Ricker Pond

Overview

Ricker Pond State Park offers a serene escape within the expansive Groton State Forest. Established in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps, this park beautifully balances historic charm with untouched natural beauty. It is centered around the tranquil 50-acre Ricker Pond, providing a peaceful environment for campers who prefer the sounds of loons and rustling leaves over the hum of a busy resort. The atmosphere is authentically Vermont, offering a slow-paced retreat for those looking to unplug and reconnect with the outdoors.

Location & Surroundings

Situated in the heart of Groton State Forest, the park is a key part of one of Vermont’s largest contiguous land tracts. Located near the towns of Groton and Marshfield, the park is surrounded by a dense forest of hardwoods and evergreens. The landscape is punctuated by the Montpelier and Wells River Rail Trail, which passes directly through the park, offering a flat and scenic corridor for exploring the rugged, granite-filled terrain and peaceful marshlands of the Northeast Kingdom.

Amenities & Park Features

The campground provides 26 tent/RV sites alongside 23 rustic lean-tos, with several sites offering prime waterfront views. While the park does not offer electric or water hookups, it is well-equipped with the following essential facilities:

• A sanitary dump station and potable water spigots.
• Restrooms with coin-operated hot showers.
• A boat launch and rental station for kayaks and canoes.
• A swimming beach and grassy picnic area.

These features ensure a comfortable stay for those prepared for dry camping in a majestic natural setting.

Nearby Attractions & Things to Do

Guests can explore a variety of outdoor activities, from fishing for trout to hiking the nearby Owl’s Head Trail for panoramic views of the forest canopy. The park’s location on the Cross Vermont Trail makes it a premier destination for mountain biking and long-distance trekking. Additionally, the nearby Boulder Beach State Park offers a larger sandy shore and play areas, while the Seyon Lodge State Park provides world-class fly fishing opportunities just a short drive away from your campsite.

Who This Park Is Best For

This destination is best suited for adventure-seeking RVers who enjoy a rustic, boondocking-style experience in a lush forest setting. It is an excellent choice for kayakers and anglers who want immediate access to calm waters from their site. Because many sites are tucked into the woods, it is most ideal for small-to-midsize RVs and campervans rather than large luxury rigs. Families who love traditional outdoor activities like campfire cooking and stargazing will find Ricker Pond to be a quintessential Vermont getaway.