New Discovery State Park Campground contains specialized equestrian sites in Groton State Forest, approximately 60 miles from Milton, Vermont. The campground provides dedicated horse stalls at select sites within its two camping loops. Sites cost $28 per night plus a $5 daily state park fee per adult, with varying site terrain from wooded areas to more open fields.
What to do
Trail riding access: The campground connects directly to miles of multi-use trails throughout Groton State Forest, with terrain suitable for novice to intermediate riders. According to a visitor at Groton Forest Road Campground, "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."
Pond exploration: Several ponds within riding distance offer scenic destinations and water access for horses. "Swimming and boating is a short ride in a couple different directions, Osmore pond, Kettle pond, or Ricker pond," notes a camper from New Discovery.
Rail trail excursions: The adjacent rail trail provides extended riding options without significant elevation challenges. A visitor shared, "Right along a long rail trail where you can put in many miles and not even know it."
What campers like
Private, well-separated sites: Campsites feature good spacing between neighbors, creating a sense of seclusion. A camper at New Discovery State Park Campground noted, "I camped at New Discovery this weekend, the sites are well separated and private. The grounds are beautiful and well situated to enjoy Groton State Forest."
Diverse site options: The campground offers a range of site types from field settings to densely wooded areas. One visitor observed, "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 horse."
Remote lakeside options: Beyond the main campground, primitive lean-to shelters around Osmore Pond provide a more secluded experience. A camper described, "we had the most perfect spot in a private site on osmore pond that was accessible only by canoe! quiet, serene. beautiful!"
What you should know
Facility maintenance varies: Bathroom and shower facilities can have inconsistent upkeep during busy periods. A camper reported, "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: While drinking water is available, the spigots lack standard threading for RV hookups. "The spigots for the water are not threaded. We tried our water bandit, with messy wet results," explained a visitor at AuSable Chasm Campground.
Wildlife precautions: Bears and other wildlife are active in the area, requiring proper food storage and waste disposal. A camper mentioned, "There are bears around the area though so please be bear smart when camping here."
Tips for camping with families
Playground and recreation: The campground features play areas and recreational facilities for children. A visitor shared, "They have a small store and rec room for kids. I think they are making improvements always."
Educational opportunities: Rangers often provide nature programs and educational activities during summer months. "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," noted one camper.
Lean-to alternatives: The lean-to shelters provide a fun alternative to traditional tent camping for families. "The lean-to sites are really cool, and if I was tent camping I think they'd be so fun to sleep in," a visitor remarked.
Tips from RVers
Site selection crucial: RV sites vary significantly in size, slope and accessibility throughout the campground. A camper at New Discovery 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."
Dump station details: The campground provides a dump station, but water connections require adaptation. "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," explained one RVer.
Reservation importance: Securing reservations well in advance is essential, particularly for equestrian sites or larger RVs. "Reservations are def a plus. Can be difficult to get into on the weekend," advised a visitor.
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