Lake Willoughby - Image 1
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Lake Willoughby Vermont

4.8
·267 reviews·Westmore, United States

A stunning glacial lake in Vermont's Northeast Kingdom, offering breathtaking mountain views, sandy beaches, and hiking trails.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Warm water, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Lake Willoughby - Image 1

Lake Willoughby Vermont

Best Time

Summer mornings

Warm water, fewer crowds

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A stunning glacial lake in Vermont's Northeast Kingdom, offering breathtaking mountain views, sandy beaches, and hiking trails.

4.8
(267 reviews)

"Wow is all I can say. The views here are incredible! The beach is sandy, not rocky, and very nice."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Parking Strategy

Arrive early for South Beach parking. North Beach offers free parking and easier access.

🩱 Beach Choices

South Beach has nude sunbathers; North Beach is more family-friendly.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

South Lake Willoughby Beach

South Lake Willoughby Beach

South Beach

Sandy shores, warm, clear water, and stunning mountain backdrops. Perfect for swimming and picnics.

Mount Pisgah Hike

Mount Pisgah Hike

Trailhead near South Beach

Challenging hike rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the lake and surrounding landscape.

North Beach

North Beach

North Beach

Easier parking, porta-potties, and a great spot for a more conventional beach day with lovely views.

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Planning Your Visit

Parking Pointers

Parking can be tricky, especially at South Beach. Arrive early or consider North Beach for easier access and free parking. E-bike rentals are available for exploring.

Beach Etiquette

South Beach is known for its nude sunbathers, so be aware if you're visiting with children. North Beach offers a more traditional beach experience with amenities.

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Warm water, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Fall weekdays
Why
Spectacular foliage, less busy
Crowd
Low
When
Weekends (early)
Why
Good for swimming, parking easier
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

lake willoughby is an absolute dream

🚗 Parking Strategy

Arrive early for South Beach parking. North Beach offers free parking and easier access. Reddit

🩱 Beach Choices

South Beach has nude sunbathers; North Beach is more family-friendly. Reddit

reddit.com

Lake Willoughby

reddit.com

my mother just sent me this picture that she almost certainly took off of Facebook and she said "Kancamaugus Highway overlooking Lake Winnespesaukee, NH." I'm 99% positive this NOT the Kanc...but not I'm curious where it is!

🛶 Paddle Adventures

Kayak and canoe rentals are available at Whitecaps Campground on the south end. Reddit

🥾 Hike for Views

Climb Mt. Pisgah for incredible lake vistas after a refreshing swim. Reddit

reddit.com

Camping at Lake Willoughby?

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Parking Strategy

Arrive early for South Beach parking. North Beach offers free parking and easier access. Reddit

🩱 Beach Choices

South Beach has nude sunbathers; North Beach is more family-friendly. Reddit

🛶 Paddle Adventures

Kayak and canoe rentals are available at Whitecaps Campground on the south end. Reddit

🥾 Hike for Views

Climb Mt. Pisgah for incredible lake vistas after a refreshing swim. Reddit

🚲 Explore by E-bike

Rent e-bikes to discover scenic paths and charming spots around the lake. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(267 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the incredible, breathtaking views and the sandy, warm waters of Lake Willoughby, making it a delightful spot for swimming and picnics. While parking at South Beach can be a hassle, North Beach offers a more accessible alternative. Some visitors were surprised by the nude sunbathers at South Beach, suggesting North Beach for families seeking a more conventional experience.

"Wow is all I can say. The views here are incredible! The beach is sandy, not rocky, and very nice. Water was warm on 8/9/25. Dogs are allowed on the south side, but not the north side."

Julio Duverney

"Nude beach
No signs, no warning, if you are a tourist with kids not great to see naked people. Its off to the side. Don't go on the southshore loop. Otherwise beautiful scenery. Water was amazing. Clean and well taken care of"

Marissa Rivera

"E bikes to rent and recommended paths. Lovely views. Boat launch. Seemed like it would be fantastic...if only I could have found parking. Ended up spending time at north beach instead (they have porta pottys and free parking) since I could easily find parking there. Great little waterfalls and places to stop along the lake."

Flora Quevedo

What People Like

Incredible views
Sandy beach
Warm, clear water

What People Dislike

South Beach parking
Nude sunbathers

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Lake Willoughby is located in Westmore, Vermont. It's accessible by car via scenic routes. The closest major towns are St. Johnsbury and Newport. GPS is recommended as cell service can be spotty in the area. Reddit

While the lake itself is prominent, parking can be a challenge. Many visitors recommend arriving early, especially on weekends during peak season. Reddit

Roads leading to Lake Willoughby are generally well-maintained, but can be winding. During fall, expect beautiful foliage drives. Winter access might be limited depending on snowfall. Reddit

Public transportation options are very limited in this rural area. Driving is the most practical way to visit Lake Willoughby. Reddit

South Beach is typically accessed via the main road through Westmore. North Beach is also signposted and offers a separate entrance and parking area. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There is no general entrance fee for Lake Willoughby itself. However, parking at South Beach can fill up quickly, and some visitors opt for North Beach which has free parking. Reddit

Lake Willoughby is a natural attraction and is generally accessible year-round. However, amenities like restrooms and rental services may have seasonal hours. Reddit

Parking cannot be booked in advance. It's first-come, first-served. Arriving early in the morning is highly recommended, especially during summer weekends. Reddit

Generally, no special permits are required for swimming, picnicking, or hiking. If you plan on launching a motorized boat, check local regulations for any required permits or fees. Reddit

Dogs are allowed on the south side of Lake Willoughby, but not on the north side. Always keep your pets leashed and clean up after them. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Visitors love swimming in the clear, warm waters, picnicking on the sandy beaches, hiking Mount Pisgah for stunning views, and kayaking or canoeing. Reddit

Yes, the water at Lake Willoughby is known for being clean, clear, and delightfully warm, especially during summer. Reddit

Absolutely! The hike up Mount Pisgah is a popular choice, offering rewarding panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Reddit

Kayak and canoe rentals are available at Whitecaps Campground, located at the south end of the lake. Reddit

South Beach offers a sandy shore and picnic areas. North Beach has porta-potties and free parking. E-bike rentals are also available. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The summit of Mount Pisgah offers unparalleled panoramic views. The shores of both South and North Beach provide beautiful lake and mountain vistas. Look for charming waterfalls along the access roads. Reddit

Sunrise and sunset offer dramatic lighting for photography. Mid-day can be bright, but the clear water and vibrant green surroundings are still photogenic. Fall foliage season is spectacular. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive lake and mountain scenery. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife or distant mountain details. A polarizing filter can enhance the colors of the water and sky. Reddit

Generally, photography is permitted for personal use. Be mindful of other visitors, especially at South Beach where some areas are designated for nude sunbathing. Reddit

The view from the top of Mount Pisgah is iconic. Other popular shots include the long, narrow shape of the lake framed by mountains, and the sandy shores of South Beach. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

For families, North Beach is generally the preferred spot due to its easier parking and more traditional beach atmosphere, avoiding the nude sunbathing areas found at South Beach. The clear, warm water is perfect for younger swimmers. Consider packing a picnic to enjoy at the beachside. While the hike up Mount Pisgah might be challenging for very young children, the lower trails offer some scenic walking opportunities. Reddit

Bringing along beach toys and flotation devices will enhance the swimming experience. Remember to check the weather forecast before you go, as conditions can change. The availability of porta-potties at North Beach is a practical plus for families. Reddit

🏞️ Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers

Nature lovers will be captivated by the stunning natural beauty of Lake Willoughby. The hike up Mount Pisgah is highly recommended for its spectacular vistas, offering a challenging but rewarding experience. The lake itself, a deep glacial lake, is surrounded by the striking Willoughby Gap, a geological marvel. Keep an eye out for local flora and fauna as you explore the trails and shoreline. Reddit

For those who enjoy water-based exploration, kayaking or canoeing provides an intimate way to experience the lake's tranquility and the dramatic cliffs that rise from its shores. The fall foliage season transforms the landscape into a vibrant tapestry of colors, making it an ideal time for photographers and leaf-peepers. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating Parking and Access

Parking at Lake Willoughby, particularly at the popular South Beach, can be a significant challenge, especially during peak summer weekends. Many visitors report arriving to find the main lot full. North Beach is often cited as a more reliable option for parking, offering free access and amenities like porta-potties. Some reviewers suggest arriving very early in the morning to secure a spot at South Beach. For those looking to explore beyond the immediate beach areas, e-bike rentals are available and recommended for discovering scenic paths and other points of interest around the lake. Reddit

It's important to be aware of the distinct atmosphere at South Beach, which is known to have areas designated for nude sunbathing. While signs may not be prominent, visitors with children might prefer the more conventional experience offered at North Beach. Understanding these differences can help ensure a more comfortable visit for everyone. Reddit

Activities for Every Visitor

Lake Willoughby offers a diverse range of activities catering to different preferences. Swimming is a major draw, with the lake boasting clean, clear, and surprisingly warm waters during the summer months. The sandy shores of South Beach provide a comfortable place to relax and soak up the sun. For the more adventurous, the hike up Mount Pisgah is a must-do. This trail offers a rewarding challenge and culminates in breathtaking panoramic views of the entire lake and the surrounding Vermont landscape. Reddit

Water sports enthusiasts can enjoy kayaking and canoeing. Rentals are conveniently located at Whitecaps Campground on the south end of the lake, making it easy to get out on the water and explore its serene beauty. The lake's unique geological formation, a glacially carved basin, adds to its scenic appeal and makes for a picturesque paddling experience. Reddit

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