Little River State Park Campground and Smugglers Notch State Park Campground offer rustic camping alternatives near Bolton, Vermont. Located within the Green Mountains, these parks provide standard tent and RV sites without the amenities of their glamping counterparts. Both parks maintain basic facilities with potable water and toilet access throughout the camping season from May through mid-October. Winter temperatures in the region can drop below 0°F, while summer averages 75-80°F.
What to do
Kayak Ricker Pond: Ricker Pond State Park features quiet waters where motorboats are restricted. "There are many beautiful backcountry campsites right on the water only accessible via the water. Great local overnight spot with flat tenting, privies, and picnic tables," notes Caitlin M. about Ricker Pond State Park Campground.
Hike local trails: Access the Cross Vermont Trail directly from campgrounds. "We had our trail bikes so took advantage of the Montpelier-Wells Rail Trail (Cross Vermont Trail), accessible directly from the campground," explains Emma B. The trail connects multiple state parks throughout Groton State Forest.
Winter recreation: Some campgrounds offer off-season opportunities. "Free of charge during off season, you just have to call a couple weeks ahead to reserve and make sure you park in the allotted area. Hike/snowshoe in to your site as the gate is closed and the area is not plowed," shares Ed M. about Smugglers Notch State Park Campground.
Cycling: The Burlington bike path connects to several campgrounds. "Bring your bikes! You're tucked away in the woods on gorgeous lake champlain and can bike into burlington for meals and city street strolls," recommends Mackenzie B. about North Beach Campground.
What campers like
Private camping options: Mount Philo offers secluded sites. "Sites 1, 6 and 8 are the best if you're only camping with those at your site as they're the most secluded and private," advises Drew Q. about Mount Philo State Park Campground. With just 8 campsites, this smaller park provides a more intimate camping experience.
Natural swimming areas: Several parks feature swimming access to ponds and lakes. "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. about Ricker Pond.
Proximity to attractions: Many campgrounds serve as central locations for regional exploration. "We had easy access to hikes in Stowe, plus the Ben and Jerry's shop is about 20 minutes down the road! We stayed on the B side. The bathrooms were clean, the site was well maintained, and the reservoir was a great place to relax after a day of hiking," shares Alison O. about Little River State Park Campground.
Historical features: Some parks include unique historical elements. "The hiking trails are really good—actually pretty steep. There are lots of old foundations hidden on the trails that are fun to discover," notes Rita M.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Popular sites book quickly, especially waterfront locations. "Book early for the best sites. I've been visiting Ricker Pond for nearly 20 years (except for the years that I don't book enough in advance and aren't able to secure a spot for my desired length of stay)," advises Neena B.
Bathroom facilities: Most parks offer basic facilities with pay showers. "Showers were quarter operated, 50 cents for 5 minutes. Firewood sold on site. Sites are well groomed and have a fire pit and picnic table," reports Beau B. about Mount Philo State Park.
Site selection considerations: Terrain varies significantly across campgrounds. "Some of the campsites on the outside ring you need to walk into (a very short distance), but it makes it feel very secluded and less like car camping," explains Jess O. about Smugglers Notch.
Water access challenges: Not all waterfront sites offer easy lake access. "Most sites up on hill looking over lake, not easily assessable from camp site. Left kayak down at beach," shares Cindy L. about Little River State Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground availability: Some parks offer dedicated play areas. "The small playground was great, and the small boat launch and beach kept us in the water," mentions Rita M. about Little River State Park.
Educational opportunities: Several parks feature nature programming. "We love hiking and this sweet campsite is the perfect spot to start or end a hike. It's well kept, private, beautiful, and right in the mountains. Nearby waterfalls are lovely!" recommends Mackenzie B. about Smugglers Notch State Park.
Swimming options: Look for parks with beach areas. "The sites on the pond are beautiful if you can get one! The campground has a small beach, boat launch and it's right on the Cross Vermont Trail," notes Michele S. about Ricker Pond State Park Campground.
Cell service considerations: Remote parks have limited connectivity. "There is absolutely no cell service for miles, so plan accordingly," warns Michele S. about Ricker Pond State Park.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookups: Most state parks near Bolton lack full RV amenities. "No electrical or water hook ups. The water is delicious by the way, so don't bother with any bottled variety—this is the good stuff," advises Shari G. about Ricker Pond.
Off-grid power solutions: Prepare for limited power access. "No electrical hookups to be found, so bring your solar panels if you want power. There is a ton of space between sites—we could barely see our neighbors or hear them," continues Shari G.
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have uneven terrain. "Because the loop is on a hill, some sites are not quite level, but only slightly," reports Lee D. about Maple Grove Campground.
Seasonal considerations: Not all facilities operate year-round. "Silent and starry nights, just make sure you have the gear/experience and a warm sleeping bag," Ed M. cautions about winter camping at Smugglers Notch, adding, "No facilities off season…Carry out all trash/waste."
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