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The region surrounding Hardwick, Vermont features multiple campground options throughout the Green Mountains, with several state parks and private facilities accommodating diverse camping styles. Elmore State Park Campground, located about 15 miles northwest of Hardwick, offers tent and RV sites with lake access, while Mountain View Campground in Morrisville provides full-service camping with cabin rentals. The Groton State Forest area hosts multiple developed campgrounds including Ricker Pond and Kettle Pond State Parks, which offer primitive tent sites, RV spots without hookups, and waterfront camping opportunities.
Most campgrounds in the Hardwick region operate seasonally from May through mid-October, with limited winter access. "Most sites were mostly private," noted one camper at Elmore State Park. The area experiences typical New England weather patterns with warm summers and cold, snowy winters. State park campgrounds typically require reservations, especially for weekend stays during peak summer months. Many facilities offer drinking water and vault toilets, though amenities vary significantly between developed and primitive sites. Cell service can be limited in more remote areas, particularly in the Green Mountain valleys and forested campgrounds. Roads to most developed sites accommodate standard vehicles, though some remote access points may require high clearance.
Waterfront camping represents a significant draw throughout the region, with several state parks situated on ponds and lakes. At Green River Reservoir State Park, campers highlight the remote paddling experience: "It's private, quiet, and really gives you that forest bathing escape." Most state park campgrounds feature clean facilities with varying levels of amenities—some offer hot showers while others provide only vault toilets. Privately operated facilities like Mountain View Campground typically offer more amenities, including electric hookups, swimming pools, and camp stores, though at higher nightly rates. The proximity to hiking trails, especially in the Groton State Forest area, makes many campgrounds popular bases for outdoor recreation, with several sites offering direct trail access for day hiking or backpacking opportunities.
"Our lean-to, Hickory is situated in a lovely meadow, but quite close to other campers and a view that overlooks the campground road. There is very little shade and no privacy."
"Great hiking trails from easy to difficult. Early and late seasons are quiet. It's quite busy during the summer months as the lake is great for families and swimming."
from $19 - $28 / night
Check Availability"It can get a bit noisy due to the proximity to the highway, but it's still a good option for car camping in this part of Vermont."
"Nice grass site with a large field behind, and Just a short walk to the river. Clean facilities and proximity for exploring Stowe and surrounding areas. Would love to camp here again."
"I’d say this was one of Vermont’s best kept secrets, except I don’t think it’s exactly a secret. Even in October, the Park seemed full with visitors and Stowe was hopping!"
"They don't have all the usual amenities its more of a primitive set up. has great clean sites with multiple ways to access mount mansfields trail system which is the highest mountain in the state of Vermont"
from $20 / night
Check Availability"Little River State Park is located just outside of Waterbury Vermont so it’s an ideal location for jumping off on other adventures!"
"We came here to hike the Dalley Loop Trail (which is a great trail full of history), but we wish we had camped here instead of the private campground 45 minutes away where we did stay."
from $19 - $28 / night
Check Availability"Remote campsite #9 was a bit wet this spring but in truth everything has been wet here in Vermont this year. 3 night get away with son, and first time on Kettle pond."
"Kettle Pond is a classic northern pond set in Vermont's Groton State Forest."
"This campground is easy to access, though owing to that one can hear traffic on the nearby road. The lake is beautiful, clear and clean, and there is a beach with sand for swimming."
"The campground has a small beach, boat launch and it's right on the Cross Vermont Trail. I stayed in October and it was really quiet and relaxing."
from $19 - $110 / night
Check Availability"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."
"We truly enjoyed this park most sites are spacious and some good ones with privacy as well you have walking trails local stores, and a pond too !! We will be back 100%"
from $50 / night
Check Availability"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."
from $20 - $38 / night
Check Availability"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."
"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."
"It is a private landowners land, and she has various camping options including a cabin, hives, or open locations for rv or tent camping. "
from $35 - $75 / night
Check Availability
GuideIt’s a nice relatively small campground in a pretty setting. Sites are fairly close, and there’s definitely some longer tempura residents, but it’s well kept and seems like a nice place to stay.
TravelerIt was everything we were looking for, right on the river, quiet and clean, the section we stayed in was all tent camping so we weren’t sandwiched in between a bunch of RVs blocking the view. There was no lights, generators or loud music. Alcohol wasn’t permitted so that really cuts down on a lot of unnecessary nonsense. Pets are permitted and our dog loved it. It was very pleasant and relaxing. Can’t wait to go back.
ScoutVery nice campground with great modern facilities. Many of the RV lots have nice views of Lake Champlain.
ScoutWe stayed in site #5. It was grassy and had a little creek running next to it that was lovely to listen to.
TravelerWe just got home from our week at Fransted Family Campground and am already looking forward to returning next year. The location of the campground was perfect - especially for exploring the Franconia Notch region. There is a nice mix of RV and tent sites. The tent sites are well shaded and felt spaced out compared to other places I have camped. We had a site on the stream which was nice. Fell asleep each night listening to the water. I only used one of the bathhouses, but it was clean. Showers were clean (separate rooms). Customer service was off the charts. So friendly and helpful. There was a number we could call to get firewood if the store was closed and they were also so nice about it too. There is free WiFi, but it really only works up near the front office. But there is a beautiful pavilion with nice furniture to relax on if you needed to go and use WiFi (or just relax for that matter). We didn’t have kids with us, but there are a lot of lawn games, a playground, courts and field available. Overall, very quiet but Al family friendly. I will definitely be back.
ScoutLove it here, great for swimming, kayaking and camping with your family
ScoutThis dirt road joins with Trudue rd to form a loop. There are pull in/back in sites with plenty of privacy. No cell service. Only a couple or of sites offer sun so use of solar can be difficult. Starlink does not work.
Sites are roomy, private and close to streams. There is hiker traffic that adds to the charm. A lovely place to camp. There
ScoutSpent a night here. Sites are grass for most part and level. Plenty of room. We did the water and electric site.
ScoutGenuinely one of the most fun weekends I had, staff was amazing and cordial and the other people were friendly; the only thing that I wasn’t a huge fan of was the proximity to other campers. While it’s far enough away for some privacy, at night you can hear people snoring rather loudly.
Camping spots near Hardwick, Vermont offer diverse options throughout the 26,000-acre Groton State Forest where elevation ranges from 900 to 2,700 feet. The region experiences typical New England seasonal shifts with July temperatures averaging 69°F and January averaging 14°F. Most campgrounds in this area maintain vault or composting toilets during off-seasons when shower facilities are winterized.
Hike to fire towers: At Elmore State Park Campground, visitors can access hiking trails leading to panoramic views. "There is a fire tower you can hike at the top which provides beautiful views," notes Kelli M. The trail is moderate difficulty but accessible for most skill levels.
Bike the Cross Vermont Trail: Several campgrounds connect to this multi-use path built on old railroad beds. "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," shares a camper from Kettle Pond State Park Campground.
Winter camping opportunities: Some areas offer off-season access without fees. "Stayed at a lean-to site here in March of 2019. 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," reports Ed M. about Smugglers Notch State Park Campground.
Remote paddling experiences: Campers frequently mention the quiet waters. "Remote campsite #9 was a bit wet this spring but in truth everything has been wet here in Vermont this year. 3 night get away with son, and first time on Kettle pond," writes Rick S. The majority of ponds prohibit motorized boats.
Night sky viewing: Clear nights offer exceptional stargazing opportunities. "Because our lean-to was in a meadow with no tree coverage, we were treated to the most awesome night sky we've ever seen at a Vermont state park. It was mesmerizing!" reports Tara S.
Local food access: Many campgrounds are within short driving distance of local establishments. "The Elmore Store just down the road has everything you need including AMAZING pizza (Fire Tower) and a great deli," mentions Shelley T. from Elmore State Park Campground.
Seasonal considerations: Operating dates vary by campground but generally run May through mid-October. "We stayed in a cabin and it was absolutely wonderful. It was clean and had everything we needed. All of the buildings were meticulously kept and the staff were incredibly friendly," notes Sarah C. about Mountain View Campground facilities.
Water access requirements: Some campsites require transporting drinking water. "Keep in mind this is a pack in pack out location. You are not allowed to cut wood, and only fallen dead is available for use," explains Miccal M. about primitive camping options.
Bathroom facilities: Expect varying levels of amenities. "The Women's bathroom ran out of toilet paper and was never replaced. More upsetting was that the soap container was empty all weekend," reports Robin B. at New Discovery State Park, highlighting maintenance challenges during busy periods.
Multi-day exploration bases: The interconnected nature of Groton State Forest allows for extended stays. "You are minutes from some amazing hiking, which is great when you don't feel like driving long distances after a day hike," notes Ben C. about Smugglers Notch State Park Campground.
Swimming opportunities: Many sites offer water access. "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," describes Hannah H. at Ricker Pond State Park Campground.
Educational experiences: Several parks offer ranger programs. "I just took our Cub Scout Pack here and it was amazing. Bring Deet the bugs are thick but the things the kids learned and got to do they were entertained for the weekend," shares Chris H.
Hookup availability: Most state parks lack full hookups. "Nice family campground nestled in between route 15 and the lamoille River. Great car accessible tent sites right on the water and plenty of amenities that the kids will love," explains Jason D. about Mountain View Campground.
Site leveling requirements: Many campsites require adjustment. "Our gravel pad had a slight slope to it but we were able to get level. The pad was long enough to fit our RV with just enough room to fit the car in front," mentions Nancy W. about the terrain at Mountain View Campground.
Access considerations: Road conditions vary significantly. "There is a parking lot near the main road where you can park. The hike around the pond is nice, but wet, rocky and you need to be a sure-footed person," notes Miccal M., highlighting potential challenges for larger vehicles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any free camping areas around Hardwick?
Free camping options around Hardwick are limited, but there are some possibilities. Woods Island State Park Campground is not free but offers a unique island camping experience at a reasonable price point. For those willing to venture a bit further, Groton Forest Road Campground offers some of the most affordable camping in the region. True free camping (dispersed camping) may be found in Green Mountain National Forest areas, though you'll need to follow Forest Service regulations including camping at least 200 feet from trails, roads, and water sources. Always check current regulations with the local ranger district office before attempting dispersed camping, as rules can change seasonally and permits may be required in some areas.
What are the best campgrounds near Hardwick?
Several excellent campgrounds are located near Hardwick, Vermont. Mountain View Campground is a family-friendly option nestled between Route 15 and the Lamoille River, offering tent sites along the water and activities for children. For a more nature-immersed experience, Little River State Park Campground near Waterbury provides a perfect base for exploring the region with proximity to local restaurants and attractions. Other notable options within driving distance include Ricker Pond State Park and New Discovery State Park, both offering peaceful woodland settings with water access and basic facilities for campers seeking a more serene experience in Vermont's natural landscape.
What amenities are available at Hardwick campgrounds?
Campgrounds near Hardwick offer a range of amenities to suit different camping styles. Art and Health Chill Camping provides diverse accommodation options including cabins, hives, and open spaces for RVs or tent camping on private land. For more traditional campground amenities, Jacobs Brook Campground offers clean, quiet wooded sites with separate areas for seasonal and short-term campers. Amenities at area campgrounds typically include restrooms, showers, potable water, picnic tables, and fire rings. Some larger facilities like KOAs and state parks may provide additional features such as swimming pools, camp stores, electrical hookups, dump stations, laundry facilities, playgrounds, and Wi-Fi access. Most campgrounds require reservations, especially during peak summer season.
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