Ricker Pond State Park Campground stands among several notable camping destinations within a 30-mile radius of Perkinsville, Vermont. Located in Groton State Forest at an elevation of approximately 1,200 feet, this region experiences warm summer days that typically cool to around 55°F at night. The camping season generally runs from late May through mid-October, with most campgrounds closing after the fall foliage peak.
What to do
Hiking off-site trails: Multiple trailheads connect to Ricker Pond State Park Campground, offering various difficulty levels. "This campground is easy to access... We had our trail bikes so took advantage of the Montpelier-Wells Rail Trail (Cross Vermont Trail), accessible directly from the campground," notes Emma B. from Ricker Pond State Park Campground.
Paddle exploration: The clear mountain lakes throughout the region provide excellent opportunities for kayaking and canoeing. "The pond is serene and a great place to swim, paddle, explore, and fish. If you paddle or swim to the other side of the camp ground, there is a huge rock with a rope swing," shares Hannah H. about Ricker Pond.
Historical site discoveries: Several nearby campgrounds offer access to historical ruins and foundations. "The best part of hiking trails in Groton State Forest is access to old foundations hidden on the trails that are fun to discover," explains a visitor at Little River State Park Campground.
What campers like
Quiet camping environment: Many sites offer a peaceful atmosphere away from crowds. "This is a pretty small State Park, so it fills up quickly. The sites on the pond are beautiful if you can get one! The campground has a small beach, boat launch and it's right on the Cross Vermont Trail," mentions Michele S. about Ricker Pond State Park Campground.
Lean-to shelters: Several state parks in the area offer these covered structures as alternatives to tent camping or yurt camping near Perkinsville, Vermont. "My favorite lean to site is directly on the water, private, and fills up fast. My favorite cabin site, is set back from the water, is private, and also fills fast for the season," shares Neena B. about Ricker Pond.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple water bodies around Perkinsville provide fishing access. "My friend and I took my son fishing and we landed some nice size fish big enough it scared my 7 year old son and he made me real it in. He was amazed and so proud to have hooked it himself," describes Chris H. from River Meadow Campground.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds in the region have limited or no connectivity. "There is absolutely no cell service for miles, so plan accordingly," warns Michele S. about Ricker Pond. Similarly, at Moose Hillock Camping Resort, "If you are in dire need of WiFi, it is nearly non-existent on the grounds, you can get it a little here & there in the pool area," according to Sara D.
Advanced reservations essential: Popular sites fill quickly, especially waterfront locations and specialty accommodations like yurts near Perkinsville. "Book in advance for the best availability!" advises Neena B. about Ricker Pond.
Quarter-operated showers: Many state parks require quarters for shower facilities. "Bathrooms are clean and take quarters. Wood and ice are able for purchase," explains Ashley L. at Ricker Pond.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Bringing entertainment for children helps during downtime. "The tent only loop is so private and perfect for kids biking and swimming. Nice pavilion and the pond was wonderful for canoes and kayaks," shares Rita M. about Ricker Pond.
Ranger programs: Check schedules for educational activities. "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)," mentions Jen B. from Quechee State Park Campground.
Multiple accommodation options: Many campgrounds offer various lodging styles from tent sites to yurt camping options around Perkinsville. "We stayed here in early August 2016 with friends and kids. The tent only loop is so private and perfect for kids biking and swimming," reports Rita M. about Ricker Pond.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Full-service sites are scarce in state parks. "My only disappointment with the camp is that there are only a few sites with sewer hookup. However, the dumping station is conveniently located, so if you have a small tank, daily trips are not a problem," advises Dennis M. from Littleton/Franconia Notch KOA Holiday.
Site selection guidance: When booking, consider terrain challenges. "Sites are relatively close to one another but have a decent amount of vegetation between them to create a little more separation," notes Sarah C. about Big Deer State Park.
Seasonal access: Most RV-friendly campgrounds in the region operate from mid-May through mid-October. "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," explains Jan B. about Quechee State Park.