Sand Bar State Park — Attraction in Milton

There are millions of acres of state parks across the United States. For the most part, the visitors to these state parks are astounded not only by their sheer natural beauty, but also by their impressive sizes. The Sand Bar State Park, one of the state’s most-visited day parks, proves to be an exercise in paradise in only 15 acres.

Standing at such a small size, visitors may find the park an easily missed stop along US-2; though there is a clear argument to make that suggests that such a sequestered parcel of idyll is only made more valuable by its remoteness and ability to remain undetected by the passer-by.

Even my visit to the park was unintentional. I had stopped off at the lay-by on the side of the road during a road-trip to Burlington from the Point au Roche area in New York while, checking my map, uncovered the two-thousand foot sandy beach, picnic areas, cooking grills, and play areas - all of which were poised to offer opportunities for rich and rewarding family interaction from 10am until sunset.

For the reasonable parking and entrance costs, at less than $5 per person, families that savor learning, adventure, and teachable moments with their children may discover the additional benefit of seeing beavers, muskrats, racoons, and turtles, as well as a variety of waterfowl meandering from the Sand Bar Wildlife Refuge - all safe from the prospect of hunting.

Complete with a rich foundation in local history, both in the formation of the sandbar from the Lamoille River that served as a land bridge before the 1850s and the role that a developing highway system played on the surrounding land, the state park also features a large bathhouse built by the Civilian Conservation Corps between 1933-1935.

The terrain is largely flat and accessible for those with limited mobility. For those that require it, a beach wheelchair is available for use at the provision of the state park.

There are several potential sticking points for visitors, including the park’s ‘no pet’ policy as well as a lack of pavilions or picnic shelters. For visitors that require these facilities, an alternative trip may be made to Knight Point State Park. However, when one is reminded of the size of the park, it quickly becomes apparent the reason that these policies...

Had high hopes for this state park but was greatly dissatisfied. ONE person was working the entire park. So, she was at the entrance taking payments as people drove in. Therefore, no kayak rentals, which was the main reason we went to this park! So, we paid to park, walked around a bit, found out they couldn't rent out the boats, and left. I should've asked for a refund but I felt bad for that one young person working all alone. During our walk we discovered the entire left side of the beach was covered in goose poop. They had a decoy fox out there we are guessing to scare the geese away but it scared us for a few minutes until we realized it was plastic🤣 Anyways, it was sad to see such a dirty beach with no one working out there to clean it up. It was like that whole half of the park had been abandoned. There is even a beautiful stone building that is locked up and overgrown with weeds. They stuck a portopotty out there to use instead. It really is a shame because this park probably was once a gorgeous park! I can see how it would be perfect for little kids as the water is gentle, warm and shallow for a far distance! There's also a nice playground area. I hope they get the staff they need to bring this park...

Usually go to this beach every other summer with my family. Cousins and all! The views are beautiful and calming. One time my cousins and I were chasing seagulls along the beach! I totally recommend. Seriously, come on down. See you there! (Maybe? :) Bye! Thank you.

Btw, here's a solution to the knee-deep problem: Simply swim out a little bit. Yes, it'll take you a little while, but it's worth it! While you're walking/swimming to a deeper spot splash each other and make contests!

A million sticks problem: Well, if you really want to fix this problem you're gonna have to spend a few minutes on it. Pick up sticks on the sand and place them in a pile. It would be best if that pile wasn't near a bunch of people- or even a few people (:). This would really show an act of kindness and generosity!

Bug problem: Bug spray!!!

Oh btw, the beach is a really nice spot to be in June and July. And at the beginning of August! You may or may not have known that. (sorry)

Going to the Sandbar this summer! Are you going? Bye!!

ps. Remember to bring Sun Screen....