Camping options near Hartland, Vermont combine access to the Appalachian Trail system with riverside camping along the Connecticut and Black rivers. Sites generally sit at elevations between 600-1200 feet, creating moderate temperature variations between valley locations and more elevated campgrounds. Summer daytime temperatures typically range from 75-85°F, with overnight lows dropping to 50-60°F even during peak season.
What to do
Hiking at Gifford Woods State Park: Located about 40 minutes from Hartland, this park offers direct access to multiple trails including connections to the Appalachian Trail. "We met a number of AT through hikers, who were very willing to share their adventure stories," notes one visitor to Gifford Woods State Park Campground.
River activities at Quechee State Park: The gorge and riverside trails provide swimming and wading opportunities during summer months. "We were able to walk to the gorge as well as to the Antique mall. The staff was very friendly and accommodating with us," reports a camper at Quechee State Park Campground.
Exploring local waterways: Several campgrounds offer river access for cooling off. At Pine Haven, "The sites near the river are really nice, a big of a steep slope down to the river. The river is about thigh deep and you can easily walk in it/swim at potions." Kayaking and fishing opportunities exist at multiple water access points.
What campers like
Private campsites: Campers frequently mention site spacing as a major benefit at certain locations. At Quechee-Pine Valley KOA, reviewers appreciate the layout: "From the second we pulled into this campground we were greeted with 5 star service and friendly staff. A woman met us at my truck and checked us in and we were then guided to our site."
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness stands out in reviews across multiple campgrounds. At Emerald Lake State Park Campground, campers note: "We camped here with our dog on a tent site in camping area B. I really appreciated the VT state parks interactive campground map, which allowed us to see the sites from home and choose the one that would suit us best."
Riverside glamping options: Several properties offer premium glamping accommodations. At Caton Place Campground, luxury yurt options provide glamping near Hartland with modern comforts. A recent visitor noted the property is "Clean and well manicured. Bath House is currently being updated. It is very clean."
What you should know
Seasonal variations: Most campgrounds in the region operate from May through mid-October. Weather can change rapidly, especially at higher elevations. At Emerald Lake, one camper mentioned: "We had a lean to site at this campground. Facilities were great. The lake was beautiful and rented boats and canoes."
Limited hookups at state parks: Vermont state parks generally don't offer electrical or water hookups at individual sites. "There are no hookups but they do have a dump station if you are in a RV. They also have several lean-tos that you can rent. The staff and volunteers are very helpful."
Road noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience highway noise based on proximity to main roads. "The park is close to good shopping, and also the Billings-Rockefeller National Historic Park in Woodstock, which is an awesome destination for families. Camping was fairly quiet, except for the noise from the road, which is very close to the park."
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Many campgrounds offer scheduled events for children. At Moose Hillock Camping Resort, "Rangers also run fun programs for children- my children churned butter and made popcorn over the campfire one night, and made tie dyed T-shirts the next (for no fee)."
Site selection for little ones: Pay attention to terrain when booking. "The campground is very hilly and kids are ripping around in pedal and motorized bikes and scooters which is fine but no control at all in regards to speed and helmets."
Water features for cooling off: Multiple campgrounds offer swimming areas. "The campsites are private and spacious, there is a nice field for kids to play in, and clean washrooms. The park is dog-friendly, which we always appreciate."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Some campgrounds have restrictions for larger rigs. A visitor to Caton Place noted: "Upon arrival the owner made me go with them to the site and leave the motorhome blocking the entrance into the campground. The roads aren't wide enough to take a motorhome into. The pull through site is not level and is barely long enough to fit my 43' rig."
Leveling challenges: Terrain at some campgrounds requires careful positioning. "The sites are large. If you stay in the back it's quieter. The bathroom is very clean. They offer showers that cost you a few quarters. There are no hookups but they do have a dump station if you are in a RV."
Site delivery services: Some private campgrounds offer convenient amenities. "Within the hour we were sent a text asking if we needed any supplies such as firewood and ice. Our firewood order arrived within minutes with a big smile and even took a few minutes to chat with my young son."
