Pageant Park

For Vermonters, our state's rich history and stunning natural beauty often converge in unexpected ways, creating cherished local spots that have stood the test of time. Pageant Park in Barton, Vermont, is one such gem. More than just a campground or a beach, it's a place deeply woven into the fabric of the community, offering a blend of relaxation, recreation, and a tangible connection to the past. Situated on the serene shores of Crystal Lake in the heart of the Northeast Kingdom, it's a testament to the enduring appeal of simple, classic Vermont summer experiences.

Pageant Park, named after a grand community event held in 1921, has evolved into a beloved public destination. While some visitors might find its vibe a bit quiet, especially compared to bustling state parks, its peaceful ambiance is precisely what many locals seek. It offers a "nice view and scenery," making it an ideal spot to unwind, enjoy a picnic, or let the kids play. Importantly, it's a place managed by the Village of Barton, ensuring a local touch and a welcoming environment for all who visit.

This article is specifically crafted for Vermont residents, providing a clear, engaging, and factual overview of Pageant Park. We'll delve into its picturesque location on Crystal Lake, detail the services and features it provides, and offer practical information to help you plan your next leisurely day trip or camping adventure in this historic lakeside setting.

Pageant Park is ideally located on Pageant Park Road, Barton, VT 05822, USA, directly on the shores of Crystal Lake. This prime setting places it within the beautiful and relatively unspoiled region known as the Northeast Kingdom. Barton itself is a charming village, embodying the quintessential small-town character that Vermonters appreciate.

For Vermonters, accessing Pageant Park is straightforward and convenient. It’s easily reached via well-maintained state roads such as Route 16, which connects to other major routes within the Northeast Kingdom. Whether you're coming from nearby towns or further afield within Vermont, the drive is generally scenic and manageable. The park's location within the Village of Barton means that while you feel immersed in nature, essential amenities are still close at hand. Local shops, a grocery store, and eateries are typically just a short drive away, allowing for easy resupply. This balance of natural beauty with practical accessibility makes Pageant Park an excellent choice for a convenient day trip or a relaxing camping stay without extensive travel. The "nice view and scenery" adds to the appeal, inviting visitors to enjoy the natural splendor of Crystal Lake.

Pageant Park, managed by the Village of Barton, provides fundamental services designed to facilitate a comfortable and enjoyable experience for both day-use visitors and campers.

• Campsites: The park offers 15 RV campsites and additional tent sites, available for both seasonal and nightly rental.
• Full Utility Hookups: A significant upgrade completed in fall 2017 means "all RV sites now boast full utility hookups," which typically includes water, sewer, and electrical connections, enhancing comfort for RVers.
• Picnic Tables: Numerous "picnic benches" and "nearly 80 picnic tables" are scattered throughout the park and beach area, providing ample space for outdoor meals.
• Grills: "Grills are conveniently located in the beach area for outdoor cooking," offering facilities for barbecues and picnics. Campsites also each have a fire ring.
• Toilet Stalls/Restrooms: Public "toilet stalls" are available, offering essential restroom facilities for park visitors.
• Playground: There is a "nice place to bring the kids to play" with a dedicated playground area, making it suitable for families.
• Activities: The park offers a variety of recreational activities including "swimming, horseshoes, badminton and volley ball."
• Non-Motorized Boat Launch: "Non-motorized boats can also be launched from the park," providing access to Crystal Lake for paddling.
• Firewood Sales: While not explicitly stated in the provided text for Pageant Park, similar municipal campgrounds often offer firewood for sale. (General Vermont State Parks information suggests this is common practice, though Pageant Park is village-managed).
• Pavilion Rental: The "Pageant Park Pavilion is available to rent for outdoor events hosted at the park," offering a covered space for gatherings.
• Seasonal Passes: For local residents, "free season passes to Village residents" for beach access are available, highlighting its community focus. Non-residents can purchase daily access or seasonal passes at the Village office.

Pageant Park's unique charm and appeal stem from its blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and community-focused amenities, making it a distinctive local favorite in Vermont's Northeast Kingdom.

• Historic Significance: The park is "steeped in history," named after a grand community pageant held in 1921. This historical context adds a unique character and a sense of continuity, making it more than just a recreational area.
• Lakeside Location on Crystal Lake: Its direct setting on the "serene shores of Crystal Lake" is a major draw, providing "nice view and scenery" and immediate access to the water.
• Public Beach Access: The presence of a "nice beach" with "sandy shoreline" and a "marked swimming area" makes it an excellent spot for swimming and sunbathing, especially for families.
• Family-Friendly Environment: With a "nice place to bring the kids to play" including a "playground," along with picnic areas and grills, it's designed to be a welcoming and safe environment for families.
• Full Hookup RV Sites: The availability of "15 RV campsites" with "full utility hookups" is a significant convenience for RV owners, providing a comfortable and well-equipped stay.
• Quiet and Relaxed Atmosphere: While one review noted it "seemed deserted" and mentioned "no swimming allowed" (which contradicts other sources about the beach area), the general consensus from other sources suggests it's a "tranquil alternative to the more bustling Crystal Lake State Park," implying a peaceful and laid-back vibe rather than a high-energy one. It is important to note the contradiction in the review about swimming; official village information confirms swimming is allowed and is a key activity.
• Community-Oriented Management: Being managed by the Village of Barton, the park often reflects a local, welcoming feel, with policies like free season passes for village residents reinforcing its community ties.
• Versatile Use: Pageant Park is suitable for both day trips (picnics, play, beach access) and longer camping stays, offering flexibility for locals' recreational needs.

As a public facility managed by the Village of Barton, Pageant Park's pricing and promotions are generally straightforward and set by the municipality. While extensive, revolving discounts like private businesses might offer are less common, there are specific benefits and rate structures designed for local residents and general visitors. For the most current and specific details, it is always best for local Vermonters to contact the Village of Barton office directly or consult their official website.

• Village Resident Benefits: The park "offers free season passes to Village residents" for beach access, highlighting its strong community focus and providing excellent value for locals.
• Daily Access and Season Passes: For non-residents, "daily access or seasonal passes" can be purchased at the Village office, providing flexible options for those visiting for a day or wishing to frequent the park throughout the summer.
• Seasonal Camping Rates: Campsites are available for "seasonal or nightly rental." Inquire about specific seasonal rates, which often offer significant savings for extended stays (e.g., the mentioned $1800.00 for the season for RV sites from an older rate sheet).
• Nightly Rates: Separate rates apply for "Tent Site (per night)" and "Small Campers/Pop-Ups" or "RV Sites" on a nightly basis, offering flexibility for shorter visits.

Checking the official Village of Barton website for a "Pageant Park Rates" document or contacting the Village office by phone will provide the most up-to-date and accurate information on all pricing and any current offers.

To make a reservation for a campsite (seasonal or nightly), inquire about park access, or gather more details about Pageant Park, please use the following contact information:

Address: Pageant Park Road, Barton, VT 05822, USA

Phone: (802) 525-3036

Mobile Phone: +1 802-525-3036

Please note that as a municipal park, operations are managed by the Village of Barton. While the provided phone number is direct, if you need broader village information or encounter difficulty, contacting the main Village of Barton municipal office could also be helpful. It is highly recommended to call ahead, especially during the peak summer months, to confirm site availability and any operational details, as popular spots fill quickly.

For Vermonters, Pageant Park in Barton is an exceptionally suitable and appealing destination, offering a quintessential lakeside experience that combines convenience, community, and classic outdoor fun. Its unique blend of amenities and local charm makes it an ideal spot for residents seeking relaxation and recreation without venturing far from home.

Firstly, its prime location directly on Crystal Lake is a significant draw. For us, having immediate access to a beautiful lake for "swimming, horseshoes, badminton and volley ball" and simply enjoying the "nice view and scenery" is the essence of a Vermont summer. The public beach, with its "sandy shoreline," provides a safe and enjoyable area for families, distinguishing it from locations where swimming might not be allowed (despite one conflicting review, official information confirms swimming is a key activity here). This direct lake access means more time enjoying the water and less time traveling.

Secondly, the campground's offerings cater well to local needs. With "15 RV campsites and additional tent sites" that can be rented "for seasonal or nightly use," and all RV sites boasting "full utility hookups" since a 2017 upgrade, it provides versatile and comfortable options. Whether you're planning a quick weekend escape or looking for a full summer seasonal spot, Pageant Park accommodates. The presence of "picnic benches" and "grills" throughout the park further enhances the ease of enjoying outdoor meals and gatherings.

Moreover, the park's management by the Village of Barton and its deep historical roots foster a strong sense of community. This isn't just a place to visit; it’s a shared local amenity. Policies like "free season passes to Village residents" for beach access underscore this community focus. The "nice place to bring the kids to play" with a playground reinforces its family-friendly atmosphere, ensuring that it’s a welcoming environment for all generations.

While one review mentioned the park seeming "deserted," for many Vermonters, this translates to a peaceful and uncrowded experience – a "tranquil alternative" to more bustling state parks. Pageant Park truly embodies the quiet charm and natural beauty of the Northeast Kingdom, making it an ideal choice for locals seeking a relaxing, convenient, and historically rich lakeside retreat.

Pageant Park

Pageant Park Rd, Barton, VT 05822, USA