swimming areas ideal for young children. With an on-site playground, picnic facilities, and gentle waves, it's a one-stop summer destination where families can easily spend an entire day enjoying lake life without venturing far from the city.
Oakledge Park
Oakledge Park is a Burlington gem offering families the perfect combination of beach fun and park amenities along beautiful Lake Champlain. Kids can splash in the sandy beach, burn energy on the playground, and families can enjoy picnics with stunning waterfront views. It's an ideal spot for a full morning or afternoon of outdoor play without breaking the bank.
Birds of Vermont Museum
The Birds of Vermont Museum offers a unique blend of natural history and outdoor exploration that captivates young nature lovers. Kids can discover beautifully carved bird specimens showcasing Vermont's avian wildlife, then explore miles of family-friendly nature trails through the surrounding woods where they might spot the real birds they just learned about inside.
Shelburne Museum
Shelburne Museum is a sprawling 45-acre campus featuring 39 buildings filled with folk art, quilts, vintage toys, carriages, and even a historic steamboat that kids can explore. The outdoor grounds offer plenty of space for children to roam between exhibits, discover beautiful gardens, and burn off energy while parents enjoy world-class collections in a relaxed, family-friendly setting.