New Discovery State Park Campground features equestrian-specific amenities alongside traditional camping accommodations. The designated horse camping sites include stalls and access to multiple trail systems. Temperatures in the Middlesex region typically range from 30-80°F seasonally, with summer being the prime horse camping period. The surrounding Groton State Forest offers diverse terrain for riders of all experience levels.
What to do
Rail trail riding: Access the extensive rail trail system directly from New Discovery State Park Campground for long-distance riding. "Awesome state park. Right along a long rail trail where you can put in many miles and not even know it," notes Rick S., who appreciates the trail connections.
Swimming with horses: Take horses to designated water access points at multiple ponds. "Swimming and boating is a short ride in a couple different directions, Osmore pond, Kettle pond, or Ricker pond," according to campers who enjoy the water features with their equine companions.
Winter camping preparation: For those considering off-season visits to horse campgrounds near Middlesex, Vermont, bring appropriate cold-weather gear. Though most equestrian facilities close after Columbus Day weekend, some privately-owned properties remain open with limited services.
What campers like
Private sites: The spaciousness between campsites allows for comfortable horse camping. "The sites are well separated and private. The grounds are beautiful and well situated to enjoy Groton State Forest," explains Robin B., highlighting the campground layout.
Lean-to options: Branbury State Park Campground offers unique shelters that work well for horse campers. "The lean-to lots looked nice too if you're looking for coverage," notes Catherine M., who appreciated the versatility of these structures.
Natural environment: Horse-friendly camping areas maintain a natural setting while providing necessary amenities. A visitor observes, "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."
What you should know
Bear safety requirements: Proper food storage is mandatory when camping with horses. "There are bears around the area though so please be bear smart when camping here," warns Laura M., emphasizing the importance of securing both human food and horse feed.
Water access limitations: Spigots at Groton Forest Road Campground and similar facilities have specific configurations. "The spigots for the water are not threaded. We tried our water bandit, with messy wet results," reports one camper who found alternative solutions at the dump station.
Seasonal operation: Most equestrian campgrounds near Middlesex operate from Memorial Day through mid-October. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for sites with horse stalls, which are limited and fill quickly during summer weekends.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection strategy: Choose horse-friendly sites based on terrain and proximity to facilities. "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," advises a regular visitor to the area.
Bathroom facilities: AuSable Chasm Campground, though farther from Middlesex, offers insight on regional campground bathroom setups. "Bathrooms and shower rooms are individual rooms, but the doors are not labeled so it's a game of 'what's behind door number 1?'" notes Lee D., suggesting families check facilities upon arrival.
Educational opportunities: Incorporate educational elements when camping with horses and children. Many campgrounds offer nature programs, and as one visitor mentions, "There's a book exchange library and adorable little gnome habitats set up in the campground," providing additional activities beyond horseback riding.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: RV campers with horse trailers should research site dimensions carefully. Sarah C. points out, "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," helping RVers plan their approach.
Electrical connections: For RVers requiring hookups at horse campgrounds near Middlesex, options may be limited. Equestrian sites often prioritize horse facilities over RV connections, requiring generators or alternative power solutions for longer stays.
Legend
