New Discovery State Park Campground offers specialized equestrian facilities within Groton State Forest. The campground features dedicated horse stalls at designated equestrian sites, rare among Vermont camping options. Located at 4,239 ft elevation, the area experiences cool summer nights even when daytime temperatures reach the 80s. Proper preparation for temperature fluctuations ensures comfortable overnight stays.
What to do
Trail riding on rail trails: Access miles of relatively flat terrain directly from New Discovery State Park Campground. "We stayed at the Eagle leanto and is perfect for hanging multiple hammocks. Right along a long rail trail where you can put in many miles and not even know it," notes Rick S.
Paddling multiple ponds: Explore the three nearby water bodies within short distance of camp. "You can also go down to the water and rent a kayak or canoe from the rangers," reports Laura M. Osmore, Kettle, and Ricker ponds all offer different paddling experiences within Groton State Forest.
Wildlife observation: The forest provides opportunities to spot native Vermont wildlife. "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.
What campers like
Private sites: Many campers appreciate the secluded nature of sites throughout Groton Forest Road Campground. "The spots were spacious with enough privacy between sites. The lake was gorgeous to swim in and had different rafts and stuff in the water for public use," notes Reid B.
Water access: Multiple swimming options exist within the state forest system. "Swimming and boating is a short ride in a couple different directions, Osmore pond, Kettle pond, or Ricker pond," according to Rick S., making this area ideal for those seeking water recreation during summer months.
Wilderness camping options: For those seeking more solitude. "We had the most perfect spot in a private site on osmore pond that was accessible only by canoe! quiet, serene. beautiful!" shares Sambath T. These remote sites require additional planning but offer increased privacy.
What you should know
Bear safety protocols: Proper food storage is essential in this region. "There are bears around the area though so please be bear smart when camping here," reminds Laura M. All food items should be stored in vehicles or bear-resistant containers, not in tents or open campsites.
Bathroom maintenance issues: Facility maintenance varies seasonally. "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 considerations: AuSable Chasm Campground visitors note water system limitations. "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," advises Laura M.
Tips for camping with families
Remote site planning: When choosing remote walk-in sites, consider equipment transportation distances. "If bringing a full-sized cooler or other large car camping items be sure you are heading to a site closer to the parking area. It would be a challenge to get larger, heavier items to sites across the pond from the parking lot," advises Sarah C.
Campground amenities: Groton Forest Road Campground offers recreational features for children. "The lake was gorgeous to swim in and had different rafts and stuff in the water for public use. The bathrooms were well maintained along with the showers," writes Reid B.
Lean-to options: Consider lean-to sites for family camping. "The lean-to sites are really cool, and if I was tent camping I think they'd be so fun to sleep in. They have food compost bins here, but the rangers keep forgetting to unlock the bin, so you just have to ask them," notes Laura M.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Choose RV sites carefully as terrain varies significantly. "Some sites are so sloped I don't even know how a car would camp there. Some sites are out in the open grass where you just find a spot within the site that works for you," explains Laura M.
Shower facilities: Bring quarters for pay showers when staying multiple nights. "Showers are something like $1 for 8 minutes, quarters only," notes Laura M. No change machines are available on-site, so arrive prepared with coins.
Parking configurations: Vehicle size limitations apply in certain areas. "We travel in a 17-foot camper van, but no one ever believes that we are no bigger than a standard cargo van and can easily fit in a regular size parking space," shares Lee D., highlighting potential confusion when booking appropriate sites.
Legend
