North Hartland Lake camping options extend beyond traditional sites to include distinctive accommodation styles set amid Vermont's changing seasonal landscape. The area sits within a temperate climate zone with average summer temperatures between 70-85°F and crisp fall nights in the 40-50°F range. For campers seeking alternatives to tents and RVs, several campgrounds offer yurt camping near North Hartland Lake, providing more substantial shelter while maintaining a connection to the outdoors.
What to do
Hiking access to Appalachian Trail: The Gifford Woods State Park Campground provides direct access to the Appalachian Trail. "The AT runs right through the park and you can hike up to Deer Leep, around Kent Pond, or to Thundering Falls right from the campground," notes a visitor who appreciated the variety of trail options.
Swimming in natural water: At Emerald Lake State Park Campground, campers enjoy swimming in the distinctive green waters. "There's a small, sandy beach at one end of the lake, with a bath house and changing rooms nearby. Swimmers can swim out the a small island in the middle of the lake and check out the rope swing," explains one camper about the park's unique swimming options.
Attend local events: Quechee-Pine Valley KOA offers seasonal events that make camping more engaging. "The hot air balloon festival is amazing! This is a safe, quiet family friendly campground. They have wonderful activities and the staff are so courteous and helpful," mentions one regular visitor who returns annually for this special event.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Quechee State Park Campground offers well-spaced camping areas. "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," explains one reviewer who appreciated both the spaciousness and amenities.
Clean facilities: Crow's Nest Campground receives praise for its maintenance. "Mostly seasonals and RVs but there are some nice spots by the river. Most sites do not have much privacy, but the campground itself is very quiet and clean," shares a tent camper who enjoyed the riverside location despite the campground's RV focus.
Outdoor cooking amenities: Pine Haven campers appreciate the cooking features. "The fire places are really nice with a cooking grate on top," notes a tent camper who found this practical feature enhanced their outdoor cooking experience.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Some campgrounds in the region have connectivity challenges. At Pine Haven, one camper noted, "We didn't have much cell service at the campground, which didn't bother us," while others mention this could be an issue for those needing to stay connected.
Seasonal weather impacts: Vermont camping experiences vary dramatically by season. "Fall weekends are super crowded," mentions a Gifford Woods State Park visitor, highlighting how autumn foliage attracts larger crowds to the region.
Road noise varies: Some campgrounds experience road noise. At Emerald Lake State Park, a reviewer mentioned, "There is some road noise from the campground at night, but overall this is a pretty fantastic camping experience," indicating it's present but not overwhelming.
Tips for camping with families
Look for family programs: Moose Hillock Camping Resort offers specialized activities. "The pool really is as awesome as it looks. The playground is amazing," shares a family camper who found these amenities made their stay more enjoyable.
Check site topography: Emerald Lake State Park requires careful site selection. "While there are trails down to the lake from the campground, none of the sites are waterfront, or even water view. In fact, many of them are perched on a steep ledge, making them a bit sketchy for families with kids," advises a camper about selecting appropriate sites.
Consider yurt options: Caton Place Campground offers yurt camping near North Hartland Lake as an alternative to tent camping. "Nice well maintained Campground," notes a visitor, while the campground uniquely provides yurt accommodations among its options, making it easier for families new to camping.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability varies: Quechee-Pine Valley KOA provides full-service options. "There is the range of sites from pull-thrus, pull-ins and back-in sites and can accommodate RVs of any size. Some sites are full hookup while others are not and that is reflected in the cost," explains an RVer who appreciated the variety of options.
Site leveling challenges: RVers should prepare for uneven terrain. "Some of the sites were not really level," mentions a camper at Moose Hillock, indicating the importance of bringing leveling blocks when camping in Vermont's hilly landscape.
Size restrictions matter: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger rigs. "This campground is not big rig friendly," warns a Caton Place visitor, underscoring the importance of verifying size restrictions before booking.
