Dee H.
Scout
ScoutSmugglers Notch RV Village
Excellent
Campground was clean and quiet. We arrived late but information was taped to the window at the office. Will was very helpful also and checked to make sure we arrived.
Camping near Hardwick, VT
187 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
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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.
Best Campgrounds near Hardwick (187)
1. Elmore State Park Campground
"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 Availability2. Mountain View Campground
"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."
3. Smugglers Notch State Park Campground
"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 Availability4. Little River State Park Campground
"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 Availability5. Kettle Pond State Park Campground
"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."
6. Ricker Pond State Park Campground
"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 Availability7. Sugar Ridge RV Village & Campground
"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 Availability8. New Discovery State Park Campground
"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 Availability9. Big Deer State Park Campground
"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."
10. Art and Health Chill Camping
"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
Drive Time
- 1 hr 9 min from Burlington, VT
- 2 hrs 12 min from Manchester, NH
- 2 hrs 42 min from Glens Falls, NY
- 3 hrs 1 min from Lewiston, ME
Recent Camping Photos near Hardwick, VT
413 Photos of 187 Hardwick Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Tentrr Signature Site - Bluejay Boulevard
Elmore State Park Campground
Art and Health Chill CampingH
Socks Family Farm
Mountain View Campground
Groton Forest Road Campground
Green River Reservoir State Park Campground
Meadowcrest CampgroundJ
New Discovery State Park Campground
Sugar Ridge RV Village & CampgroundI
Happy Hill Maple FarmsL
Kettle Pond State Park CampgroundR
Recent Reviews near Hardwick, VT
854 Reviews of 187 Hardwick Campgrounds
- WWill W.
GuideProuty Beach Campground
Car camped
Was lucky to get a tent camping spot due a late cancellation on holiday weekend. Arrived at sunset. Staff were exceedingly friendly and helpful. Site T1 looked out over the lake, had electric and water, and was adjacent to the bathroom. Absolutely no privacy or separation from adjacent tent site but didn’t bother me. Hot shower was 15 ft walk away. Recommend reservations since there’s not many other options in Newport. Columbus Day weekend was their closing weekend and this was Saturday night of that weekend.
- WWill W.Guide
North Beach Campground
Car camped
Car camped on Sunday of Columbus Day weekend in October. This was their closing weekend and lots of spaces were available. Stayed in tent circle loop and it was almost empty. Great access to lake shore and bike path. Walked back toward marina and town in the evening and ran in the morning the other direction going out to Rock Point. Didn’t use the shower facilities. The bathroom near our loop only had sinks and toilets and was fine.
- AAngela J.Scout
Elbow Pond Road Dispersed Site
Lovely Area Access Road Is A Speedway
We arrived on a Wednesday in early October with intentions of enjoying the foliage, which we did. We found the campsites easily and the access road is in good condition so the local speed through all day long.
I am not sure how many sites there are, we took the first one we would fit into. We travel with a Lance camper mounted on a Silverado.
My travel companions are cats and they are accustomed to the typical noises of RV life; truck stops, rest stops, neighboring campers and the occasional disrespectful loud jerks. At this spot we were serenaded by gun fire. I served in the military and grew up on a farm; guns don’t bother me in the least. I think of range fire as the sound of freedom, however, this started at dawn and did not stop until after the sun went down. The gunfire was so loud and consistent that the cats got spooked and took to hiding inside the camper.
We were going to stay for the weekend but left after our second night.
Not a bad spot (there is a small stream across the access road, not deep enough for true swimming but good enough for paddling around), surrounded by beautiful woods and no true neighbors, but between the never ending line of fast moving cars and the gun fire we decided to leave.
- SStacy M.Scout
Twin Mountain Campground
Twin Mountain Campground
We come to this campground every year to hike a few 4000+ mountains. Typically we come in the fall. There are several full hook up rv sites, some without sewer and several spots for RVs near the river. While the pizza shop (Celli's) is closed for renovations right now, we love their pizza and fries. The bathrooms are decent and there is hot water!
Keith P.
TravelerMaple Haven Campground
Great Campground
Quiet campground experience. Very cheerful staff member. Ice Cream shop is a bonus. We found a secluded spot without reservations. Monday evening. Some sites are tight for larger RVs but our Class B Camper Van fit fine.
- MMegan T.Guide
North Beach Campground
Great location
Stayed here to be able to do the bike trail. Was warned to keep the bikes locked up. The sites are very close together. The picnic tables and fire pits(tire rims) are moveable. Our picnic table was in rough shape and broken.
The bathrooms have keypads on them but on our last morning there was a guy in the bathroom with his pants on the floor sitting in a shower chair for a couple of hours. The bathrooms also have spiders all throughout them. The water pressure was high and the showers were hot.
- JJamie D.Guide
Mountain Lake Camping Resort
Clean and quiet
Seems clean and well-kept. Staff in the office are friendly and helpful.
- PPatrick L.Scout
Country Bumpkins Campground and Cabins
Owner/operator is terrible
We showed up early (10:50 am) and asked to check in prior to the 12 pm check-in time. The owner was working and she told us we could not. I walked over and saw that our site was empty, so my wife asked the owner again if we could check in early as there was nobody there and we had two 16-mo babies who were ready to get out of the car. She then kicked us off the property. This was on a festival weekend with nowhere else to stay, and I told her that. The owner did not care and we had to drive 2 ours home.
Guide to Hardwick
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.
What to do
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.
What campers like
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.
What you should know
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.
Tips for camping with families
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.
Tips from RVers
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?
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?
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?
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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