Underhill State Park
"Essex is close enough for a half-day outing or an early start on a summit hike. Residents often visit for camping, scenic drives, and fall foliage trips."
A mountain park on Mount Mansfield’s western slope with camping, hiking access, and scenic forest views.
Little River State Park
"Essex visitors come for outdoor recreation that feels remote without requiring a long drive. The park’s campground and shoreline make it appealing for group outings."
A lakeside park on Waterbury Reservoir known for camping, boating, swimming, and scenic mountain views.
Button Bay State Park
"Visitors from Essex often head to Button Bay for camping and lake recreation. The park is an easy drive for a weekend getaway with scenic shoreline access."
A scenic Lake Champlain park known for camping, boating, swimming, and wide-open waterfront views.
Knight Island State Park
"Essex is close enough for day trips to the islands and overnight paddling adventures. Visitors from here often come for fishing, swimming, and a low-key lakeside escape."
A secluded boat-access island park on Lake Champlain offering primitive camping, swimming, fishing, and scenic paddling.
Burton Island State Park
"Essex visitors often head north for a quieter waterfront experience and excellent fishing opportunities. The park offers a change of pace from suburban life with open water and wooded shoreline."
A peaceful Lake Champlain island park known for camping, swimming, boating, and scenic waterfront views.