Nestled within the forests of the 3,500-acre Bomoseen State Park sits the quiet area known as Half Moon Pond State Park that is perfect for RV campers and those wanting to enjoy recreational activities. The park is located in the dense woods of a small, sheltered basin and surrounds Half Moon Pond. The pond is the center of recreational activities within the park and features two swim beaches, boat rentals and fishing opportunities. The park is also a popular hiking destination that has a vast trail system that offers hikes for all ages and abilities.The park has an interpreter that offers fun, hands-on activities. Interpreters are park staff dedicated to helping you learn more about the natural and cultural history of the park. Some of the popular activities that are run by interpreters include night hikes, nature crafts, campfire programs and amphibian explorations.
The campground is renowned for being well maintained and feature 52 quiet, spacious and private non-powered sites. There are a mixture of waterfront camp sites and those that are off the pond, along with five furnished cabins for those looking for a more luxurious stay. Peak season in Half Moon Pond State Park runs from mid-May until mid-October.
Half Moon Pond State Park is located in south-west Vermont off Black Pond Road. Black Pond Road is the only way to access the park and you can find it via Hortonia Road from the north and Moscow Road from the south. The area in and around the park is quite remote and there are few major towns nearby. Some of the smaller towns are Hubbardton (around four miles away), Fair Haven (around eight miles away) and Benson (around nine miles away). The closest major city to Half Moon Pond State Park is Burlington which is around 60 miles to the north.
The roads in and around the park should be no problem to access as they are quite flat and well cleared from overhanging trees. During the wintertime there will be snow that could make the park inaccessible. Make sure you call the park office if you are planning to travel in the winter time to confirm that the park will be open and you won't be snowed out.
There is plenty of parking available for those visiting Half Moon Pond State Park.
The campground at Half Moon Pond State Park is one of the best in the area and is known for its large, private and quiet sites. The rangers who run the campground are also known to be great at answering any questions you have have and helping sort out any issues. Campsites are located in two different areas (to the north-west and the south-east of the lake) that will give you views of the pond or a more secluded forest camping experience.
In total there are 52 sites that are RV friendly in the campground with 15 having lake views. Amenities include multiple water collection points, multiple toilet blocks, a dump station, playground, volleyball court, ADA accessible sites and a horseshoe pit. Pets are allowed within the campground if they are kept on a leash and you should be able to get cell phone reception on most major service providers. Reservations are available up to the end of the current season. The campground is closed from mid-October until mid-May due to winter.
One of the better ways to relax during the summertime is to hit the beach and have a swim to cool off from the hot days. Half Moon Pond State Park contains two small, sandy beach locations that are suitable for you to swim in and sunbath on during your stay at the park. The beach on the northern side of the lake is closer to the 1-30 campgrounds and has a playground close to the beach entrance. On the eastern side of the lake there is a smaller beach that is close to toilets and water collection points.
Half Moon Pond is also a popular boating location for those visiting the park. Motorized boats are not allowed on the pond, however rowboats, kayaks, canoes and pedal boats are all welcomed to be used and are very popular. If you don't have a boat and you still want to get out on the water, you are in luck! Rentals are available from the park office during the peak season. You can choose from kayaks, canoes, pedal boats and rowboats.
Throughout the year at Half Moon Pond State Park there are various nature programs that are run by the resident interpreter who is stationed at the park. Some of the nature programs that are run by the parks interpreters include night hikes, nature crafts, campfire programs and amphibian explorations. If you want to find out more information on specifics of what programs are offered call the park office and they will assist you with your inquiry.
Unfortunately there are no public transportation options that will take you to Half Moon Pond State Park.
Love to hike? Half Moon Pond State Park has a vast trail system that offers hikes for all ages and abilities. There are multiple trails that you can choose from with some even linking up to the larger Bomoseen State Park that is located very close by. If you are looking for an easy trail we recommend the Half Moon Shore Trail. This lake-side walk around the shore of Half Moon Pond is very pretty and connects to the Glen Lake Trail if you desire a longer hike.
If you are a fishing enthusiast you will enjoy your time at Half Moon Pond State Park. The pond is a perfect location for fishing lovers of all ages and skill levels and you can fish off the banks of the pond or in non-motorized watercraft. The park participates in Reel Fun loaner program, which allows you to rent fishing gear free of charge. This program makes fishing accessibly to anyone and is a highlight of the park amenities.
Birding in Vermont is a very popular activity for locals and visitors who like to enjoy the peaceful sounds of nature and spot the animals that sing the songs of the park. There are over 380 different bird species found within the state of Vermont. Due to the differing habitat of Half Moon Pond State Park from the waters to the forests many of these species can be found in and around the park. Some of the common bird species found include the yellow warbler, wild turkey, ruffed grouse and many different waterfowl species.
