Lake Paran
A serene Vermont lake offering swimming, fishing, birdwatching, and the unique tradition of stone skipping.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peace
Lake Paran
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peace
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene Vermont lake offering swimming, fishing, birdwatching, and the unique tradition of stone skipping.
"Beautiful lake, plenty of parking, nice clean beach. Great place to sit and enjoy a beautiful view and relax."
🎯 Pack a Picnic Lunch
Grab a delicious sandwich or smoothie from Shaftsbury Country Store for a perfect lakeside meal.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Explore the grounds and enjoy the scenic views with footwear suitable for walking.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Stone Skipping World Championship
Lake Paran
Witness or participate in the legendary stone skipping festival, a unique event drawing enthusiasts from afar.
+1
Tranquil Lakeside Views
Throughout the lake
Enjoy peaceful moments by the water, with beautiful mountain backdrops and clean, clear waters perfect for relaxation.
Wildlife Spotting Opportunities
Lake Paran surroundings
Keep an eye out for diverse bird species, including bald eagles, making Lake Paran a haven for nature lovers.
Prize-Winning Bass Fishing
Backside near boat ramp
Anglers can test their skills, with reports of impressive large-mouth bass catches. Remember to practice catch and release!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Lake Paran
Lake Paran Essentials
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Pack a Picnic Lunch
Grab a delicious sandwich or smoothie from Shaftsbury Country Store for a perfect lakeside meal.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Explore the grounds and enjoy the scenic views with footwear suitable for walking.
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Bring sunscreen and a hat to fully enjoy your time in the sun by the lake.
🎣 Catch and Release
If you're fishing, remember to release your catch so others can enjoy the experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Pack a Picnic Lunch
Grab a delicious sandwich or smoothie from Shaftsbury Country Store for a perfect lakeside meal.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Explore the grounds and enjoy the scenic views with footwear suitable for walking.
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Bring sunscreen and a hat to fully enjoy your time in the sun by the lake.
🎣 Catch and Release
If you're fishing, remember to release your catch so others can enjoy the experience.
📸 Capture the Sunrise
The early morning light over Lake Paran creates stunning, colorful skies.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Lake Paran for its beautiful, clean lake, ample parking, and relaxing atmosphere, often noting it's not crowded. The beach and surrounding nature are highlights. However, some guests have encountered rude staff at the payment desk, which detracts from the otherwise peaceful experience.
"The workers behind the desk when you go to pay are insanely rude. Me and my girlfriend were walking in and all we did was ask if we had to pay and as we start walking away because she said “yeah “ in a very rude way we start hearing the two girls behind the desk start laughing at us. Places like lake paren are family locations and nobody wants that rude of service."
Avah Hammond
"Beautiful lake. Plenty of parking. Nice clean Beach. Two docks by the beach. One dock out in the lake. Plenty of lawn area to rest and relax and put up a chair water's clean . Great place to sit and enjoy a beautiful view and relax. Indoor bathrooms and a concession stand as you first come in."
Stevie
"My husbands prize catch of all time I asked why he was holding it like that he said because he wanted to show just how big around this large mouth bass was and he has big hands.
Weighed just a little over 11LBS he said…
But I recall the scale saying 10.8oz so lol.
But it was legit about the size of his whole torso length from head to tail.
Took a good 6 minutes to get it in..
Yes if your question is did he (RELEASE) he sure DID SO ITS STILL IN THERE FOR ANOTHER LUCKY FISHERMAN TO HIT.
He caught it on the backside where the boat ramp is
Good luck"
Karen Susee
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lake Paran is located in North Bennington, Vermont. While specific public transport options are limited, driving is the most common way to access the lake. Many visitors find it a convenient stop when exploring the surrounding Vermont countryside.
Yes, there is plenty of parking available at Lake Paran, making it easy for visitors to access the beach and grounds.
Yes, there is a boat ramp available at Lake Paran, allowing visitors to launch their own boats and enjoy the water.
Information on specific accessibility features can vary. It's recommended to contact the park directly for the most up-to-date details on accessibility for visitors with disabilities.
Lake Paran is situated near North Bennington, Vermont. The Shaftsbury Country Store is also a short drive away, offering convenient picnic supplies.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is an entrance fee to access Lake Paran. Visitors have reported being asked to pay upon arrival.
Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Lake Paran website or contact them directly for the most current hours of operation.
Information on advance ticket purchases is not widely available. Typically, payment is made upon arrival at the park.
Lake Paran hosts an annual stone skipping festival, which is a popular and unique event.
Admission typically grants access to the beach, lawn areas, docks, and indoor bathrooms. A concession stand is also available.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Visitors can enjoy swimming at the clean beach, relaxing on the lawn, fishing, bird watching, and participating in or watching the stone skipping festival.
Yes, Lake Paran features a nice, clean beach area perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
Yes, there are indoor bathrooms available for visitors at Lake Paran.
Yes, swimming is a popular activity at Lake Paran, with its clean waters and designated beach area.
Lake Paran is often described as not crowded, offering a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere, especially on weekdays.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a concession stand located near the entrance of Lake Paran that offers food and drinks.
Visitors are welcome to bring their own food and enjoy picnics by the lake. The Shaftsbury Country Store is a great spot to pick up picnic supplies.
While specific menus can vary, concession stands typically offer snacks, drinks, and light meal options.
The Shaftsbury Country Store, a short drive away, offers sandwiches and drinks, making it a convenient option for a meal.
Information regarding alcohol policies is not readily available. It's advisable to check with park management or local regulations.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire lake offers beautiful scenery, but the docks, beach area, and surrounding mountains provide excellent photo opportunities. Sunrises and sunsets are particularly stunning.
Absolutely! Lake Paran is a great place to spot birds, including bald eagles, so bring your telephoto lens if you're a wildlife photographer.
Yes, the stone skipping festival offers dynamic action shots. Capturing the skip and the participants can make for exciting photographs.
Early mornings for sunrise and late afternoons for sunset offer the best light for photography. Midday can be bright but still offers beautiful views.
Drone usage policies can vary by location and park regulations. It's essential to check with Lake Paran management or local authorities regarding drone operation.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Packing a picnic is a great idea, as it allows for a relaxed mealtime amidst nature. Consider stopping by the Shaftsbury Country Store for kid-friendly treats and sandwiches. While the stone skipping festival is exciting, it might be more crowded, so consider a weekday visit for a more tranquil family outing.
🎣 Anglers and Fishing Enthusiasts
Remember to practice catch and release to help preserve the lake's fish population for future anglers. The peaceful environment of Lake Paran also makes for a relaxing fishing experience, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the activity.
🚶♀️ Nature Lovers and Photographers
Keep your binoculars handy for birdwatching, as the area is known to host various species, including bald eagles. Participating in citizen science like the Great Backyard Bird Count adds an educational element to your visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Charm of Stone Skipping at Lake Paran
+1If you're visiting during the festival, expect a lively atmosphere. It's a chance to witness skilled stone skippers in action and perhaps even try your hand at it. The event highlights the playful and community-oriented side of Lake Paran, making it a memorable experience beyond just a scenic visit.
+1Even outside of the festival, the lake's calm waters are perfect for practicing your own stone skipping skills. It's a simple yet engaging activity that connects you with the natural environment and the playful traditions associated with lakes like Paran.
Nature and Wildlife Encounters
Participating in events like the Great Backyard Bird Count at Lake Paran contributes valuable data to scientific research on bird populations. This highlights the ecological importance of the area and encourages visitors to be mindful of the natural inhabitants.
Beyond birds, the peaceful atmosphere of Lake Paran, coupled with its scenic mountain backdrop, makes it an ideal spot for general nature appreciation. Whether you're fishing, picnicking, or simply enjoying the view, the natural beauty of Lake Paran is a significant draw.
Fishing and Lakeside Recreation
It's important to note the emphasis on responsible fishing practices. The story of the prize catch concludes with the angler releasing the fish, underscoring the importance of conservation and ensuring that the lake remains a thriving fishing spot for future generations.
Beyond fishing, Lake Paran offers a range of recreational activities. The clean beach is perfect for swimming, and the ample lawn area provides space for relaxation and picnics. Two docks by the beach and another out in the lake offer convenient access points for various water activities.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit