Glamping options near West Hartford, Vermont extend beyond the well-known establishments to include several diverse accommodations. Located in the Upper Valley region along the Vermont-New Hampshire border at approximately 700 feet elevation, this area experiences classic New England seasonal variations with warm summers and cold, snowy winters. The camping season typically runs from mid-May through mid-October, with most campgrounds closing before the first heavy snowfall.
What to do
Hiking accessibility: Quechee State Park Campground offers trails directly from the camping area. "The park is in a good location... We were able to walk to the gorge as well as to the Antique mall. The staff was very friendly and accommodating with us," notes William P.
Water activities: Ricker Pond State Park Campground provides peaceful paddling opportunities on a motor-restricted pond. According to a visitor: "A quiet camp ground on Ricker Pond, a motor free pond, is a wonderful place to spend the weekend. The pond is serene and a great place to swim, paddle, explore, and fish."
Local attractions: Sites within a 30-minute drive include breweries, maple syrup producers, and covered bridges. "Right down the road is the famous Quechee Gorge which is breathtaking any time of the year," shares Donna C. from Quechee-Pine Valley KOA.
Seasonal recreation: Fall foliage viewing peaks from late September through mid-October, with hiking trails offering the best vantage points. In summer, swimming spots at river-adjacent sites provide cooling options. "There is a fenced dog park which was a fairly good size and our lab was happy to chase a ball," notes a camper at Quechee-Pine Valley KOA.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Sites at Gifford Woods State Park Campground offer varying degrees of seclusion. "Upper Loop sites are spaced further apart. Wooded. AT goes right through the campground," explains Rachel C.
Natural setting: Many campsites maintain mature trees and natural terrain. "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," reports Jan B. from Quechee State Park.
Cleanliness standards: Bathroom facilities receive regular maintenance at most area campgrounds. A visitor at Baker River Campground shared: "I only stayed for one night but it was clean and the staff were friendly. Some sites are more private than others but overall quiet, and in a beautiful spot right next to the river."
River access: Several campgrounds feature direct water access for swimming or fishing. "We had a site right on the river and the view was amazing. The sites are pretty well spaced apart and well kept. The bathrooms were decently clean and the showers did not need quarters," notes Kayleen C. about Pine Haven.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Book several months in advance for premium sites, especially during peak season. "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)," advises Neena B.
Road noise: Some campgrounds experience traffic sounds due to proximity to main roads. "The campground is not too far off route 4 and you may hear cars/trucks," warns a reviewer at Quechee State Park.
Limited connectivity: Cell reception varies significantly by location. "There is absolutely no cell service for miles, so plan accordingly," notes Michele S. about Ricker Pond State Park.
Shower facilities: Many state parks have coin-operated showers requiring quarters. "Bathrooms are clean and take quarters. Wood and ice are able for purchase," reports Ashley L. about Ricker Pond.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Look for campgrounds with scheduled programs for children. One visitor at Moose Hillock Camping Resort shared: "Pros: lots to do, family oriented, friendly staff, awesome pool with a pirate ship that has 2 slides, night swimming, entertainment on some nights, big sites, fishing, camp store with decent prices."
Site selection: Choose sites away from high-traffic areas for younger children. "We thought we would be able to see the mountain area from this campground, though it wasn't close enough. Our cell service was completely gone here, and it felt like we were in the middle of nowhere," cautions Laura L. about Pine Haven.
Water safety: For families with water-loving children, select sites with gradual water access. At Ricker Pond, "If you paddle or swim to the other side of the camp ground, there is a huge rock with a rope swing," mentions Hannah H.
Equipment preparation: Bring extra tarps and rain gear regardless of forecast, as mountain weather can change rapidly. "It's a nice field for kids to play in, and clean washrooms. The campsites are all wooded. Some are private, while others are a little crowded together," notes a Quechee State Park visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many Vermont campgrounds have uneven terrain requiring additional leveling equipment. A Caton Place Campground visitor noted: "Camped here Labor Day Weekend in our 40 ft 5th wheel. We had a pull thru site. Easy to drive into the campground and into the site. We had no issues at all."
Hookup availability: Full hookups are limited in state parks, so arrive with filled tanks. "They have campgrounds for all types of camping and they have Cabins for people who act like they enjoy camping but would rather be in a cabin then on the ground," explains a visitor at Quechee-Pine Valley KOA.
Length restrictions: Check site limitations before booking, as many Vermont campgrounds cannot accommodate larger rigs. "Our site, was located in the back of the park in a quieter section because it was away from most of the activities and park entrance," reports a camper describing their 45-foot RV experience at Quechee-Pine Valley KOA.
