New Discovery State Park Campground near Marshfield, Vermont sits at an elevation of approximately 1,100 feet in the northeastern part of Groton State Forest. The area features predominantly coniferous trees with rocky terrain, creating challenging access at certain tent sites. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing, while summer evenings cool significantly even after warm days.
What to do
Trail riding on horseback: At New Discovery State Park Campground, equestrians can access miles of connected trails throughout Groton State Forest. A camper noted, "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."
Swimming in Osmore Pond: Located within walking distance of most campsites, the pond offers refreshing swimming during summer months. One reviewer mentioned, "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!"
Explore the rail trail: The area connects to a converted railway path ideal for beginners or leisure riding. According to one visitor at Hancock Campground, "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."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many equestrian camping sites at New Discovery offer good separation from neighbors. One camper reported, "The sites are well separated and private. The grounds are beautiful and well situated to enjoy Groton State Forest."
Proximity to multiple ponds: The area features several accessible water bodies for both horses and humans. A visitor stated, "Swimming and boating is a short ride in a couple different directions, Osmore pond, Kettle pond, or Ricker pond."
Variety of site types: Groton Forest Road Campground offers diverse options for different camping preferences. As one camper explained, "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. The lake was gorgeous to swim in and had different rafts and stuff in the water for public use."
What you should know
Bathroom maintenance varies: Some campers report inconsistent upkeep of facilities at horse campgrounds near Marshfield. One reviewer noted, "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."
Water access limitations: At Branbury State Park Campground, water spigots require special adaptations. A camper advised, "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."
Bear activity: The region has active wildlife including bears. Store food properly at equestrian sites. A visitor warned, "There are bears around the area though so please be bear smart when camping here."
Tips for camping with families
Use lean-to sites: These structures provide additional shelter and versatility for family camping at equestrian campgrounds. One visitor remarked, "The lean-to sites are really cool, and if I was tent camping I think they'd be so fun to sleep in."
Check site terrain: New Discovery State Park has significant variation in site layout and accessibility. A camper observed, "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. Some sites are out in the open grass where you just find a spot within the site that works for you."
Consider walk-in distance: For sites near Osmore Pond, be prepared for carrying gear. As one reviewer advised, "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."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: While Groton Forest Road Campground offers electric and water hookups, options are limited at New Discovery for equestrians with RVs. Plan accordingly for electricity needs with horses.
Check site size carefully: Many equestrian sites can't accommodate larger rigs. One camper at New Discovery noted, "Site size various pretty vastly as you travel through the campground. There are two main loops, one is more secluded and spaced out than the other."
Consider seasonal timing: The best time for equestrian camping is mid-summer through early fall. The region experiences variable temperatures as one camper mentioned, "Even in august the nights get to a good sleeping temperature a vast majority of the time."
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