Button Bay State Park | Vergennes

Button Bay State Park is a public recreation area located on the eastern shore of Lake Champlain in Vergennes, Vermont.

Visual Characteristics

The park features a shoreline composed of smooth, rounded stones, primarily grey and white, with areas of exposed bedrock. The water of Lake Champlain is typically a deep blue, with occasional greenish hues depending on depth and algae presence. Inland, the terrain consists of mixed deciduous and coniferous forest, with moderate undergrowth. The park's elevation ranges from approximately 90 meters at the lake shore to 150 meters on the higher ridges.

Location & Access Logistics

Button Bay State Park is situated 11 kilometers northwest of Vergennes, Vermont. Access is via Button Bay Road, which connects to US Route 7. The drive from Vergennes takes approximately 15 minutes. The park has a dedicated parking lot with capacity for approximately 50 vehicles. Public transportation is not available directly to the park; visitors typically require private vehicles.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The geological formation of Button Bay is a result of glacial activity and subsequent erosion by Lake Champlain. The distinctive rounded stones are known as "buttonstones" due to their shape and size, a common feature along this section of the lake. The area has been managed as a state park since its establishment in 1964, preserving its natural state and providing recreational access.

Key Highlights & Activities

Activities include hiking on marked trails, such as the 1.5km Button Bay Nature Trail which offers views of the lake and forest. Kayaking and canoeing are possible from the park's boat launch. Birdwatching is a common activity, with various waterfowl and forest-dwelling species present. Fishing is permitted in Lake Champlain from designated areas.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The park provides restroom facilities, picnic tables, and charcoal grills. There are designated shaded areas under trees. Cell phone signal (4G) is generally available within the park. No on-site food vendors are present; visitors should bring their own provisions. A campground with tent and RV sites is also located within the park.

Best Time to Visit

For optimal weather and outdoor activity, the months of June through September are recommended. Mid-morning (9:00 AM - 11:00 AM) offers good lighting for photography of the lake and shoreline. Lake Champlain water levels are generally stable during this period, with no specific tide requirements for access.

Facts & Legends

Local folklore suggests that the buttonstones found along the shore possess unique properties, with some believing they bring good luck to those who collect them. Geologically, these stones are sedimentary rocks that have been smoothed and rounded by the action of the lake over millennia.

Nearby Landmarks

• Mount Independence State Historic Site (12km Southwest)
• Chimney Point State Historic Site (10km Southwest)
• Fort Ticonderoga (15km West, across Lake Champlain)
• Vergennes Falls (11km Southeast)