Campgrounds near Bolton Valley, Vermont offer diverse experiences from remote lakeside lean-tos to family-oriented resorts with extensive amenities. The region features numerous state parks within Groton State Forest, where elevations range from 900 to 1,400 feet. Summer temperatures typically hover between 65-80°F during camping season, with cooler nights that can drop into the 50s even in July.
What to do
Paddle through pristine waters: Kettle Pond State Park offers exceptional paddling opportunities on motor-free waters. "I've been coming here since I was a little kid and after a couple years away from my home state am more in love with this spot than ever. I like to stay in the remote spots that are only accessible by boat or hiking trails for a little more privacy, but they're all gorgeous," notes Ruby L.
Explore hiking trails: At Stillwater State Park Campground, campers can access numerous trails including the Montpelier & Wells River Rail Trail. A visitor mentioned, "There's also an access path to the Montpelier & Wells River Rail Trail" making it easy to explore the area without driving.
Practice disconnection: Many campgrounds in the area have limited or no connectivity. At Pleasant Valley Campground, one camper appreciated this aspect: "It has everything you need without the distractions of WiFi or Cell service (which is a plus for us)." The campground features "a nice large pond big enough for a nesting pair of loons."
Wildlife observation: Early mornings and evenings offer opportunities to spot native wildlife. One camper at Kettle Pond State Park Campground shared a special moment: "One evening, during a sunset paddle, we got to float alongside a loon family, which was VERY cool."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds in the area offer good separation between campsites. At Big Deer State Park Campground, campers appreciate the space: "Very nice sites, most have good privacy and are rather large - many of them also have large boulders around them!"
Waterfront accommodations: Some of the best camping spots near Bolton Valley are directly on the water. According to a visitor at River Meadow Campground: "My family loves this camp ground right on the CT River. It has RV sights and cabins they keep the campers busy with fun activities for kids and grown ups."
Natural swimming areas: Many campgrounds offer swimming opportunities in ponds and lakes. At Stillwater State Park, "The lake water was beautiful and clear. There was enough sand at the camper beach for sand castles and other beach games."
Remote camping options: For those seeking solitude, several parks offer secluded sites. One camper at Kettle Pond described their experience: "My wife and I spent 10 days at this remote tent site. Our site was on the far western end of Kettle Pond and the only tent site in the remote camping area. A trail that goes around the pond is easily accessed from site 10."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds in the region require advance booking, especially for premium sites. At Ricker Pond State Park Campground, one camper advised: "This is a pretty small State Park, so it fills up quickly. The sites on the pond are beautiful if you can get one!"
Water access: Not all waterfront sites have suitable swimming areas. A camper at Pleasant Valley Campground noted: "Sites are on a tiered hillside so most have a view of the lake."
Weather variability: The region experiences significant temperature fluctuations, even in summer. Pack layers for potentially chilly evenings, particularly in early or late season.
Limited services: Many state parks have minimal amenities. At Kettle Pond, a camper pointed out: "Kettle Pond State Park is primitive. There is not ANY running water. The running water is accessed by going to New Discovery Campground, which is about 3 miles down the road."
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with dedicated children's activities: Some campgrounds offer organized programs for kids. At Moose Hillock Camping Resort, one family noted: "Great pool and Campground! What we loved about this campground was that they had a huge pool and water slides. Our site (camper trailer) was one of the largest sites we've stayed in."
Consider terrain when selecting sites: Some campgrounds have challenging topography. A camper at Moose Hillock warned: "The hilly terrain is insaneeee! If you have never been before, book a sight as close as possible to the pool and office, because the further you get, the higher the altitude."
Pack extra activities for rainy days: Weather can change quickly in Vermont's mountains. Bring cards, books, and games for unexpected indoor time.
Select sites near bathrooms: When camping with small children, proximity to facilities matters. One camper at Big Deer State Park mentioned: "The bath house is centrally located to all sites and was adequate as it relates to cleanliness and accommodations."
Tips for RVers
Limited hookup availability: Many state parks in the region offer primitive camping with few or no hookups. Big Deer State Park Campground has some electric sites but limited water and sewer connections.
Access considerations: Some campgrounds have narrow roads or tight turns. A camper at Pleasant Valley noted: "5 stars for the setting in the pines overlooking the lake with spacious sites (except those along side the lake)."
Dump station locations: Not all campgrounds have on-site dump stations. Plan your waste management accordingly and identify alternatives in the area.
Site leveling requirements: The mountainous terrain means many sites require significant leveling. At Lost River Valley Campground, one RVer mentioned: "Sites are close to eachother but the cabins are perfect. Loved the river and playground!"
