Barre, Vermont sits at the edge of the Groton State Forest, a 26,000-acre wilderness area with several ponds and lakes at elevations ranging from 900 to 1,500 feet. Summer temperatures average 70-80°F during the day and 50-60°F at night, while many campgrounds in this region operate from mid-May through mid-October. Cell service is notably limited throughout the forest, with most campgrounds reporting spotty reception or none at all.
What to do
Paddle the motorboat-free waters: Ricker Pond State Park offers calm waters perfect for paddling. "The pond is serene and a great place to swim, paddle, explore, and fish," notes Hannah H. "If you paddle or swim to the other side of the camp ground, there is a huge rock with a rope swing."
Explore historic ruins: Several hiking trails near Little River State Park lead to abandoned settlements. "The hiking trails are really good--actually pretty steep. There are lots of old foundations hidden on the trails that are fun to discover," shares Rita M.
Bike the Cross Vermont Trail: The rail trail passes through many campgrounds in the area. "We took a half day bike trip on it one day to go to the town of Marshfield to visit Rainbow Sweets, home of some of the best French pastries in Vermont," mentions a visitor at Kettle Pond State Park.
Search for loons: Kettle Pond offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. "We were able to watch the Loons teaching its chicks to hunt for food," describes M.A.D. P. "One evening, during a sunset paddle, we got to float alongside a loon family, which was VERY cool."
What campers like
Remote camping options: Several pet-friendly campgrounds near Barre feature remote sites. At New Discovery State Park, Sambath T. enjoyed "the most perfect spot in a private site on osmore pond that was accessible only by canoe! quiet, serene, beautiful!"
Disconnecting completely: The limited connectivity is a feature, not a bug. "There is absolutely no cell service for miles, so plan accordingly," advises Michele S. about Ricker Pond. Shari G. adds: "Leave your mobile devices off, because cell towers haven't quite made it to this quiet corner of the woods."
Lean-to accommodations: Many campsites offer these rustic shelters. "I've been visiting Ricker Pond for nearly 20 years... My favorite lean to site is directly on the water, private, and fills up fast," shares Neena B. "The lean-tos are large enough to accommodate 2 moderately sized free-standing tents."
Dog-friendly swimming areas: Stillwater State Park offers waterfront access for pets. "Our site was right on the brook which was peaceful and beautiful," notes Drew H. Other campers report that designated swimming areas at most state parks allow supervised dogs to cool off.
What you should know
Reserve well in advance: Popular sites book up quickly. "If you have a certain week you want to camp, make sure you book early in the spring, otherwise you might have to wait for a cancellation," advises a camper at Stillwater State Park.
Limited provisions available: The area is remote with few stores. "This area of VT is 25-30 minutes from any type of grocery store. There is the camp store, but their stock is limited," notes Rita M.
Variable site sizes: At Big Deer State Park, Tim R. observes, "Very nice sites, most have good privacy and are rather large - many of them also have large boulders around them!" However, at other campgrounds, "Some sites are so sloped I don't even know how a car would camp there."
Pack for bugs: Insect repellent is essential in summer. "Bring Deet the bugs are thick," warns Chris H., while another camper suggests "bring a head netting" for comfort during peak insect season.
Tips for camping with families
Choose by water access: Lakefront sites are prized but book quickly. "If you can get one of the sites on the pond, it's perfect for kayaking and canoeing. The pond is right there at your site," shares a reviewer at Ricker Pond State Park.
Check for beach quality: Sandy beaches are limited. "The lake is really nice for kayaking or swimming, and has some loons, but when we were there it carried lots of noise from other sites," mentions Emma B.
Explore interpretive programs: Rangers offer educational activities. "On our second day, there was an interpretive program at the pavilion. The ranger led visitors in making bark boats out of materials found in the park."
Consider rental options: Equipment is available onsite. "Canoes can be rented at the main visitors center," notes a camper, while another adds, "With boats available for rent, you don't even need to bring your own."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Most state parks lack full services. "There is a dump station and drinking water on site, but the spigots for the water are not threaded," warns Laura M. at New Discovery State Park.
Check site dimensions carefully: Many campgrounds have tight access. "Sites are relatively level and along with a picnic table, they also provide two Adirondack chairs (plastic) and a fire ring," reports Greg D. about Lazy Lions Campground.
Bridge access considerations: Some campgrounds have narrow entry points. "You need to go over a bridge in order to get to the campground which is ridiculously narrow and there are terrible potholes. Our 42 foot fifth wheel barely made it in," cautions Cyn D. about Onion River Campground.
Seasonal availability varies: Most dog-friendly campgrounds near Barre operate seasonally. "This is a small campground, really it's an extension of Stillwater just up the road," notes Miccal M., adding that most state parks close by mid-October.
Traveler
