Barton Public Beach and Campgrounds, Barton, VT

Introduction / Overview

For Vermonters seeking an accessible and amenity-rich lakeside retreat right in the heart of the Northeast Kingdom, the Barton Public Beach and Campgrounds, officially known as Pageant Park, stands out as a genuine local treasure. Located on the serene shores of Crystal Lake, this park offers a unique combination of town-owned public beach access and dedicated camping facilities. Unlike the larger, often bustling, Crystal Lake State Park nearby, Pageant Park provides a slightly quieter, more intimate option for locals to enjoy the clear, beautiful waters of the lake.

The park holds a charming history, named after a significant community pageant held over a century ago to celebrate Barton Town's anniversary—a true testament to its deep roots in the village. Today, it remains open to the public during the summer season, offering a well-maintained sandy beach area and a campground with recent upgrades to ensure a comfortable stay. Whether you are looking for a weekend spot for your fully-equipped RV, a simple tent site, or just a relaxing day trip to the beach, Pageant Park provides a family-friendly environment and a great value for those in the local community.

As a municipal park, it operates with specific rules designed to maintain a clean and enjoyable environment for all visitors. This includes restrictions on alcohol and a focus on maintaining quiet hours, which helps to ensure a peaceful stay. The park is a fantastic gateway to the broader recreational opportunities of the Northeast Kingdom, while keeping essential village amenities just a short distance away.

Location and Accessibility

Barton Public Beach and Campgrounds is conveniently located at State 16, Eastern Ave, Barton, VT 05822, USA. It is situated on the tranquil outskirts of Barton Village, providing a sense of seclusion and natural beauty while remaining highly accessible. Its location on Crystal Lake makes it an ideal spot for water-based recreation and lakeside relaxation.

The park's proximity to the Village of Barton is a significant advantage for local users. A short drive or walk connects campers to local restaurants, stores, the library, and other essential amenities, bridging the gap between a rustic outdoor experience and the convenience of town life. Furthermore, Pageant Park serves as a great launch point for exploring the wider Northeast Kingdom. Nearby attractions include the renowned Kingdom Trails for mountain biking, the stunning Lake Willoughby with its famous hiking on Mount Pisgah and Mount Hor, and the various local fairs and cultural spots. The ease of access, combined with its centralized location for regional exploration, makes it a perfectly situated destination for a Vermont vacation or weekend getaway. Day-use visitors will also appreciate the convenient parking and entry, though non-residents have a small daily access fee.

Services Offered

As a well-maintained public facility, Pageant Park offers essential services tailored for both day visitors and overnight campers.

Campsite Options: The park offers a number of dedicated campsites, including 15 RV sites and additional tent sites, which can be rented nightly or seasonally.
Full Utility Hookups: All RV campsites were upgraded in 2017 to include full utility hookups (Water, Sewer, and Electric).
Dedicated Electric Metering: Seasonal RV sites include individual electric metering, managed through the Barton Village Electric Department, with water and sewer included in the seasonal fee.
Basic Site Amenities: Every campsite includes a fire ring and a picnic table.
Restroom and Sanitary Facilities: A bathhouse with restroom facilities is on-site. The park also provides a sanitary dump station for RV users.
Pavilion Rental: An open-air pavilion is available to rent for events, which can accommodate approximately 50 people and includes picnic tables.
Day-Use Amenities: Grills are available in the beach area for public use, alongside swimming, horseshoes, badminton, and volleyball courts.
Watercraft Access: Non-motorized boats—such as canoes, kayaks, paddle boats, and paddle boards—are permitted to be launched from the park (Motorized boat launching is not allowed, but is available at the State Fishing Access nearby).
Pet Policy: Pets are allowed on a leash and must be controlled and cleaned up after at all times, but they are generally prohibited in the designated swimming area.

Features / Highlights

Barton Public Beach and Campgrounds' key highlights are its prime location and community focus, offering a comfortable and engaging outdoor environment.

Crystal Lake Beach Access: The park provides a beautiful public beach on Crystal Lake, perfect for swimming and sunbathing, offering a calmer alternative to the State Park.
Historical Pageant Park Setting: The park's name, Pageant Park, reflects its deep historical ties to the Barton community, giving the area a unique, locally cherished identity.
Full-Hookup RV Sites: The upgrade to full utility hookups at all RV sites in 2017 provides a high level of convenience and comfort, especially appreciated by seasonal campers.
Local Community Benefits: Barton Village residents receive free season passes for day use, emphasizing its role as a key local amenity.
Non-Motorized Boating: Enthusiasts can easily launch canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards directly from the park to enjoy the serene waters of Crystal Lake.
Family-Friendly Atmosphere: The park is ideal for families, offering a playground, designated swimming area, and fields for games like horseshoes and volleyball.
Close to Village Center: Located just outside Barton Village, campers have incredibly convenient access to grocery stores, restaurants, and other community businesses.

Contact Information

Address: State 16, Eastern Ave, Barton, VT 05822, USA

Phone: Contact the Barton Village Office for booking and information: (802) 525-4747

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Vermonters, Barton Public Beach and Campgrounds (Pageant Park) is much more than just a place to pitch a tent; it is a community-run recreational resource that provides exceptional value and accessibility. Its designation as a public beach and campground, with fee benefits for Barton Village residents, highlights its role as a local amenity, ensuring that a stunning piece of the Northeast Kingdom is kept affordable and available. The full utility hookups for RVs and the option for seasonal camping make it practical for locals looking to establish a summer base camp without lengthy travel. Beyond the park gates, the location acts as a perfect hub for regional adventure—from mountain biking on the Kingdom Trails to hiking in the Willoughby State Forest. In essence, Pageant Park offers a peaceful, well-serviced, and historically connected gateway to all the best outdoor activities the region has to offer, making it an indispensable asset and a perfect choice for Vermont families seeking a convenient, comfortable, and classic lakeside camping experience.