Best Campgrounds near Barre, VT
State parks and private campgrounds provide numerous accommodation options near Barre, Vermont. Several established facilities like Ricker Pond State Park, Little River State Park, and Lazy Lions Campground welcome visitors between May and October. The area includes RV-friendly locations with full hookups, tent-only sites, and cabin rentals. Groton State Forest contains multiple camping areas, offering both developed campgrounds and remote sites along ponds and waterways within a 20-mile radius of Barre.
Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally, typically from Memorial Day weekend through early October. Many Vermont state parks like Kettle Pond require advance reservations, especially during peak summer periods. "This is a nice, quiet, and secluded CG for an overnight stay," noted one visitor about Lazy Lions Campground. Access varies by location, with some campgrounds featuring well-maintained gravel roads while others have challenging entry points. A visitor mentioned that Onion River Campground has "a bridge in order to get to the campground which is ridiculously narrow and there are terrible potholes." Weather considerations include potential rain and cooler temperatures, particularly in spring and fall. Most facilities provide basic amenities like toilets and drinking water, though shower availability differs between locations.
Campers report high satisfaction with waterfront sites at places like Kettle Pond State Park, where remote lean-to shelters offer peaceful experiences. As described in feedback on The Dyrt, one visitor appreciated being able to "watch the Loons teaching its chicks to hunt for food" during their stay. State park campgrounds generally maintain better ratings than some private facilities, with cleanliness and natural setting being common positive attributes. Several campgrounds feature swimming opportunities in lakes or pools during summer months. For those seeking solitude, remote camping options require short hikes from parking areas, with sites spread around pond perimeters. Family-friendly amenities vary significantly between locations, with some campgrounds offering more activities than others. Seasonal considerations affect overall experience, with fall offering colorful foliage viewing opportunities throughout the region.
