When people think of Vermont, they often picture mountains, lakes and forests along with the quintessential towns and covered bridges of our state. While these things are abundant in the Green Mountain State, beaches are often an afterthought. The truth is our beaches are not only wonderful, but they are nestled on the shores of our beautiful lakes with fabulous mountain vistas in the distance. Here are the 12 best beaches in Vermont that are located in some of the wonderful Vermont State Parks. The parks are impeccably maintained and each beach has restroom facilities with running water, and many have onsite boat rentals and snack bars. Beaching has never been so easy!

From hiking and camping, to boating and beaching, the State Parks have everything you could ever need or want to have the most epic summer in Vermont possible. Pick a beach and start planning for the next sunny day!

1. Sand Bar State Park, Milton

A 2,000-foot beach with a smooth, sandy lake bottom remains shallow well out from shore, making it an ideal swimming spot for children. The high quality water in this section of the lake, along with well-kept facilities in a beautiful setting, make Sand Bar the best swimming in Vermont and the most visited day park in the state.

2. Bomoseen State Park, Castleton

Spend a summer day at the sandy beach in Bomoseen State Park, one of the best places to visit in summer in Vermont. You'll love the newly renovated beach house and playground! Stunning views, nearby camping and hours upon hours of relaxing fun this summer.

3. Boulder Beach State Park, Groton

Plan to grill and spend the entire day at one of the 75 shaded picnic sites with tables and hibachis. Enjoy the 200-foot beach and swimming area, cartop boat launch, play area and a convenient concession stand. Canoes, kayaks and pedal boats are available to rent if you don't have your own. Have fun!

4. Crystal Lake State Park, Barton

This lovely shot of the dawn mist at Crystal Lake State Park is just a fraction of the draw to this beach. The beach area has almost a mile of sandy shoreline with a marked swimming area. The large historic granite bathhouse has rest rooms, changing areas and a concession stand. Plan to cook out on one of the 40 free standing charcoal grills and use one of the nearly 80 picnic tables. Take advantage of the play areas or boat and canoe rentals, too.

5. Silver Lake State Park, Barnard

Is everyone ready to jump into Silver Lake? The dock makes an amazing diving board into this favorite beach. Come see why so many people think this is the best beach in Vermont!

6. Camp Plymouth State Park, Plymouth

Whether you're visiting for the day or camping in one of the group camping areas on the south side of Buffalo Brook, you'll love the sandy beach, large field, play area, horseshoe pits, concession stand and a boat rental. Who wouldn't want to canoe here while watching the spectacular sunsets?

7. Branbury State Park, Salisbury

Spend the day at the beach and stay overnight at one of the 20 tent sites or 7 lean-tos, located in a heavily wooded area. If you prefer a grassy perimeter, enjoy one of the 17 tent/RV sites. There is something for everyone at this stunning spot.

8. Elmore State Park, Elmore

This aerial shot shows the gorgeous lake as well as the sandy beach. A family favorite, this area has a sandy beach, grassy areas, and an indoor area with a snack bar and bathrooms. Get ready for some fun on top of the water as well - canoes, kayaks, pedal boats and stand up paddleboards are available for rent. This is also a wonderful place for group gatherings or family reunions.

9. Burton Island State Park, St. Albans

This mostly rocky beach in the Burton Island State Park is a popular destination for camping and hiking. Part of what makes this such a special place is that it's only accessible by boat or ferry. Enjoy a great breakfast or lunch (or perhaps ice cream or other sweet treat) at the bistro located right on the island. A family fun favorite with loads of water activities abound... Not to mention those sunsets!

10. Maidstone State Park, Maidstone

Located at the end of a 6 mile dirt road, Maidstone is one of the most remote of the State Parks. Along with a great beach, this area has great trout and salmon fishing. Check out the nesting loons - they sure picked a pretty spot!

11. Waterbury Center State Park, Waterbury

Don't miss an opportunity to paddle board, kayak or canoe around the scenic Waterbury Reservoir this summer! Boat rentals are available, and the grassy area and sandy beach are a great place to cool down this summer. Be sure to visit nearby Ben & Jerry's after your day in the sun!

12. Lake St. Catherine State Park, Poultney

This former children's summer camp is a popular spot for beaching, picnics, camping, boating and fishing. Boat rentals are available here too - what are you waiting for?

A special thank you to the Vermont State Parks for giving us diverse, beautiful and pristine places to enjoy nature. All photos above are courtesy of and property of Vermont State Parks. Check out some of the best beaches in Vermont for yourself!

What do you think are the best beaches in Vermont? Would you add any other beaches to this list? Let us know by leaving a comment below.

If you are still looking for more summer adventure in Vermont, check out this article HERE of seven pristine and hidden beaches in Vermont that you'll want to visit this summer!