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Best Campgrounds near Groton, VT

1,048 Reviews

Groton State Forest encompasses several Vermont state parks with camping options, including Ricker Pond, Stillwater, Big Deer, New Discovery, and Kettle Pond State Park Campgrounds. These developed campgrounds accommodate various camping styles, from tent and RV sites to cabins and lean-tos. The majority of campgrounds are situated on or near water bodies like Groton Lake and Ricker Pond, providing waterfront or water view sites. Many locations feature amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, drinking water, and toilet facilities, with most state park campgrounds offering showers and some providing electric hookups for RVs.

The camping season in the Groton area typically runs from mid-May through Columbus Day weekend, with precise opening dates varying by campground. Most state parks in the region require reservations, especially during peak summer months when waterfront sites fill quickly. Road access to campgrounds is generally good, though some remote sites at Kettle Pond require walking from the parking area. Cell service can be inconsistent throughout the region, particularly away from the water. Visitors should come prepared with necessary supplies as the nearest grocery stores are 25-30 minutes away. According to one camper, "When we first heard of the North East Kingdom of Vermont, we had no idea where people were talking about, but something idyllic and natural came to mind."

Campers consistently praise the privacy and natural setting of sites throughout Groton State Forest. The region provides excellent access to hiking trails, swimming areas, and boating opportunities, with boat rentals available at some locations. Several visitors highlight the clear mountain lakes and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities, including loons that can be heard calling at night. Many tent sites and lean-tos offer good separation between camping spots, creating a sense of solitude even when campgrounds are full. As one visitor noted, "The sites are well separated and private. The grounds are beautiful and well situated to enjoy Groton State Forest." For those seeking alternatives to state parks, private campgrounds like Pleasant Valley Campground and Groton Forest Road Campground provide additional mixed-use camping options with tent and RV sites.

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Best Camping Sites Near Groton, Vermont (245)

    1. Ricker Pond State Park Campground

    14 Reviews
    Groton, VT
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (802) 584-3821

    $19 - $110 / night

    "When we first heard of the North East Kingdom of Vermont, we had no idea where people were talking about, but something idyllic and natural came to mind."

    "It’s located along with several other state parks in the Groton State Forest so there’s so much to do! Clear mountain lake? Check! Miles of stunning hiking trails? Check! Rail trails? Check!"

    2. Kettle Pond State Park Campground

    9 Reviews
    Marshfield, VT
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (802) 426-3042

    "Kettle Pond is a classic northern pond set in Vermont's Groton State Forest."

    "We enjoyed being that close to our boats and swimming for the kids."

    3. Big Deer State Park Campground

    7 Reviews
    Peacham, VT
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (802) 584-3822

    "Very nice sites, most have good privacy and are rather large - many of them also have large boulders around them! Access to Boulder Beach is included, which is a short walk or drive down the road."

    "Check-in happens at Stillwater, purchase your firewood and drive the 2 min down to Big Deer.

    For Vermont, these sites felt close, but we could still get privacy."

    4. Stillwater State Park Campground

    5 Reviews
    Groton, VT
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (802) 584-3822

    "Tucked away in a beautiful part of Vermont, the campground is right on Groton Lake with a swimming area and designated boat launch."

    "**Campground Review **    

    Stillwater State Park in Groton VT is a delightful retreat, nestled on the shores of Lake Groton. The campground has a mix of lean-tos and tent sites."

    5. New Discovery State Park Campground

    6 Reviews
    Marshfield, VT
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (802) 426-3042

    $20 - $38 / night

    "Easy access to a lake and a picnic pavilion.

    Noticed more than a few sites that I could hang at."

    " There are hiking trails right from the campground, which we always appreciate. You can also go down to the water and rent a kayak or canoe from the rangers."

    6. Pleasant Valley Campground

    4 Reviews
    Bolton Valley, VT
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (802) 522-9283

    $30 / night

    "I come here more than Groton state parks nowadays because they are so expensive and always very booked. I can call the week before and get a spot here, which I love!"

    "5 stars for the setting in the pines overlooking the lake with spacious sites (except those along side the lake). 3 stars for lack of cell service and no WiFi . I would definitely stay again."

    7. Lafayette Place Campground — Franconia Notch State Park

    36 Reviews
    Lincoln, NH
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 823-9513

    $35 / night

    "We camped here as a jumping-off point for the popular Lincoln-Lafayette-Little Haystack loop, which is walking distance from the campground."

    "You can access at least 6 of the NH48 from this campground, numerous waterfalls, two AMC huts, and several ponds and lakes all within hiking distance."

    8. Groton Forest Road Campground

    4 Reviews
    Marshfield, VT
    10 miles
    +1 (802) 426-4122

    $35 / night

    "The lake was gorgeous to swim in and had different rafts and stuff in the water for public use. The bathrooms were well maintained along with the showers."

    9. Lost River Valley Campground

    32 Reviews
    North Woodstock, NH
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 745-8321

    $62 - $209 / night

    "Nice campground located in the valley of mountains. Wooded sites but close to your neighbors."

    "On our walk our daughter found a lost “moose” who got away from the camp store. Once returned she was able to pick a prize. They also had a tinker bell walk and other activities."

    10. River Meadow Campground RV Park

    3 Reviews
    Woodsville, NH
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 787-6700

    $45 - $58 / night

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Recent Camping Photos near Groton, VT

745 Photos of 245 Groton Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Groton, VT

1048 Reviews of 245 Groton Campgrounds

  • Erin D.
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Lost River Valley Campground

    Dirty and Disappointing

    Here’s the revised version of your review with the laundry issue added in seamlessly:⸻ I came to this campground after seeing it advertised in a New Hampshire magazine, noting that it had once been recommended by Yankee Magazine. Unfortunately, it seems that recommendation must have been from many years ago, because what we experienced was nothing like what was promised. From the moment we arrived, it was clear the property was extremely rundown. The entrance and camp store were full of broken wood, broken signs, and musty smells. The bathrooms were absolutely atrocious—filthy, smelly, and clearly not maintained. They may not have been updated in years, but they could at least be kept clean, and they were not. The playgrounds—despite this being advertised as a family-friendly campground—were unsafe and neglected. Structures were practically falling down, weeds were everywhere, and one so-called playground was nothing more than a tarp on the ground with a tiny jungle gym. The game room was equally disappointing: dirty, moldy, and unusable. We had also looked forward to using the laundry facilities, but they were completely out of order and appeared to have been that way for quite some time. This was extremely disappointing and added to the sense that the entire campground is neglected. The swimming area was also a major letdown. The water was murky and uninviting—I wouldn’t even consider kayaking or putting my feet in it. Calling it a“beach” is misleading; it was unkempt and unpleasant. Overall, this campground was an extreme disappointment. It felt neglected, unsafe, and unhygienic in every way. I will not be returning, and I would strongly caution others to look elsewhere for a true family-friendly New Hampshire camping experience.⸻ Would you like me to shorten this into a punchier version(since some review sites have word limits), or keep it as a full detailed account for maximum impact?

  • Josh S.
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Mountain Lake Camping Resort

    Great campground for families!

    If you're looking for a safe, family friendly, quiet campground this is it.

    Pool with water slides for kids, Kayaks, paddle boats, canoes, playground with slides and a pirate ship.

    Strict quiet hours at 1030 make it very quiet in the evening with no worry of loud parties keeping you up.

    Super clean restrooms and sites and a camp store with about everything in it.

    10 minute drive to the cute town of Lancaster which has coffee shops, brewery, restaurants, bakery and groceries.

  • Dale S.
    Aug. 23, 2025

    Nauman Tentsite

    Perfect Camping Adventure in White Mountains

    This campsite sounds like a perfect spot for nature lovers who enjoy rugged terrain and peaceful surroundings. The mix of wooden platforms, nearby water sources, and bear protection measures shows how well-prepared it is for group camping. Exploring trails like the Appalachian or enjoying the views from Mount Washington would make the trip even more memorable— almost like the adventure and excitement you find in an android game.

  • Greg D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 22, 2025

    Lazy Lions Campground

    Nice quiet place

    Nice campground with plenty of shade, well maintained and decent restrooms. The showers are ok and cost a quarter for 4 minutes. Our site was level and along with a picnic table, they also provide two Adirondack chairs (plastic) and a fire ring.

  • W
    Aug. 20, 2025

    Quechee State Park Campground

    Good location

    The park is in a good location; it is right next to the road. We were at sight #3.  We were able to walk to the gorge as well as to the Antique mall.  The staff was very friendly and accommodating with us. My wife really enjoyed it and had a lot of fun. The ice cream was really close and really good. 

    The issue I had was the camp next to ours had the generator on all night long and I had a hard time getting back to sleep after going to the bathroom. Next time I will get a volunteer or park ranger to get it turned off.

  • J
    Aug. 20, 2025

    Plymouth Sands Camping Area

    Nice campground with amenities and friendly owners

    The campground is in a convenient location near lots of hiking trails and attractions. The sites are decently spacious and have various configurations for utilities. There is a nice beach on the river with a rope swing and ability to swim. We were there while the water was fairly low, so it was great for kids. Firewood is available on site. There is a bathroom with a few stalls and sinks that is well kept and clean. The showers are quarter operated with a coin heat lamp as well for the colder seasons. The office has a lending library of games available. The couple that owns the campground are very friendly and have owned it for 3 seasons now and they have done a great job making sure that amenities are kept up and upgrades are being made.

  • Jim S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 10, 2025

    Happy Hill Maple Farms

    Offseason

    Quiet spot just off the Hwy. you can hear traffic but not many cars out this time of year(August). They had a fire pit and picnic table . No electricity so we used the generator. We the only one here so the noise should not bother anyone. Great pace for fall visits

  • Jessica C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 10, 2025

    Chittenden Brook Campground

    Great site

    This was a great site that feels secluded but isn’t. There’s quite a bit of space between each site so you can’t really see your neighbors which is excellent. The vault toilets were surprisingly clean besides the expected smell/flies. No running water or electricity. No cell service a few miles leading up the site, so download your maps in advance. There’s a 2.5 mile dirt road with a steady incline into the camp, which my subie had no issue with, but not sure how well an RV would fair.

    Didn’t see any bear, but take bear food precautions regardless. Each site has a fire pit, tent platform, and picnic table. The sites were well cared for. There were two dumpsters, one for recycling and one for trash, at the end of the loop. They are bear proof and almost me proof! The constant sound of running water from the brook was truly relaxing. I didn’t have issues with bugs (beginning of August) but I also didn’t stay in the camp during the majority of the day.

    All in all, a great campsite and I’ll definitely be back.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 9, 2025

    Lost River Valley Campground

    Great Location

    The best thing about this campground is definitely the location. Perfect place to explore the White Mountains. We stayed in a basic cabin. It was clean, but did smell very musty. It was still comfortable. The sites on the river look amazing. Unfortunately my tent is a little too big for some of those sites, but I could still hear the steam from my cabin/site. Bathrooms were okay. Not as clean as they could have been, but they not bad. Again, the location can’t be beat though. And the sites next to the stream look very nice.

Guide to Groton

Groton State Forest covers over 26,000 acres in Vermont's northeast region, with several ponds and lakes scattered throughout its boundaries. The area's elevation ranges from 900 to 2,300 feet above sea level, creating varied terrain for different camping experiences. Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally from late May through mid-October, with the best weather typically occurring from June through September.

What to do

Paddling on motor-free ponds: Ricker Pond State Park offers excellent paddling opportunities on a quiet lake. "A quiet camp ground on Ricker Pond, a motor free pond, is a wonderful way to spend the weekend. The pond is serene and a great place to swim, paddle, explore, and fish," notes Hannah H., who recommends sites 22 and 23 for direct water access.

Biking on rail trails: From Kettle Pond State Park, access the Cross Vermont Trail for excellent biking. "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. We biked through marshland, seeing Great Blue Herons and other wildlife," shares Rita M.

Wilderness hiking: The Franconia Notch State Park area, about an hour drive from Groton, offers challenging mountain trails. "I came with friends in June 2017 to hike Mount Cannon. Feels good to say I did it, but the hike is definitely not for novices. It's exhausting for a pro," warns Rachel P., indicating this is best for experienced hikers.

What campers like

Remote pond sites: For secluded camping, Kettle Pond's remote sites are favorites. "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. The pond itself is fantastic for water activities and the loop around the pond is a great walk or moderate hike - takes about 2.5 hours," explains Ruby L.

Waterfront lean-tos: New Discovery State Park offers unique shelter options. "We stayed at the Eagle leanto and is perfect for hanging multiple hammocks. Close enough to the bathrooms too. There were squirrels that would spend lots of time throughout the day sending loose the green pine cones and then come down and chew them up," Rick S. shares about the wildlife-watching opportunities.

Multi-park access: When staying at Ricker Pond State Park, your camping fee includes entry to other nearby parks. "It's located along with several other state parks in the Groton State Forest so there's so much to do! Clear mountain lake? Check! Miles of stunning hiking trails? Check! Rail trails? Check! Horseback riding trails? Check! Oh yeah, and camping here gets you into all the nearby state parks for free! Bonus exploration!" mentions Danielle S.

What you should know

Limited cell service: Connectivity is minimal throughout the area. "There is absolutely no cell service for miles, so plan accordingly," Michele S. warns about Ricker Pond. Similarly, at Pleasant Valley Campground, campers note "lack of cell service and no WiFi" but some see this as a feature rather than drawback.

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Ricker Pond State Park in Groton?

Ricker Pond State Park Campground offers a range of amenities for campers. The park features basic facilities including fire pits, picnic tables, and restrooms. The park is situated on a beautiful pond with boat access and is less busy than some neighboring state parks. Located within the larger Groton State Forest, Ricker Pond provides access to numerous recreational opportunities including swimming, boating, and fishing. The park connects to extensive trail systems for hiking, horseback riding, and rail trails. Note that cell service is limited, allowing for a true disconnect from daily life. The campground is somewhat remote from stores, so it's advisable to bring all necessary supplies.

Are there hiking trails near Groton State Forest camping areas?

Yes, Groton State Forest offers excellent hiking opportunities accessible from its various camping areas. Big Deer State Park Campground provides direct access to numerous hiking trails throughout Groton State Forest, with many sites featuring large boulders and good privacy. Kettle Pond State Park Campground offers hiking around the classic northern pond with trails connecting to the broader forest network. Many campgrounds in the area also connect to the Montpelier & Wells River Rail Trail. The forest features trails of varying difficulty levels, from easy lake loops to more challenging mountain ascents, making it suitable for hikers of all abilities.

What campsites are available at Groton State Park?

Groton State Park offers a variety of camping options across multiple campgrounds. Stillwater State Park Campground features tent sites and lean-tos right on Groton Lake with a swimming area and boat launch. New Discovery State Park Campground offers well-separated, private sites in a beautiful forest setting. Other campgrounds in the Groton State Forest system include Silver Lake, Kettle Pond, Big Deer, and Ricker Pond. Most campgrounds provide fire pits, picnic tables, and access to hiking trails and water activities. The campgrounds vary in size and privacy levels, with some offering waterfront sites, while others are nestled in the woods.

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