New Discovery State Park Campground in Marshfield serves as a central hub for equestrian campers in Vermont's northeast kingdom. The campground provides dedicated horse facilities within 8,700 acres of Groton State Forest at an elevation of approximately 1,100 feet. The forest contains over 26 miles of designated bridle paths and connects to multiple water bodies where horses can cool off during summer rides.
What to do
Trail riding access: New Discovery's location provides direct access to numerous riding paths. "The campground loops have bath houses, complete with coin operated showers. Park staff were attentive and restrooms were being cleaned with frequency," notes Sarah C. about New Discovery State Park Campground.
Water activities: Multiple ponds within riding distance offer swimming opportunities. As Miccal M. observed, "Easy access to a lake and a picnic pavilion. Noticed more than a few sites that I could hang at." The nearby Groton State Forest includes seven bodies of water.
Winter activities: While most horse campgrounds near Morristown, Vermont close for winter, the surrounding forest transforms for cold-weather recreation. According to Reid B. at Groton Forest Road Campground, "The lake was gorgeous to swim in and had different rafts and stuff in the water for public use."
What campers like
Private sites: Many campers appreciate the secluded nature of the campsites. "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!" shares Sambath T. about exploring beyond the main campground areas.
Natural surroundings: The forest setting creates an immersive experience. Rick S. notes, "There were squirrels that would spend lots of time throughout the day sending loose the green pine cones and then come down and chew them up. Pretty entertaining except for when they drop them on your tarps."
Trail network: Equestrian campgrounds in the Morristown region connect to extensive trail systems. Chris H. at Groton Forest Road Campground states, "Great for Campers and tenters. Good fishing and plenty of hiking."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: During peak season, securing a spot requires advance planning. "Reservations are def a plus. Can be difficult to get into on the weekend," advises Saige V. about AuSable Chasm Campground.
Water access limitations: While water is available, some spigots have specific configurations. Laura M. explains, "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."
Seasonal facilities: Most equestrian camping facilities near Morristown operate from late May through mid-October only. Bathroom maintenance can vary during busy periods, with Robin B. noting, "The Women's bathroom ran out of toilet paper and was never replaced. More upsetting was that the soap container was empty all weekend."
Tips for camping with families
Lean-to options: Families can utilize the lean-to structures for easier setup. "The lean-to sites are really cool, and if I was tent camping I think they'd be so fun to sleep in. They have food compost bins here, but the rangers keep forgetting to unlock the bin, so you just have to ask them," recommends Laura M.
Remote site considerations: Evaluate walk-in distances before booking. Sarah C. advises, "If bringing a full-sized cooler (or other large/luxury car camping items) be sure you are heading to a site closer to the parking area. It would be a challenge to get some of those larger, heavier items to sites across the pond from the parking lot."
Wildlife awareness: Teach children about proper food storage. "There are bears around the area though so please be bear smart when camping here," warns Laura M. about New Discovery State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many equestrian sites require significant leveling equipment. Miccal M. 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 horses."
Limited hookups: Horse camping areas typically offer minimal services. "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," notes Laura M.
Access road conditions: Some roads to horse campgrounds may be challenging. "Not much cell service, but some in places," mentions Miccal M., highlighting connectivity limitations that RVers should prepare for.
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