Little River State Park Campground sites open seasonally from May 19 to October 22 with seasonal variations affecting site availability and water access. The campground features 81 tent/RV sites and 20 lean-tos distributed between two camping loops (A and B), with some waterfront sites requiring advance booking. Waterbury Reservoir water levels fluctuate throughout the season, sometimes dropping significantly by late summer which affects shoreline access from certain campsites.
What to do
Explore historical ruins on hiking trails: The Little River area contains numerous abandoned homestead foundations, cellar holes, and a historic cemetery dating to the 1800s. "There are lots of old foundations hidden on the trails that are fun to discover," notes Rita M. at Little River State Park Campground.
Rent watercraft at Stillwater State Park: Canoe and kayak rentals available directly from the park office make water exploration accessible without bringing your own equipment. "Paddling out on the lake has to be the best way to enjoy this wonderful area. With boats available for rent, you don't even need to bring your own," explains Shari G. at Stillwater State Park Campground.
Visit during fall foliage season: The Groton State Forest campgrounds offer exceptional foliage viewing from mid-September through mid-October. "We stayed in October and it was really quiet and relaxing. There is absolutely no cell service for miles, so plan accordingly," shares Michele S. from Ricker Pond State Park Campground.
What campers like
Motor-free pond experiences: Ricker Pond offers a quieter alternative to the more popular reservoir areas. "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," says Hannah H. at Ricker Pond State Park Campground.
Access to the Cross Vermont Trail: Several Groton Forest campgrounds connect directly to this converted rail trail. "We had our trail bikes so took advantage of the Montpelier-Wells Rail Trail (Cross Vermont Trail), accessible directly from the campground," reports Emma B. from Mount Philo State Park Campground.
Winter camping options: For experienced winter campers, some sites offer off-season primitive camping. "Stayed at a lean-to site here in March. 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," explains Ed M. from Smugglers Notch State Park Campground.
What you should know
Book waterfront sites early: Waterfront sites are the most sought-after for glamping close to Montpelier, Vermont. "I've been visiting Ricker Pond for nearly 20 years (except for the years that I don't book enough in advance and aren't able to secure a spot for my desired length of stay). My favorite lean to site is directly on the water, private, and fills up fast," advises Neena B.
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds in the Groton Forest have minimal connectivity. "Leave your mobile devices off, because cell towers haven't quite made it to this quiet corner of the woods," notes Shari G. about Stillwater State Park.
Variable site privacy: Site selection matters significantly for privacy levels. "Sites 1, 6 and 8 are the best if you're only camping with those at your site as they're the most secluded and private. Sites 2 and 3 are more open, to both each other, and to those en route to the bathrooms," details Drew Q. from Mount Philo State Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Consider camper beaches: When glamping with children near Montpelier, select campgrounds with designated swimming areas. "We visited here with our 5 kiddos for 2 nights late July. The facilities were clean, the small playground was great, and the small boat launch and beach kept us in the water," shares Rita M. about Little River State Park.
Pack extra quarters for showers: Most state park showers require quarters. "Bathrooms were clean. Showers were quarter operated, 50 cents for 5 minutes. Firewood sold on site," notes Beau B. from Mount Philo State Park.
Find no-reservation winter options: Families with flexible winter plans can utilize some sites without booking. "Free of charge during off season, you just have to call a couple weeks ahead to reserve. Hike/snowshoe in to your site as the gate is closed and the area is not plowed," explains Ed M. from Smugglers Notch State Park.
Tips for RVers
Check site access restrictions: Not all glamping sites near Montpelier accommodate larger RVs. "Because the road is steep and winding, it's not suitable for RVs," warns Tara S. about Mount Philo State Park Campground.
Consider amenity limitations: Most state parks have minimal hookups. "The campground has a mix of lean-tos and tent sites. There are waterfront, waterview, and regular sites. Depending on the site booked, the price can vary by a few dollars," explains Rita M. about Stillwater State Park.
Research route limitations: Some campground access roads have restrictions. "Smuggler's Notch is close enough to Stowe to not be a hassle to drive to, but far enough away that it's quiet and remote," shares Ben C., providing useful information for RVers considering glamping options near Montpelier and Stowe areas.