New Discovery State Park Campground offers specialized equestrian accommodations near Hartford, Vermont. Located within the 26,000-acre Groton State Forest, this campground provides access to extensive trail networks with varied terrain suitable for riders of different experience levels. The park maintains separate horse-friendly camping areas that ensure proper spacing between animals while offering direct trail access.
What to do
Trail riding with elevation views: At Hancock Campground, riders access trails with significant elevation changes. "Great place to set up camp to get some 4Ks in the whites. Some lovely spots by the water. Open year round," notes Kim O., highlighting the year-round accessibility that's particularly valuable for equestrian campers.
Swimming with horses: Horse-friendly swimming areas allow riders to cool their mounts during summer months. "We had the most perfect spot in a private site on osmore pond that was accessible only by canoe! quiet, serene, beautiful!" reports Sambath T. about New Discovery State Park, where many riders take advantage of pond access points.
Winter trail riding: Cold weather trail riding options remain available for experienced equestrians. "Site #40 along the river was close to the bathroom yet had plenty of privacy from other sites. The campgrounds were well cared for and the staff was friendly," explains Heather B. about winter camping at Hancock Campground, where winter trails often accommodate both riders and snowshoers.
What campers like
Well-maintained horse facilities: Equestrian campers appreciate dedicated stall areas with proper drainage. "Awesome state park. Right along a long rail trail where you can put in many miles and not even know it," writes Rick S. about Groton Forest Road Campground, noting its convenient trail access for riders.
Spacious sites for trailers: Horse campers need extra room for trailers and tack storage. "Large campsites, clean amenities, nice dog park, great store with everything you need and located near like Winni," mentions Ryan P. about Gunstock Campground, which accommodates larger vehicles needed by equestrians.
Trail variety and connectivity: The network of interconnected trails allows for rides of varying lengths and difficulties. "Awesome state park. 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," Rick S. notes about New Discovery State Park, emphasizing the extensive trail system.
What you should know
Bear-aware camping required: All horse feed must be secured in bear-proof containers overnight. "We appreciated having a bear box on our site, especially since we couldn't keep anything in our car. It was big enough to fit our grill, cooler, trash, and bag of groceries," explains Lindsey M. about Hancock Campground, highlighting storage considerations relevant to horse campers.
Water access can be challenging: Some water sources aren't threaded for hose connections. "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," reports Laura M. about New Discovery State Park, noting a challenge for filling water troughs.
Seasonal limitations: "The Women's bathroom ran out of toilet paper and was never replaced. More upsetting was that the soap container was empty all weekend," mentions Robin B. about New Discovery State Park, indicating potential maintenance issues during peak seasons when facilities get heavy use from equestrian and standard campers alike.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly horse programs: Many horse campgrounds offer supervised riding activities for children. "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," explains Lisa S. about Branbury State Park Campground, which provides alternative activities when children need breaks from riding.
Safety precautions: Families should consider sites away from heavy horse traffic. "The site was so scenic with a little waterfall and stream nearby. The camp staff was so nice. They kept the the bathrooms and areas so clean," Nicole E. mentions about Branbury State Park, describing quieter areas suitable for families with young children.
Multi-activity options: Plan for non-riding activities when traveling with children who may tire of horseback activities. "We stayed in a wooded area surrounded by large rocks my daughter could climb on. The beach was nearby and included in the stay with horseshoes and a playground," says Desiree V. about Branbury State Park, highlighting complementary activities.
Tips from RVers
Horse trailer parking logistics: RVers with horse trailers need to consider specific campground layouts. "My girlfriend and I visited last year for a nice getaway and absolutely loved the park. The spots were spacious with enough privacy between sites," explains Reid B. about Tippicanoe Campground, which accommodates larger rigs.
Electric needs for horse campers: Equestrian campers often require electricity for water heaters and fans. "Clean Family Fun. This campground is run by a very pleasant couple who take great pride in this property. Everything is immaculate from the bathrooms, shower, clubhouse, store and grounds," notes David G. about Tippicanoe Campground, highlighting reliable facilities.
Site selection strategy: Choose sites that allow easy access for both living quarters and horse trailers. "We showed up on a busy Memorial Day weekend without reservations and the staff was kind enough to give us their last leanto," mentions M.A.D. P. about Branbury State Park, indicating staff flexibility that can benefit RVers with specialized horse camping needs.
