Cabin camping near Hardwick, Vermont offers year-round access to the Northeast Kingdom's diverse landscapes. The area sits at elevations ranging from 700 to 2,300 feet with a humid continental climate characterized by warm summers and snowy winters. Most cabin accommodations in this region operate from May through October, with several sites in Groton State Forest maintaining winter cabin rentals for cold-weather visitors.
What to do
Paddle local waterways: At Little River State Park Campground, visitors can explore the reservoir via kayak or canoe. "The lake is really nice for kayaking or swimming, and has some loons, but when we were there it carried lots of noise from other sites," notes a visitor. Non-motorized boats provide the best experience on many of the smaller ponds.
Hike historic trails: Smugglers Notch State Park Campground connects to Mount Mansfield's trail system. "You are minutes from some amazing hiking, which is great when you don't feel like driving long distances after a day hike," says one reviewer. Winter visitors can access additional terrain. "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. Hike/snowshoe in to your site as the gate is closed."
Visit craft breweries: Several breweries operate within 20 minutes of cabin accommodations. Ricker Pond State Park Campground offers access to regional breweries. "The nearby town of Morrisville has three craft breweries, one of which (Lost Nation) is located on the Lamoille River Trail which is a 90-mile rails-to-trails path great for walking/biking."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Art and Health Chill Camping provides cabins with ample space between neighbors. "Each area is far enough away from the others that you feel a sense of privacy and serenity," according to a recent visitor. The property spans 8 acres with natural buffer zones between camping areas.
Waterfront access: Several properties offer direct water access. "The reservoir was beautiful. Took the kayak, only issue I had was getting to the lake. Most sites up on hill looking over lake, not easily assessable from camp site," noted a camper at Little River State Park Campground. Water proximity varies by site selection.
Seasonal activities: Winter cabin options exist at select locations. A Smugglers Notch State Park Campground visitor explains: "Silent and starry nights, just make sure you have the gear/experience and a warm sleeping bag." Winter cabins typically require additional preparation as facilities remain closed during off-season.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Many cabin locations have restricted connectivity. At Art and Health Chill Camping, "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." Plan communications accordingly.
Varying shower facilities: Shower availability differs by property. "Showers, which we did not use, were $0.25 for four minutes," notes a Lazy Lions Campground reviewer. Some locations like Moose River Campground offer no bathroom/shower facilities in their cabin units.
Reservation timing: Advance planning proves essential. "Book in advance for the best availability!" advises a Ricker Pond State Park Campground visitor. Many cabins book months ahead, particularly waterfront units during peak summer season.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Family-friendly sites often include play areas. A visitor to Sugar Ridge RV Village & Campground reported, "Kids were happy with the heated pool, horse rides, and other activities. Entire location on rolling hills gives the feeling of a small campground but it is fairly large."
Water recreation: Swimming options vary by location. "The reservoir is a fun place to explore via kayak and canoe as well as by motorboat! We tend to hang at the site more than the beaches as the beaches are very small and full of children," notes a Little River State Park Campground visitor.
Educational programs: Seek out ranger-led activities when available. "The ranger programming was exceptional, as are the views and the nearby areas for hiking and backpacking," comments a Smugglers Notch State Park Campground camper regarding seasonal educational offerings.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: RV pads vary in quality across the region. At Singing Wood Farm, "The sites in the field are generally un-level, and we had to really work to level our trailer." Bring additional leveling equipment when traveling with wheeled accommodations.
Electric hookup variations: Power connections differ by site. At Sugar Ridge RV Village & Campground, "Family staying next to us found their site had 50 amp service not the expected 30 amp and they needed to borrow an adapter cord (which was free). Labeling individual site power on map would be helpful."
Road conditions: Access roads present challenges at some locations. A visitor at Mountain View Campground observed, "The campground is located near the interstate for easy in and out but there are no pull-thrus so you will have to unhook no matter how long you are staying." Prepare for potential unhitching requirements.
