Lake Carmi State Park

With a 1375-acre surface area, Carmi is the fourth largest natural lake entirely within Vermont. It is 7.5 miles around, averaging about 20 feet in depth, and is 33 feet at its deepest point.  The lake supports northern pike, walleyes, and other warm water species. The lake drains north into Quebec’s Pike River, then into Lake Champlain. Lake Carmi was once much larger. In the thousands of years since the last ice age, the southern end of the original lake has silted in, creating wetland forests and the third largest peat bog in Vermont.

Most of the 140-acre bog lies within Lake Carmi State Park and is a designated State Natural Area. Natural Areas have been set aside for the preservation and protection of their unique ecological, geological, or scenic and contemplative values. The road to Camping Area “B” cuts through the bog and is the northern boundary of the Natural Area. The high ground on which Camping Area “B” is built would be an island if not for the bog.

Facilities / Amenities:

The campground has 138 tent/RV sites, 35 lean-to sites, and 2 cabins, making it the largest in the state. The campground has restrooms with hot and cold running water and coin-operated hot showers. There is an RV dump station but there are no hookups. Most sites are large enough to accommodate self-contained RVs. There are swimming beaches in both camp areas. There is also a day use beach with a nature center, restrooms and rental boats.

Activities

Camping: 138 tent/RV sites and 35 lean-to's make this the largest campground in the state. There are also 2 cabins available to rent.
Hiking: There are some easy walking trails through the park.
Swimming: There are swimming areas with sandy beaches in both camping areas. There is also a day use beach with a designated swimming area.
Boating: Boats are welcome at the park. There is a boat launch, and boats can be rented from the park office.
Fishing: Perch, walleye and pike are among some of the fish swimming in Lake Carmi. This park also participates in the Reel Fun Program. Click here to learn more about Reel Fun fishing at the park (PDF)
Picnicking: Lots of great grassy areas for picnics. There are also picnic tables throughout the day use areas.
Stand-up Padding Boarding: SUP's are available to rent.
Nature Programs: This park offers nature programs. Please call the park directly for more information.
Horseshoes: There are two horseshoe pits at the park.
Volleyball: There is a volleyball net in the day use field.