New Discovery State Park Campground stands out as a premier equestrian camping destination in Vermont's Groton State Forest, located approximately 30 miles from Monroe, New Hampshire. The campground sits at an elevation of around 1,400 feet, offering a cooler summer climate than surrounding lowlands. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing, with campground operations ceasing after Columbus Day weekend until the following spring.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: Equestrian campers at New Discovery State Park Campground can access the rail trail that passes near the campground. "Awesome state park. Right along a long rail trail where you can put in many miles and not even know it. Swimming and boating is a short ride in a couple different directions, Osmore pond, Kettle pond, or Ricker pond," notes Rick S.
Swimming access: During summer months, water activities provide relief from hiking and riding. A visitor reported, "The lake was gorgeous to swim in and had different rafts and stuff in the water for public use." Water temperatures typically reach the mid-60s by late June.
Winter exploration: For cold-weather enthusiasts, Hancock Campground offers year-round access. "Stayed here for two nights in late December. Site #40 along the river was close to the bathroom yet had plenty of privacy from other sites," shares Heather B., highlighting winter camping options within a 30-minute drive of Monroe.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many visitors appreciate the thoughtful site layout at equestrian campgrounds near Monroe. "The sites are well separated and private. The grounds are beautiful and well situated to enjoy Groton State Forest," explains Robin B. about New Discovery State Park.
Water proximity: Sites near water features are consistently rated highest. "We had the most perfect spot in a private site on osmore pond that was accessible only by canoe! quiet, serene, beautiful!" enthuses Sambath T., describing the remote options at Groton Forest Road Campground.
Bear safety amenities: Campers appreciate provided bear boxes in areas with active wildlife. One camper noted, "We appreciated having a bear box on our site, especially since we couldn't keep anything in our car. It was big enough to fit our grill, cooler, trash, and bag of groceries."
What you should know
Bathroom maintenance issues: Some campgrounds struggle with facility upkeep during busy periods. "My complaint is in regards to the maintenance of the facilities. The Women's bathroom ran out of toilet paper and was never replaced. More upsetting was that the soap container was empty all weekend," reports Robin B.
Water access challenges: For RV campers, filling tanks can require adaptations. "The spigots for the water are not threaded. We tried our water bandit, with messy wet results. Luckily, we found we could unscrew the head of the hose at the dump station and had no problem filling our tank with potable water," shares Laura M.
Insect considerations: Depending on season and location, bees can impact camping experience at some sites. A camper at Hancock Campground reported, "Our site was completely swarmed with bees. We checked a few vacant sites to see if maybe it was just our site, but we found them all around, including all over the cars in the lot."
Tips for camping with families
Lean-to options: Family campers should consider the shelter structures available at some campgrounds. "The lean-to sites are really cool, and if I was tent camping I think they'd be so fun to sleep in," suggests Laura M., noting these can provide extra weather protection for families.
Site selection strategy: Families should research site layouts carefully before booking. "There are sites with electric hookups as well as some without. Some sites are in the middle of a grassy field while others are tucked in the trees. Site size various pretty vastly as you travel through the campground," explains Sarah C.
Engaging features: Some campgrounds offer unique attractions for children. One reviewer mentioned, "There's also a book exchange library and adorable little gnome habitats set up in the campground," providing entertainment beyond standard outdoor activities.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: RV campers should prepare for uneven terrain at some campgrounds. "Each site is so different and may or may not fit an RV. Some sites are so sloped I don't even know how a car would camp there," warns Laura M., highlighting the importance of researching site specifications before arrival.
Winter RV considerations: For cold weather camping, limited services are available. "Water would have earned it five stars," noted one winter camper, indicating that even campgrounds open year-round have reduced amenities during off-season months.
Electrical options: RV sites with hookups are limited but available near Monroe. "There are two loops of sites, some deep in the woods with great-looking trees, others in a field, and some in between," explains Miccal M., who drove through New Discovery State Park noting the variety of camping options.
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