Dog-Friendly Camping near North Hartland Lake, VT

North Hartland Lake sits at approximately 450 feet above sea level in the Connecticut River Valley of Vermont, surrounded by dense northern hardwood forests. The area receives average annual precipitation of 41 inches and temperatures ranging from winter lows of 10°F to summer highs around 81°F. Camping options span from state-managed facilities with lean-tos to private campgrounds with full hookups, many accommodating both tent campers and RVers.

What to do

Hike Mount Ascutney: Access multiple trails ranging from moderate to challenging at Mount Ascutney State Park Campground. "There are four different trails up the mountain of varying levels of difficulty. You can also drive right to the top and hike around on the summit trails, which are really pretty and pop out onto ledges with gorgeous vistas," notes Tara S.

Paddle the Connecticut River: Rent canoes or kayaks at Wilgus State Park Campground. "Set on the banks of CT River Wilgus has tent sites, lean to's and 4 newly built cabins. There is also a boat launch for drift boats as well," explains Tim K. The park offers river access for fishing, paddling, and relaxation.

Visit historic sites: Explore the Calvin Coolidge Homestead near Coolidge State Park Campground. "Take advantage of the historical site nearby (President Calvin Coolidge's homestead) and long trail brewing," suggests Danielle S. The presidential birthplace and homestead is maintained as a historic site with period furnishings.

What campers like

Clean facilities: Campers consistently praise the upkeep at Vermont state parks. At Gifford Woods State Park Campground, "The staff were wonderful, the sites are pristine and picturesque, the faculties are decorated with wildflowers," reports Thomas M. Bathroom cleanliness is frequently mentioned as exceeding expectations.

Private sites: Many campgrounds in the area offer good spacing between sites. "Sites are very well maintained and have decent spacing between sites. The mountain biking trails are awesome and the hiking is fantastic!" shares Dana M. about Mount Ascutney State Park.

Natural swimming areas: Several campgrounds provide swimming access during summer months. "There is a beach with wading depth, sand for playing, buoys to mark the shallow area, a large dock to jump from with a ladder for climbing out," describes Hannah H. about Silver Lake State Park, noting it's excellent for families.

What you should know

Road noise: Highway proximity affects some campgrounds in the region. At Quechee State Park Campground, "Big, flat, beautiful sites. Road noise isn't super loud, but it's constant. Might be the nicest bathrooms I've seen in decades of camping," notes reviewer B.

Limited hookups: Most Vermont state parks don't offer electrical hookups. "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," explains Jan B. about Quechee State Park.

Seasonal operations: Most state parks in the region operate from mid-May through mid-October. "Coolidge is off the beaten path but well worth the wander! There are no water sites, it's on the side of a heavily wooded mountain with a few sites having amazing views!" shares Danielle S.

Reservation requirements: Book early for peak season, especially fall. "The campground is in a good location; it is right next to the road. We were at sight #3. We were able to walk to the gorge as well as to the Antique mall," says William P., noting that staff were "very friendly and accommodating."

Tips for camping with families

Dog friendly options: Most campgrounds near North Hartland Lake welcome pets. "Nice rustic, small all amenities park. Great place to explore Vermont, hundreds of things to do and see in the area," explains Larry B. about Quechee-Pine Valley KOA, a dog friendly campground near North Hartland Lake.

Playground access: Some campgrounds offer play equipment for children. At Rest N Nest Campground, guests enjoy "Swimming pond and pool. Small Playground. Pull through, back in, tent sites," according to Jen C. The traditional campground atmosphere appeals to families with children.

Ranger programs: Look for scheduled activities for children. "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)," reports Jen B. from her stay at Quechee State Park.

Water activities: Lakes and ponds provide safe swimming for children. "Located at the beach area is also lawn space for games, a volleyball court, a fantastic playground. There is a bathroom and changing room, ice for sale and a great snackbar," Hannah H. shares about Silver Lake State Park.

Tips from RVers

Size considerations: Many Vermont campgrounds have limited space for larger rigs. Coolidge State Park offers "both tent and lean to sites. Our site was a lean to, well constructed and in great shape," says Tim K., but notes the sites can be tight for larger vehicles.

Limited hookups: For those needing full hookups, private campgrounds may be better options. "We paid $57/night for our full hookup site which is pretty costly especially since we did not use any of the amenities. Most sites are gravel with gravel patios," explains Nancy W. about Quechee-Pine Valley KOA.

Dump stations: Most state parks provide dump stations even when they lack hookups. At Mount Ascutney, "Bathrooms are clean. The shower was clean and plenty of water pressure," reports Michael L., noting the basic but functional amenities that RVers need.

Level site challenges: Be prepared for uneven terrain. "They do sell ice and firewood at the check in station. Recommend site 11 or the BIRCH lean to as the 2 most spacious and/or secluded sites," advises Chris A. about Quechee State Park, suggesting specific sites better suited for parking RVs.