New Discovery State Park Campground provides specialized facilities for equestrian camping within Groton State Forest. The campground features sites with horse stalls adjacent to camping areas, allowing campers to keep their horses nearby during overnight stays. This equestrian-friendly campground operates seasonally from late May through mid-October, with campsites strategically positioned for trail access. The terrain consists of mixed hardwood forest with some open field areas, creating varied camping environments.
What to do
Trail riding access: New Discovery State Park connects directly to an extensive network of bridle paths throughout Groton State Forest. "Awesome state park. Right along a long rail trail where you can put in many miles and not even know it," notes Rick S. about New Discovery State Park Campground. The rail trail system allows for extended rides without backtracking.
Swimming opportunities: Several ponds near the equestrian campsites provide water recreation after a day of riding. "Swimming and boating is a short ride in a couple different directions, Osmore pond, Kettle pond, or Ricker pond," shares a New Discovery visitor. The ponds offer natural swimming areas without lifeguards.
Hiking combinations: Trails accommodate both hikers and horses, with some designated hiking-only paths. A visitor at Groton Forest Road Campground mentions it's "Great for Campers and tenters. Good fishing and plenty of hiking." Many trails feature moderate grades suitable for all experience levels.
What campers like
Varied site options: The equestrian camping area features different site configurations to accommodate various preferences. "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," reports Sarah C. about her stay at New Discovery.
Private horse camping: The equestrian sites offer good separation between neighboring campers. "The sites are well separated and private. The grounds are beautiful and well situated to enjoy Groton State Forest," notes Robin B. This layout allows horses to remain calmer with adequate space between camping neighbors.
Remote camping potential: For those seeking more seclusion while horse camping near Eden Mills, AuSable Chasm Campground provides additional options. "Sites were a medium distance apart but still spacious enough to not be close to neighbors... It was cozy and tucked into the woods with town only being a few miles away!" explains Levi M.
What you should know
Bathroom maintenance varies: Facility upkeep can be inconsistent during busy periods at horse campgrounds. "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 about New Discovery. Plan accordingly by bringing your own supplies.
Water access challenges: While potable water is available, connecting to it requires 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," explains Laura M.
Shower requirements: Coin-operated showers require quarters for operation. "Showers are something like $1 for 8 minutes, quarters only," notes a camper. Some facilities lack adequate lighting for nighttime use.
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife observation opportunities: The forest around equestrian campsites offers chances to spot local 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. from New Discovery State Park Campground.
Camping shelter options: For families mixing horse camping with non-equestrian members, various accommodation types exist. "The lean-to sites are really cool, and if I was tent camping I think they'd be so fun to sleep in," shares a camper. These structures provide partial protection from elements while maintaining an outdoor experience.
Campground amenities: Some locations offer unexpected extras for family enjoyment. "They have a book exchange library and adorable little gnome habitats set up in the campground," notes a visitor. These features add entertainment value beyond standard horse camping activities.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Horse camping areas often have natural terrain variations. "Some sites are so sloped I don't even know how a car would camp there," observes Laura M. Bringing additional leveling blocks helps address this issue when camping with horses and RVs together.
Field site considerations: Open sites provide easy horse observation but less privacy. "Some sites are out in the open grass where you just find a spot within the site that works for you," notes a camper at New Discovery State Park Campground. These areas offer better visibility for monitoring horses but increased exposure to elements.
Seasonal considerations: Road conditions affect RV access to horse camping areas. The dirt access roads can become rutted during wet periods, requiring careful navigation. Camping earlier in the season generally provides better road conditions before summer rain impacts.
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