New Discovery State Park offers equestrian camping sites within Vermont's scenic Groton State Forest, about 44 miles northeast of Goshen. Horse campers can access stalls with water availability while standard tent and RV sites spread across two distinct camping loops. The park sits at approximately 1,100 feet elevation, making for cool summer nights even during July and August. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing, explaining the seasonal operation from late May through mid-October.
What to do
Trail riding through diverse terrain: Experienced riders can access miles of designated equestrian trails throughout Groton State Forest from Frontier Town Campground. "This is a great home base to explore from the Lake George region to Ticonderoga to day hikes or cycling. Both times the bathrooms and showers were immaculate. The staff does a fantastic job of maintenance," notes Charles K.
Swimming in natural settings: Multiple swimming opportunities exist within a short drive. "The day use section has a wonderful beach with a swimming area and boat launch. Large trees provide shade on a grassy lawn, and grills are available," reports Lisa S. about Branbury State Park, located approximately 25 miles west of Goshen.
Canoe camping: Access remote sites via water at several parks. "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. about the secluded water-access sites at New Discovery State Park.
What campers like
Spacious equestrian sites: Horse camping areas typically provide more room than standard sites. "We stayed in site 33 which is in the equestrian camping area. It's really open with little tree cover which is perfect for those who work remote using Starlink. The sites in the equestrian camping area are huge and so clean," explains Chelsea B. about her stay at Frontier Town.
Well-maintained facilities: Despite remote locations, most horse-friendly campgrounds maintain clean facilities. "The bathrooms are the cleanest I've seen so far and we do this full time," adds Chelsea B. about the facilities at equestrian camping areas.
Privacy between sites: Groton Forest Road Campground offers good separation between campsites. "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. The bathrooms were well maintained along with the showers," describes Reid B.
What you should know
Site variations: Campsite layouts differ substantially even within the same campground. "There are two loops of sites, some deep in the woods with great-looking trees, others in a field, and some in between. There are even sites with stalls if you're into horses," explains Miccal M. about New Discovery State Park Campground.
Seasonal considerations: All Vermont state parks operate seasonally, typically closing after Columbus Day weekend. "Camp fees are $28/night, plus $5/day per adult for state park fees," reports Laura M. about New Discovery State Park.
Water access limitations: RV campers should note limitations at water fill stations. "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
Beach amenities: Branbury State Park Campground provides family-friendly swimming. "Spacious sites, hiking trails, biking trails, nice beach and grounds. Fishing, kayak, canoe, paddle boat and paddle board rentals. Theres a nature center with all kinds of information and activities. A large playground. Volleyball and horseshoe pits," details J L.
Bear safety: Wildlife safety practices are essential with children. "There are bears around the area though so please be bear smart when camping here," cautions Laura M. about camping at New Discovery.
Varied camping options: Different accommodation types suit different family needs. "The lean-to sites are really cool, and if I was tent camping I think they'd be so fun to sleep in," suggests Laura M., noting these structures can be particularly appealing for families with young children.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Not all sites accommodate larger RVs. "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," warns Laura M. about the variable terrain at horse campgrounds.
Hookup availability: Full hookups can be limited at equestrian-focused campgrounds. "There is a dump station and drinking water on site, but the spigots for the water are not threaded," adds Laura M., highlighting infrastructure limitations.
Shower facilities: Pay showers are common at state parks. "Showers are something like $1 for 8 minutes, quarters only," notes Laura M., advising RVers to bring quarters for shower use at most equestrian camping locations near Goshen.
Ranger
