New Discovery State Park Campground in Marshfield, Vermont offers specialized sites for horse owners exploring Groton State Forest's extensive trail system. The campground's equestrian sites feature stalls for horses, making it a destination for riders traveling with their mounts. Located approximately 60 miles south of Derby Line near the Canadian border, the campground operates seasonally from Memorial Day weekend through Columbus Day weekend, with water access at Osmore Pond and connecting trails throughout the forest.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: Horse owners can access miles of forest trails directly from New Discovery State Park Campground. The campground is designed with equestrian needs in mind, with one visitor noting, "There are sites with stalls if you're into horses." The trail system connects to various natural features throughout Groton State Forest.
Water recreation access: Multiple ponds are available within short distances of the campgrounds. "You can also go down to the water and rent a kayak or canoe from the rangers," writes Laura M. The adjacent Osmore Pond offers paddling opportunities with remote campsites accessible only by water.
Hiking network: Extensive hiking trails connect throughout the forest and directly from the campground areas. As one camper explains, "There are hiking trails right from the campground, which we always appreciate," making it easy to explore without driving to trailheads.
What campers like
Private, well-spaced sites: New Discovery State Park Campground features varied camping areas from field sites to deeply wooded locations. One visitor noted, "The sites are well separated and private. The grounds are beautiful and well situated to enjoy Groton State Forest." Site selection is important as terrain varies significantly throughout the campground.
Wildlife viewing: The forest setting provides opportunities to observe local animals. "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., highlighting the importance of proper food storage.
Rustic lean-to options: For tent campers seeking shelter alternatives, the park offers 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," writes one reviewer. Another mentioned, "We stayed at the Eagle leanto and is perfect for hanging multiple hammocks."
What you should know
Bathroom and facility maintenance: Facilities receive mixed reviews regarding upkeep. One camper reported, "My complaint is in regards to the maintenance of the facilities. The Women's bathroom ran out of toilet paper and was never replaced." However, more recent reviews note, "Park staff were attentive and restrooms were being cleaned with frequency."
Water access limitations: While drinking water is available, RVers should note restrictions on connections. Laura M. explains at Groton Forest Road Campground, "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."
Remote sites require planning: Some campsites are distant from parking areas, particularly those near water. "The remote sites are spaced nicely around the pond along a hiking trail that skirts the perimeter. The walk from the parking area to the shelters varies, depending what side of the pond you are camping on," notes Sarah C., suggesting campers with heavy gear choose sites closer to parking.
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife entertainment: Small animals provide natural entertainment for children. One camper describes, "There were squirrels that would spend lots of time throughout the day sending loose the green pine cones and then come down and chew them up. Pretty entertaining except for when they drop them on your tarps."
Swimming options: Multiple swimming areas exist within short driving distances. Reid B. reports at Groton Forest Road Campground, "The lake was gorgeous to swim in and had different rafts and stuff in the water for public use," making it suitable for children of various swimming abilities.
Educational opportunities: The campgrounds feature nature-based learning elements. "There's also a book exchange library and adorable little gnome habitats set up in the campground," mentions Laura M., providing additional activities for young campers beyond standard outdoor recreation.
Tips from RVers
Site selection crucial: RV campers should research specific sites before booking. Sarah C. advises, "This state park has a little bit of everything. 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."
Terrain challenges: Some sites have significant grade issues that affect larger vehicles. "Some sites are so sloped I don't even know how a car would camp there," notes one reviewer, suggesting RVers check site descriptions carefully or call ahead for recommendations suitable for their rig size.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity is restricted throughout the area. Miccal M. observes, "Not much cell service, but some in places," suggesting campers should plan for limited communication and download maps or information before arrival.
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