Glamping options near Hardwick, Vermont feature a mix of canvas tents and cabin accommodations situated within the Green Mountains. Most sites operate seasonally from mid-May through mid-October, with winter options limited due to Vermont's harsh climate. Campgrounds around Hardwick connect to extensive trail systems throughout Groton State Forest, with elevations ranging from 900 to 2,300 feet above sea level.
What to do
Backcountry skiing access: During winter months, Smugglers Notch State Park offers free off-season camping at lean-to sites. "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 and the area is not plowed. Right in the middle of great nordic and alpine backcountry skiing and snowshoeing," notes Ed M. from Smugglers Notch State Park Campground.
Paddle exploration: Ricker Pond offers multiple watercraft rental options for those who don't bring their own equipment. "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. If you paddle or swim to the other side of the camp ground, there is a huge rock with a rope swing," shares Hannah H. from Ricker Pond State Park Campground.
Historical hiking: Explore abandoned homestead foundations throughout the trails surrounding Little River State Park. "There are lots of old foundations hidden on the trails that are fun to discover," explains Rita M. about the hiking trails at Little River State Park. The trails connect multiple camping areas throughout Groton State Forest.
What campers like
Private lean-tos: Smugglers Notch offers walk-in sites that create a more secluded experience. "Some of the campsites on the outside ring you need to walk into (a very short distance), but it makes it feel very secluded and less like car camping," explains Jess O., highlighting the unique camping layout that differentiates this location from other state parks.
Reservoir access: Little River's proximity to the water provides convenient swimming and boating opportunities. "We had easy access to hikes in Stowe, plus the Ben and Jerry's shop is about 20 minutes down the road! The bathrooms were clean, the site was well maintained, and the reservoir was a great place to relax after a day of hiking," shares Alison O. from Little River State Park Campground.
Bike trail connectivity: Multiple campgrounds connect directly to the Cross Vermont Trail (formerly the Montpelier & Wells River Rail Trail). "The campground is right on the Cross Vermont Trail. I stayed in October and it was really quiet and relaxing. There is absolutely no cell service for miles, so plan accordingly," notes Michele S. about Ricker Pond State Park Campground.
What you should know
No cell service: Most glamping sites in the Groton State Forest area have extremely limited connectivity. "There is absolutely no cell service for miles, so plan accordingly," warns Michele S. about the remote nature of these camping areas.
Weather considerations: Late spring camping can involve significant insects. "Beautiful campsite in Smugglers Notch State Park. Central to everything in Stowe and minutes away from the resort. The only complaint is mosquitos were rampant in standing water near our site. Bring bug spray," advises Eleanor W. from Smugglers Notch State Park Campground.
Grocery planning: Limited shopping options exist near camping areas. "Make sure you bring the right provisions. This area of VT is 25-30 minutes from any type of grocery store. There is the camp store, but their stock is limited," notes Rita M. about Stillwater State Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Ranger programming: State parks offer educational activities throughout the summer. "On our second day, there was an interpretive program at the pavilion. The ranger led visitors in making bark boats out of materials found in the park. The project was a great idea, as the kids could test their boats right there in the lake," shares Rita M. about the family-friendly activities at Stillwater State Park.
Swimming areas: Multiple beaches cater to families with young children. "There is a small beach with sand for swimming. We had our trail bikes so took advantage of the Montpelier-Wells Rail Trail (Cross Vermont Trail), accessible directly from the campground," explains Emma B. about Ricker Pond State Park.
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. "We visited here with our 5 kiddos for 2 nights late July 2016. The facilities were clean, the small playground was great, and the small boat launch and beach kept us in the water," notes Rita M. about her family's experience at Little River.
Tips from RVers
Uneven terrain: Many campsites require extra work for RV leveling. "The sites in the field are generally un-level, and we had to really work to level our trailer," explains Heather C. about her experience at Singing Wood Farm.
Seasonal accessibility: Most glamping options and RV sites close by mid-October. "We are here for their last weekend the campground is open. Foliage is just past peak, the staff is friendly, the store is pretty well stocked and everything is clean and tidy," notes Keith L. from Kingdom Campground regarding the end-of-season conditions.
Limited hookups: Most state parks lack extensive RV amenities. "They don't have all the usual amenities its more of a primitive set up," explains Michael V. about Smugglers Notch, reflecting the rustic nature of most state park campgrounds in the region.