New Discovery State Park Campground offers equestrian camping experiences with facilities designed specifically for horseback riders. The campground connects to an extensive network of trails within Groton State Forest, making it an ideal base for riders. Beyond the equestrian sites, the forest contains seven state parks within its 26,000 acres, encompassing several ponds, lakes, and mountains. Weather conditions can vary significantly with summer temperatures ranging from 45-85°F and frequent evening thunderstorms.
What to do
Explore Osmore Pond: Campers at New Discovery State Park Campground can access remote sites around Osmore Pond. "We had the most perfect spot in a private site on osmore pond that was accessible only by canoe! quiet, serene. beautiful! can't wait to go back!" noted Sambath T.
Hike forest trails: Multiple hiking paths start directly from camping areas. "There are hiking trails right from the campground, which we always appreciate. You can also go down to the water and rent a kayak or canoe from the rangers," reports Laura M.
Follow the rail trail: The campground provides access to converted rail trails for hiking and biking. "Awesome state park. Right along a long rail trail where you can put in many miles and not even know it," writes Rick S. about New Discovery.
Kayak nearby ponds: Groton Forest Road Campground offers lake access with swimming and boating options. "The lake was gorgeous to swim in and had different rafts and stuff in the water for public use," according to Reid B.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Most campers appreciate the secluded nature of sites at New Discovery. "The sites are well separated and private. The grounds are beautiful and well situated to enjoy Groton State Forest," mentions Robin B.
Wildlife watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife throughout the forest. "We saw fresh moose poop on a hike but sadly no moose or other wildlife. There are bears around the area though so please be bear smart when camping here," advises Laura M.
Diverse camping options: Branbury State Park Campground offers varied site types. "There are approximately 50 campsites split across two areas. One section is heavily wooded and the other is an open grassy area near the shore of Lake Dunmore," explains Trip Over Life.
Lean-to shelters: Several campgrounds feature rustic lean-to structures. "The lean-to sites are really cool, and if I was tent camping I think they'd be so fun to sleep in," says Laura M. about New Discovery.
What you should know
Bear safety practices: Food storage is critical when camping in this region. "They have food compost bins here, but the rangers keep forgetting to unlock the bin, so you just have to ask them," reports Laura M. at New Discovery.
Water access limitations: New Discovery has specific water protocols. "There is a dump station and drinking water on site, but the spigots for the water are not threaded. We tried our water bandit, with messy wet results," warns Laura M.
Site variations: Hancock Campground demonstrates how campgrounds in this region can have significantly different site layouts. "Some lovely spots by the water. We got site #19, which was one of the last sites available. It had a picnic table, fire pit, and bear box," states Tara S.
Limited showers: Most campgrounds have limited shower facilities with usage fees. "Showers are something like $1 for 8 minutes, quarters only," notes Laura M. about New Discovery facilities.
Tips for camping with families
Book early for specific sites: Families should reserve in advance, especially for more desirable accommodations. "Book early if you want to get a site with a lean-to!" advises Nicole E. about Branbury State Park Campground.
Pack for variable weather: Temperature fluctuations are common even in summer. "Even in august the nights get to a good sleeping temperature a vast majority of the time," shares Stephen T. about Branbury State Park.
Bring entertainment: Kids may enjoy the creative elements at New Discovery. "There's also a book exchange library and adorable little gnome habitats set up in the campground," mentions Laura M.
Consider site location: Some sites require more effort to access. "If bringing a full-sized cooler (or other large/luxury car camping items) be sure you are heading to a site closer to the parking area," recommends Sarah C. about the remote shelters at New Discovery.
Tips from RVers
Check site dimensions: New Discovery State Park Campground has varied terrain that affects RV camping. "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," cautions Laura M.
Know water fill options: RVers need to plan for water access limitations. "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. about New Discovery.
Consider site preferences: Some RVers prefer the open field sites. "There are two loops of sites, some deep in the woods with great-looking trees, others in a field, and some in between," notes Miccal M. after visiting New Discovery.
Legend
