Camping near Hartford, Vermont offers diverse experiences from mid-May through October, with most facilities closing during winter months. The Connecticut River valley terrain creates varied camping environments ranging from 400 to 2,000 feet elevation. Natural features include mature maple-beech forests and seasonal streams that flow heavily during spring thaw and after summer storms.
What to do
Waterfall hiking: Jamaica State Park Campground provides excellent access to Hamilton Falls, a popular natural attraction. "Find something that you dont like about this park... go ahead, ill wait. Small town general store, no cell service and a gorgeous back drop is a perfect spot to just unwind from the real world," notes one visitor. The park maintains hiking trails ranging from easy riverside paths to more challenging waterfall routes.
Swimming at natural quarries: Located about 35 miles from Hartford, Dorset RV Park offers access to nearby swimming options. "Great location near a fantastic quarry, country store, and Manchester shopping. The camp grounds were family friendly and quiet. They even had rabbits and chickens for the kids to enjoy," explains a camper. The quarry provides a unique swimming experience different from traditional lake beaches.
Blueberry picking: Tree Farm Campground offers seasonal blueberry picking right on the property. "Even blueberry picking on site. The owners Ben and Elizabeth were super," reports a visitor. The picking season typically runs from mid-July through August, with peak ripeness varying based on seasonal conditions.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campers consistently mention site spacing as a positive feature at many campgrounds near Hartford. "Spacious, wooded sites, super clean...friendly, helpful owners and gorgeous setting!" notes a Tree Farm Campground visitor. Sites typically include standard fire rings and picnic tables, with trees providing natural boundaries.
River access: Multiple campgrounds offer stream or river frontage. At Brookside RV Camping, visitors appreciate the waterside location. "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 a recent guest. Rivers provide opportunities for wading, fishing, and photography.
Indoor facilities for rainy days: Some campgrounds maintain indoor recreation spaces. "There's a cozy lounge room to hang out in with games, books, crayons, and puzzles," mentions a Tree Farm visitor. These spaces become particularly valuable during Vermont's frequent summer thunderstorms.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds in the Hartford region have spotty connectivity. At Jamaica State Park Campground, a visitor notes "no cell service and a gorgeous back drop is a perfect spot to just unwind from the real world." Service tends to improve at higher elevations or when closer to towns.
Variable shower quality: Bathroom facilities vary significantly between campgrounds. "Bathrooms and showers were also kept nice and clean which is always a plus," reports a Jamaica State Park visitor. However, not all campgrounds maintain the same standards, and some require quarters for shower operation.
Seasonal variations: Most rv campgrounds near Hartford, Vermont operate on limited schedules. "The campground operates seasonally from May through mid-October with well-maintained grounds," notes a visitor about Tree Farm Campground. Spring camping often involves muddier conditions, while fall offers colorful foliage but cooler temperatures.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly trails: Many campgrounds maintain easier walking paths for younger visitors. "There's a playground, rentable kayaks and canoes, a basketball goal, frisbee golf, corn hole, horseshoes, yard darts etc," explains a visitor at Silver Lakes Park Campground. Trail difficulty varies, so ask camp hosts for age-appropriate recommendations.
Weekend activities: Several campgrounds schedule regular events for children. "There are community activities like bonfires, bingo, pot luck dinners, and complementary donuts& coffee every Sunday morning," notes a Dorset RV Park visitor. Activity schedules typically post at registration offices or common areas.
Swimming options: Water access varies considerably between locations. "Silver Lake Park Campground and Cabins was an incredibly well maintained campground off Jamestown Road in Belmont NH. This is a very clean, quiet, gated campground, with easy beach access for the kids," writes a visitor. Always check water conditions before swimming, as water levels and clarity change throughout the season.
Tips from RVers
Access challenges: RV operators should research campground access routes. At Newfound RV Park, "Our compacted ground site was level and had a dedicated patch of grass with a small tree. We personally felt that the sites were all well-spaced, we've been in campgrounds much, much closer," shares a visitor. Mountain roads around Hartford often include steep grades and tight turns.
Loop selection: Campground layouts matter significantly for larger rigs. "Larger rigs might want to avoid loop 6-14, especially for sites 8-12. Tree placement and a pretty sharp 110+ degree turn makes it challenging to maneuver," cautions a visitor to Dorset RV Park. When booking rv campgrounds in the Hartford area, specify your vehicle length to ensure appropriate site assignment.
Seasonal availability: The limited operating season affects RV campground options. "Newfound RV Park provides seasonal camping from May through October with full hookup sites and pull-through options," notes a traveler. Reservations are strongly recommended for summer weekends, with holiday periods often booking 6-12 months in advance.
