Camping cabins near Groton, Vermont offer year-round lodging options within the Groton State Forest, a 26,000-acre wilderness area with elevations ranging from 900 to 2,300 feet. The region experiences warm summers with average temperatures in the 70s°F and cold winters where temperatures often drop below freezing. Cabin rentals in this region provide strategic access to seven state parks, over 4,900 acres of lake surface, and more than 45 miles of hiking trails.
What to do
Kayaking on motor-free waters: At Ricker Pond State Park Campground, visitors enjoy peaceful paddling without motorboat noise. "The pond is serene and a great place to swim, paddle, explore, and fish. If you paddle or swim to the other side of the camp ground, there is a huge rock with a rope swing," notes Hannah H.
Rail trail exploration: Several cabin locations provide direct access to converted rail trails. "We had our trail bikes so took advantage of the Montpelier-Wells Rail Trail (Cross Vermont Trail), accessible directly from the campground," shares Emma B., who appreciated the convenient trail connection from her campsite.
Cold weather activities: Winter cabin stays offer different recreational opportunities. The region maintains several trails for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing when snow conditions permit, typically from December through March. Some cabins with wood stoves, like those at Ricker Pond, remain open for cold-weather recreation.
What campers like
Private waterfront settings: Lost River Valley Campground offers cabin sites with stream access. "Cute little campground with many sites right on the river. My family has stayed here twice. You can't really swim much in the river, but the kids had a blast playing in it and fishing for little trout," explains Michele S.
Digital disconnection: Many cabin areas have limited or no cell service. "There is absolutely no cell service for miles, so plan accordingly," shares Michele S. about Ricker Pond. This disconnection creates opportunities for evening gatherings around fire pits or impromptu social events.
Clean facilities: Moose River Campground maintains well-regarded bathrooms and common areas. "Clean bathrooms. Not a great place for kids...no pool, arcade, etc.....but perfect for adults," explains Rick C., highlighting the campground's adult-oriented atmosphere.
What you should know
Booking timeline: Reserve cabins early, especially for summer weekends. "Book in advance for the best availability!" advises a regular visitor to Ricker Pond. Most locations begin accepting reservations in January for the upcoming season.
Cabin amenities vary significantly: Art and Health Chill Camping offers unique accommodations with shared facilities. "There is a common area building on the property with Wi-Fi, a bathroom and a kitchen area, which seemed to be used mostly for making tea or accessing the kitchen sink for water," explains Heather C.
Seasonal limitations: Most cabin operations close during late fall and winter. "We visited in October and it was really quiet and relaxing," notes one visitor about their off-season stay, when fewer amenities may be available but crowds are minimal.
Road access considerations: Some cabins require navigation on unpaved roads. During spring thaw (typically March-April), access roads may have muddy conditions requiring vehicles with adequate clearance.
Tips for camping with families
Cabin camping alternatives: Sugar Ridge RV Village & Campground offers family-friendly amenities beyond basic cabins. "We stayed here and were VERY happy! Dog friendly, mini golf, heated pool, two playgrounds, and crafts and fun things for the kids!" reports India H.
Activity planning: Many cabin locations lack structured children's programming. "This campground is very local to us. We have stayed here before in the passed and had a great time. They have a great little store and now they have Vermont Maple soft serve ice cream from my understanding. Kids love to play here and mini golf on site makes it even better," notes Chris H.
Water safety: Some waterfront cabins have direct access to ponds or rivers. "The river was behind our site. Perfect place to stay! We didn't want to leave," shares Wyndie G. about Moose River Campground, though parents should note water depths vary and most locations don't provide lifeguards.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Littleton / Franconia Notch KOA Holiday, riverside cabin and RV sites offer natural sound benefits. "Site #18 was gorgeous, close to the river so could hear the water every night, plenty of riverside sites," shares Robert L. about his September stay.
Utility considerations: When transitioning from cabin to RV camping, note hookup variations. "My only disappointment with the camp is that there are only a few sites with sewer hookup. However, the dumping station is conveniently located, so if you have a small tank, daily trips are not a problem," advises Dennis M.
Generator restrictions: Most cabin campgrounds prohibit generator use to maintain quiet environments. Electric hookups are available at many sites, though amperage varies widely between locations, from basic 15-amp service to full 50-amp connections.
