Ricker Pond State Park

Ricker Pond State Park, established in the 1930’s, is located on the western shores of Ricker Pond and adjacent to the Montpelier-Wells Rail Trail (Cross Vermont Trail).

As early as 1704, Native Americans and the French were using routes through Groton to reach Canada and Massachusetts. Colonists settled this area of Vermont slightly earlier than the rest of the state through the accessible network of waterways.

The rocky, tree covered hillsides were originally cloaked with white pine, spruce, hemlock, beech, maple and birch. These were logged by local farmers for lumber, fuel and potash. The logging industry was large-scale for almost 100 years while the railroad was operating. Today, logging is still a vital industry in the area, but has lost some of its dominance in favor of modern society’s leisure time movement - private cottages/seasonal homes and a variety of outdoor recreation activities.

Groton State Forest, with over 26,000 acres, is the second largest landholding administered by the Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation. It contains over 17 miles of hiking trails and over 20 miles of gravel roads and multi-use trails suitable for mountain biking and horseback riding.

Facilities / Amenities

The campground has 26 tent/RV sites, 23 lean-tos, 5 cabins and 2 cottages available to rent. Two of the three campground restrooms include coin-operated hot showers. A sanitary dump station is available, but there are no hookups. There is also a swimming beach, boat launch, shelter, and access to miles of hiking trails.

Both the original cottage and the Perry Merrill Cottage are located on the waterfront. Both cottages sleep 4 people and both come with canoes on site.

ACTIVITIES

Camping: There are 26 tent/RV sites and 23 lean-to sites available to rent at the park. There are also 5 cabins and 2 cottages.
Hiking: Groton State Forest contains over 17 miles of hiking trails.
Swimming: Ricker Pond has great swimming. There is a designated swimming area and a small, sandy beach.
Boating: Boats are welcome at the park. There is a boat launch, and the park rents out canoes, kayaks and a row boat.
Fishing: Perch, pickerel and bullhead are among some of the species swimming in Ricker Pond. This park also participates in the Reel Fun Program.
Nature Programs: There is a nature center with programs serving the parks in the Groton State Forest.
Mountain Biking: Groton State Forest has miles of multi-use trails great for mountain biking.