New Discovery State Park Campground offers equestrian trails and dedicated facilities within Vermont's extensive Groton State Forest system. The park maintains multiple camping loops with varying levels of privacy and accommodations specifically designed for horse owners. While the main campground operates from late May through mid-October, trail access may be limited by seasonal conditions including mud season in spring and snow coverage in winter.
What to do
Rail trail riding: The extensive rail trail near New Discovery State Park Campground provides miles of relatively flat terrain suitable for horses of varying experience levels. "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, Osmore pond, Kettle pond, or Ricker pond," notes Rick S.
Trail exploration: Multiple water bodies are accessible from the campground via designated horse trails. Riders should plan 30-60 minute trips to reach different ponds throughout the forest. "The campground's water access includes nearby Osmore Pond where horses can be watered," states one visitor report.
Swimming opportunities: After a day of riding, campers can cool off at several nearby swimming areas. "You can also go down to the water and rent a kayak or canoe from the rangers," mentions Laura M., highlighting additional water recreation options within Groton State Forest.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: The spacious layout of Groton Forest Road Campground receives positive feedback for its site separation. "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," reports Reid B., noting the balance between community and solitude.
Diverse site options: Sites vary significantly across the equestrian camping area. "This state park has a little bit of everything. There are sites with electric hookups as well as some without. Some sites are in the middle of a grassy field while others are tucked in the trees," explains Sarah C., highlighting the range of camping environments available within a single destination.
Forest access: The immediate proximity to extensive trail networks ranks highly among visitor priorities. "Awesome state park. Right along a long rail trail where you can put in many miles and not even know it," reports one camper, appreciating the seamless transition from campsite to trail system.
What you should know
Facility maintenance: Bathroom and shower facilities receive mixed reviews regarding upkeep. "The Women's bathroom ran out of toilet paper and was never replaced. More upsetting was that the soap container was empty all weekend," reports Robin B. about their experience at Branbury State Park Campground, highlighting the importance of bringing personal supplies.
Water access considerations: The campground water systems may present challenges for some equipment. "The spigots for the water are not threaded. We tried our water bandit, with messy wet results," explains Laura M., suggesting campers should plan accordingly for filling tanks.
Wildlife precautions: Bears are active in the surrounding forest. "There are bears around the area though so please be bear smart when camping here," warns one visitor, reinforcing the need for proper food storage and waste management during your equestrian camping experience.
Tips for camping with families
Book early: Secure reservations well in advance for AuSable Chasm Campground or other popular equestrian campgrounds near Montpelier, particularly for holiday weekends. "Upon arrival at Ausable Chasm, we were told we had to take a site with water and electric since we had a camper van. These sites were $13 more per night," notes Lee D., highlighting the importance of understanding site requirements.
Pack for variable weather: Vermont's mountain climate can shift quickly, with nights cooling significantly even during summer months. "Even in august the nights get to a good sleeping temperature a vast majority of the time," notes Stephen T., suggesting families should bring layers regardless of season.
Explore nearby amenities: Families benefit from regional attractions within short driving distances. "This camp ground is a short drive to Lake Placid, Plattsburgh, Vermont State and so much more," reports Susan S., pointing out opportunities to extend your equestrian vacation beyond the immediate campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: RV sites vary dramatically in levelness and accessibility. "RV site 8 is so out of level that we couldn't get our Airstream level unless we put 10" of blocking under both axles," cautions Brian P. about one campground, emphasizing the importance of researching specific sites before booking.
Road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds may present challenges. "The road through the campground is dirt and rutted but the speed limit is 5 mph, so it wasn't that bad, but it would be a mess if it was raining," observes one RVer, suggesting larger rigs should consider weather forecasts when planning arrival and departure dates.
Utility connections: While equestrian sites typically accommodate larger vehicles, hookup availability varies between campgrounds. "There is a dump station and drinking water on site, but the spigots for the water are not threaded," notes one camper, suggesting RVers should prepare alternative water filling solutions.
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