How We Serve
Providing park access and educational opportunities to continue Vermont’s tradition of support for conservation, recreation, public health, and natural beauty.
Supporting Vermont's state parks
Vermont Parks Forever was founded in 2013 to enhance and protect Vermont State Parks through charitable and private support. With a focus on improving nature education, access to parks, and stewardship of Vermont’s shared natural spaces, VPF is committed to protecting and enhancing Vermont’s 55 state parks. This mission is made possible with the support of park enthusiasts from all 50 states and Canada.
Our Priorities
Vermont Parks Forever is committed to fostering environmental stewardship through innovative education, access to parks, and equity in the outdoors.
Improving Equitable Access
Access to Vermont's state parks plays an important role in the health of the community. The benefits of spending time outdoors are well-researched! By granting park access and funding park enhancements, Vermont Parks Forever helps provide outdoor experiences that all visitors can enjoy and benefit from.
Inspiring Stewardship of Nature
Children today spend less time in the outdoors than any generation before. VPF believes it is important for them to connect with nature when they're young so they're more inclined to protect natural spaces in the future. VPF helps visitors of all ages connect with nature through innovative education programs and internships.
Providing Educational Opportunities
Vermont Parks Forever helps create new learning opportunities that foster curiosity and build strong, lasting relationships between visitors and the natural world. Working closely with Vermont State Park staff, VPF makes annual investments in innovative nature education programming throughout the park system.
Our Programs
Natural Connections
Creating dynamic, new educational experiences for Vermont State Park visitors. This program utilizes the educational design experience of ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, the natural history expertise of Vermont State Parks personnel, and the fundraising efforts of Vermont Parks Forever.
Park Access Fund
Vermont’s state parks are for everyone, and together we can promote a more equitable outdoor experience for all.
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​With the help of many donors, we are able to share our state's amazing state parks with Vermonters who otherwise wouldn't be able to experience all the parks have to offer.
Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion
Vermont Parks Forever is engaging its resources to raise awareness and remove barriers to ensure that parks and natural spaces are inviting to everyone. We commit to continue working towards a future where all people feel welcome and renewed through their visits to Vermont’s state parks.
Mt. Philo Forever Fund
Supported by family, friends, and generous donors, the William Cameron Hagedorn Mt. Philo Forever Fund offers an internship opportunity every year for a young person to connect with nature, practice environmental stewardship, develop teamwork and collaboration skills, and experience working with the public.
