Camping sites near Hartland, Vermont provide access to Vermont's elevated terrain ranging from 600-1500 feet above sea level across southeastern Vermont. The region's mixed hardwood forests create dense shade at most established campgrounds, helping moderate summer temperatures that typically range from 75-85°F during peak camping season. Most camping facilities in this region operate seasonally from May through mid-October when overnight temperatures remain above freezing.
What to do
Swimming at natural quarries: Located near Dorset RV Park, the local quarry offers a unique swimming experience. "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," reports one camper about this popular swimming spot.
Waterfall hikes: The trails around Jamaica State Park Campground lead to impressive natural water features. "There is plenty of trails in the area and you can go to the waterfall/rock slides and take a dip in the pools. The area is beautiful and good food across the street!" notes one visitor. Another adds, "Nice little weekend getaway. Clean bathrooms, roomy tent sites, nice staff. Fun playground and nature area for kids. Very family friendly place with beautiful hikes to Hamilton falls."
Boating and fishing: Sandy Beach Campground provides waterfront access for various boating activities. "Small but well organized campground. TT members will find all the comforts of home. Sandy beach by the water has plenty of room to relax out in the sun as well as launch areas to set out in a paddle boat, canoe or row boat, all available on site," explains a reviewer who enjoyed the water access.
What campers like
Well-maintained trails: Campers consistently praise the hiking options near Tree Farm Campground, which features on-site nature paths. "There's a cozy lounge room to hang out in with games, books, crayons, and puzzles; a dog park with toys included; and fabulous hiking trails with lots to see, including a pond, waterfalls, and streams," shares one enthusiastic visitor.
Pet-friendly accommodations: Many RV sites near Hartland, Vermont welcome pets with specific amenities. "The site was very friendly... a lot of seasonal folks. We had a nice corner site which fit our 34' rig just fine," reports a camper at Sandy Beach Campground who appreciated the pet-friendly policies.
Peaceful environments: The tranquility of camping locations around Hartland is frequently mentioned. "This is a very clean, quiet, gated campground, with easy beach access for the kids (and launching space for pontoon or bass boats). There is a playground, rentable kayaks and canoes, a basketball goal, frisbee golf, corn hole, horseshoes, yard darts etc," notes a visitor at Silver Lakes Park Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most RV campgrounds in the Hartland area have limited operating seasons. "This campground is clean and quiet, with sites that are spacious and private. The wifi is pretty darn good," explains a camper at Tree Farm Campground, which operates from May 10th to October 19th.
Cell service variations: Connectivity can be inconsistent throughout the region. "My wife and I spent the month of July at Riverbrook RV & Camping Resort and we couldn't have been happier. The owners are super friendly and accommodating; the park is clean, comfortable, and convenient to adventures in the White Mountains; and the wifi worked great...especially when compared to other campgrounds we've been to," notes one reviewer who was pleased with the rare reliable connectivity.
Natural hazards awareness: Some natural features require caution. "People have lost their lives at these falls so be extra cautious with children around the falls," warns a Jamaica State Park visitor about Hamilton Falls. Another adds, "Hike the scenic trail and take a right upward to Hamilton Falls, a gorgeous waterfall!! But heed the warning sign, people really have died at this waterfall."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature child-friendly recreation areas. "The bathrooms are sanitary and are not port-a-potties. For us, they also had a playground to play at, and a boat dock to kayak. The bugs were not fun in the summer. At night, we all had a great sleeping night with no crazy neighbors or dogs," reports a family who stayed at Jamaica State Park.
Swimming options: Water activities rate highly for family enjoyment. "We enjoyed our stay. The first site we got was way too small for our tent and they accommodated us and gave us a choice of two others to pick from. A lot of seasonal people but friendly. Playground is on the beach," notes a family who visited Sandy Beach Campground during July 4th.
On-site activities: Look for campgrounds with programmed events. "The adage 'you get what you pay for' just isn't true here. This campground is my new favorite. The owners, Liz and Ben, are super friendly, easy-going, and welcoming," shares a visitor at Tree Farm Campground who appreciated the family-oriented atmosphere that includes blueberry picking and organized activities.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Choosing the right spot matters for motorhome camping near Hartland. "Now, everyone's idea of a perfect campsite is different, but for us, the Newfound RV Park was perfection. 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," explains one RVer who found an ideal setup.
Navigation challenges: Some RV parks require careful driving. "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," warns a visitor at Dorset RV Park, noting the importance of understanding site access before arrival.
Hookup arrangements: Full-service RV sites vary in quality and placement. "For quick provisions there is a gas station/country store just up the road. They have a decent selection of groceries, a deli counter, and a few quick-serve items," notes an RVer who appreciated the convenient location and full-hookup capabilities at Newfound RV Park.
