Gifford Woods State Park

Gifford Woods State Park protects one of the rarest natural communities in Vermont: a small but genuine old-growth hardwood forest that has never been logged. Located in Killington, Rutland County, the park sits at the base of Killington Peak along Route 100, where the Appalachian Trail passes through the park, with the Long Trail accessible nearby via the AT/LT junction. The combination of ancient trees, direct trail access to the Green Mountain ridge, and a quiet, well-maintained campground makes this one of the more rewarding small parks in the Vermont state system.

The Old-Growth Forest

The centerpiece is a small old-growth hardwood stand, including the 7-acre Gifford Woods Natural Area and 13-acre National Natural Landmark designation, composed of sugar maple, yellow birch, white ash, and basswood. Trees in this grove are estimated to be well over 200 years old, and the forest floor reflects that age: layered understory vegetation, decaying nurse logs, and an uneven canopy structure that you simply do not find in second-growth woodland. A short interpretive loop winds through the grove and is accessible to most visitors without significant exertion. The old-growth stand is small enough to experience fully in under an hour, but worth slowing down for. Fern coverage is dense in summer, and the park is popular for fall foliage.

Appalachian and Long Trail Access

The park’s location along the Appalachian Trail and Long Trail is a major draw for through-hikers and day hikers alike. The trailhead near the campground provides access west/southbound toward Sherburne Pass and the Inn at Long Trail, or south toward Cooper Lodge and the upper elevations of Killington Peak. From Gifford Woods, a Killington Peak hike via the AT/Long Trail is a much longer, strenuous outing of roughly 19 to 20 miles round trip; the shorter 7 to 8 mile round trip is typically via the Bucklin Trail from a separate trailhead. The climb rewards hikers with panoramic views across Vermont and into New Hampshire and New York. Shorter options along the trail corridor offer access to quieter ridgeline terrain without committing to the full summit push. The park also serves as a resupply and rest point for AT through-hikers, and the campground reflects that culture with a welcoming, low-key atmosphere.

Camping at Gifford Woods

The campground is small and forested, with 22 tent/RV sites, 19 lean-to sites, 4 cabins, and 4 Appalachian Trail hiker campsites; there is a trailer sanitary station, but no hookups. Because the sites sit within or adjacent to mature hardwood forest, they feel more secluded than campgrounds at larger, more developed parks. The park has restrooms and hot showers. Reservations are recommended in summer and during peak fall foliage, as the campground fills quickly given the park’s size. The lean-to shelters are a good option for hikers who want more protection from weather without carrying heavy gear. Camping fees apply separately from the day-use entry fee.

Pet Policy

Pets are welcome at Gifford Woods State Park and must be kept on a leash no longer than ten feet at all times. Pets are allowed in the campground and on park trails. Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their animals. Pets are not permitted in most park buildings or cabins unless designated pet-friendly; pets are allowed in campgrounds, including lean-to sites, subject to Vermont State Parks pet rules and fees.

Wildlife to Be Aware Of

Black bears are present throughout the park and are particularly active in and around the forested campground. Bears in this area have learned to associate campsites with food, so strict food storage is not optional. All food, trash, coolers, and scented items should be secured in a locked vehicle, approved bear-resistant container, or bear box if one is provided. Never leave food unattended at a campsite, and do not store anything with an odor inside a tent or lean-to. If you encounter a bear, make noise, give it space, and do not approach it.

Deer ticks are a genuine concern in the dense hardwood forest at Gifford Woods. The old-growth stand and surrounding leaf litter create ideal tick habitat, and Lyme disease is well established in this region of Vermont. Wear long pants and closed shoes when hiking, tuck pants into socks if you are going off trail, and apply insect repellent with DEET or permethrin on clothing. Do a thorough tick check after any time in the woods, paying attention to the hairline, behind the knees, and underarms.

Moose may be encountered along the Appalachian Trail and Long Trail corridors near the park, particularly in early morning and evening hours. Moose are large, unpredictable animals that can move quickly when startled. Keep your distance, never approach one, and give them a wide berth on the trail. A cow with a calf is especially likely to behave defensively.

Practical Information

Gifford Woods State Park is located at 34 Gifford Woods Road in Killington, Vermont, directly off Route 100 north of the Route 4 junction. The nearest town with services is Killington, and Woodstock is roughly 15 miles to the east. For 2026, Gifford Woods is open May 22 through October 12, with the last camping night October 11; dates vary by year. Day-use entry fees are $5 per adult (ages 14 and older), $2 per child (ages 4 to 13), and free for children 3 and under. Season passes are available. Camping fees are separate and vary by site type. Reservations can be made online through the Vermont State Parks reservation website at vtstateparks-visit.com, by calling 1-888-409-7579, or by contacting the park during the season. The park does not have a staffed entrance booth outside of peak hours, so have payment ready. Cell service in the area can be limited, so download trail maps before arriving.