Northeast Vermont RV camping options surround Hardwick with varying levels of access across mountainous terrain. Most campgrounds sit between 900-1,400 feet elevation in the Northeast Kingdom and northern Green Mountains, with weather conditions that can change rapidly, particularly in spring and fall. Cell service varies significantly due to mountain topography, with coverage stronger at higher elevations along ridgelines.
What to do
Lake activities at Elmore State Park: The sandy beach on Lake Elmore provides swimming opportunities during summer months. "Great hiking. There is a fire tower you can hike at the top which provides beautiful views," notes camper Kelli M. about Elmore State Park Campground.
Mountain biking: Burke Mountain offers excellent trails with camping access. "Nice lean-to on the blue trail with a fire pit," explains Alex R. about Burke Campground, which connects to the mountain's extensive trail network.
Fishing opportunities: The Connecticut River offers productive fishing spots. "My friend and I took my son fishing and we landed some nice size fish big enough it scared my 7 year old son and he made me real it in," shares Chris H. about his experience at River Meadow Campground.
What campers like
Heated pool amenities: Several parks offer water features beyond natural swimming holes. "Kids were happy with the heated pool, horse rides, and other activities," writes Russ V. about his stay at Sugar Ridge RV Village & Campground.
Mountain views: The surrounding peaks create scenic backdrops for camping. "At Smugglers Notch RV Resort you have the Mountains as your Canvas and the beautiful campground your Palette for color," describes Catie B. at Smugglers Notch RV Village.
Riverfront settings: Several campgrounds offer direct water access. "This is a great spot to stop for a night with your RV and enjoy the river for a night. Easy to get to, just off of a one-way paved road," explains Miccal M. about Brookside RV Camping.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Most Hardwick area RV parks operate between May and October due to harsh winter conditions. "Our site looked angled on map so thinking it would be easier to approach from a certain direction to back in, drove in as I needed but found site was perpendicular to road," notes Russ V. about Sugar Ridge RV Village & Campground.
Privacy varies significantly: Some campgrounds feature more secluded sites than others. "The lean-tos are on a sunny open hill... Book the loop away from the road for the quietest campsites," advises Gail C. about Elmore State Park.
Weather preparation: Mountain weather can change quickly in all seasons. "Elmore state park is perfect for all types of campers... Early and late seasons are quiet," adds Gail C., highlighting the trade-offs between peak and shoulder seasons.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Look for campgrounds with structured activities. "They keep the campers busy with fun activities for kids and grown ups," explains Chris H. about River Meadow Campground.
Swimming options: Several parks have swimming areas suited for children. "A beautiful campground just a short walk to the lake. The Elmore Store just down the road has everything you need including AMAZING pizza (Fire Tower) and a great deli," mentions Shelley T.
Playground availability: Check for kid-friendly amenities. "We had a amazing time! Dog friendly, mini golf, heated pool, two playgrounds, and crafts and fun things for the kids!" shares India H. from her Sugar Ridge stay.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Pay attention to site details when booking. "They offer a variety of different sites to fit each campers needs, a beautiful well kept bath house and a small but well stocked store," notes Alan B. about Cannon Mountain RV Park.
Hookup verification: Confirm the specific utilities available at your site. "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," explains Russ V., highlighting the importance of verifying electrical service.
Navigation challenges: Many RV parks near Hardwick require careful driving through mountain roads. "This is new campground opened this past season. This is our 3rd visit and it gets better each time," shares Alan B. about Smugglers Notch RV Village, noting its convenient location despite mountain terrain.