New Discovery State Park Campground provides one of the few equestrian camping options in northern Vermont. Located within Groton State Forest, the campground features 51 sites including special accommodations for horses and riders. The campground operates seasonally from Memorial Day weekend through Columbus Day weekend. Campers have access to coin-operated showers, drinking water, and trash disposal facilities throughout their stay. Site rates are $28 per night plus a $5 daily fee per adult.
What to do
Trail riding access: Equestrians at New Discovery State Park Campground can access multiple riding trails directly from the campground. "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," notes Laura M. about the practical amenities riders should know about.
Rail trail exploration: The abandoned rail corridor near Groton Forest Road Campground offers miles of level riding terrain. "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," shares Rick S. about the extensive trail system.
Paddle multiple ponds: Rent canoes or kayaks from park rangers to explore Osmore Pond, Kettle Pond, and Ricker Pond. "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," notes Laura M. about the water access options available to visitors.
What campers like
Varied campsite options: Sites range from open field locations to deeply wooded settings with differing levels of privacy. "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," Sarah C. explains about the diverse site options.
Remote pond shelters: AuSable Chasm Campground offers unique camping experiences with water proximity. "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!" shares Sambath T. about the secluded water-access sites.
Multiple recreation options: Horse campgrounds near Eden, Vermont provide diverse activities beyond riding. "Upon arrival, the front desk clerk was very nice and helpful. We found our way to the tent sites, nestled in the very back corner which for us was exactly what we like," says Levi M. about the tent camping experience.
What you should know
Bathroom maintenance issues: Facilities are sometimes inadequately stocked 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," Robin B. reports from a recent stay.
RV site challenges: Many sites have terrain limitations that affect large vehicle placement. "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. about selecting appropriate sites for vehicles.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity is spotty throughout the equestrian campgrounds near Eden, Vermont. "Not much cell service, but some in places," notes Miccal M. during a visit to the area, making it important to plan communications accordingly.
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife watching opportunities: Bears and moose inhabit the area around New Discovery State Park Campground. "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. about wildlife safety and viewing.
Kid-friendly campground features: Look for family amenities that enhance the camping experience. "They have a small store and rec room for kids. I think they are making improvements always," Susan S. mentions about facilities that cater to younger campers.
Playground and pool access: Some campgrounds offer recreational facilities specifically for children. "Pretty decent campground with lots of sites and close by to some fun attractions," says Tammy W. about the family-friendly amenities available.
Tips from RVers
Water hookup adaptability: Bring multiple connection options for filling RV tanks. "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 solving water connection challenges.
Site selection considerations: Research specific site dimensions before booking for larger RVs. "The road through the campground is dirt and rutted but the speed limit is 5 mph, so it wasn't that bad, but it would be a mess if it was raining," warns Lee D. about navigating campground roads in larger vehicles.
Seasonal considerations: Equestrian campgrounds in the Eden, Vermont area typically close by mid-October. "This camp ground is a short drive to Lake Placid, Plattsburgh, Vermont State and so much more," notes Susan S. about the regional access advantages of staying at these campgrounds.