New Discovery State Park Campground supports equestrian camping with dedicated horse facilities in Groton State Forest. The campground consists of two distinct loops with varying site configurations, from open field sites to wooded areas with greater privacy. Sites in the main camping areas include flush toilets and shower facilities, while remote sites around Osmore Pond offer a more primitive experience with access to outhouses. Water is available throughout the campground, though campers should note that spigots aren't threaded for hose connections.
What to do
Hiking on connected trail networks: New Discovery State Park Campground offers immediate trail access from the camping areas. "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," notes Laura M. The trails connect to the broader Groton State Forest network.
Winter camping options: Hancock Campground remains open year-round, providing cold-weather camping opportunities. "Stayed here for two nights in late December. Site #40 along the river was close to the bathroom yet had plenty of privacy from other sites," reports Heather B. Winter camping requires proper gear and preparation for freezing temperatures.
Boating and fishing: Multiple ponds within the region provide excellent water recreation. "We showed up on a busy Memorial Day weekend without reservations and the staff was kind enough to give us their last leanto. This place has access to some of the best hiking and paddling in the state," says M.A.D. P. about Branbury State Park Campground.
What campers like
Remote waterfront sites: Some campgrounds offer secluded sites accessible only by water. "We had the most perfect spot in a private site on osmore pond that was accessible only by canoe! Quiet, serene, beautiful!" writes Sambath T. about their stay at New Discovery State Park. These remote sites provide exceptional privacy for those willing to paddle.
Rail trail proximity: Access to extensive rail trails makes this area particularly appealing for cyclists and hikers seeking long, relatively flat routes. "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," notes Rick S. about New Discovery State Park.
Horse-friendly facilities: For equestrian camping near North Hartland Lake, select sites include stalls for horses. "This easy-to-access campground has made it on my list of places to stay... There are even sites with stalls if you're into horses," reports Miccal M. after visiting New Discovery State Park Campground, making it an excellent option for riders exploring the region.
What you should know
Bears in the region: Bears are active throughout the area, requiring proper food storage. "My family loves camping here. There are bears in the area, so be aware and store all food properly," advises Lisa S. about Tippicanoe Campground. Many sites provide bear boxes for secure food storage.
Site selection varies widely: Campgrounds in this region offer dramatically different site configurations. "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. Site size various pretty vastly as you travel through the campground," explains Sarah C. about New Discovery State Park.
Bathroom facilities: Quality and availability of restrooms vary by campground and season. "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 New Discovery State Park during peak season, highlighting the importance of bringing your own supplies.
Tips for camping with families
Beach and playground access: Branbury State Park Campground offers extensive recreational facilities for children. "Spacious sites, hiking trails, biking trails, nice beach with swimming area and boat launch. Large trees provide shade on a grassy lawn. The playground is large. Volleyball and horseshoe pits," notes J L. The park provides multiple activity options within walking distance of campsites.
Lean-to options: For families wanting a hybrid camping experience, lean-to structures offer additional shelter. "The lean-to sites are really cool, and if I was tent camping I think they'd be so fun to sleep in," says Laura M. about New Discovery State Park. These structures provide protection from rain while maintaining an outdoor experience.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The region supports diverse wildlife, offering educational opportunities for children. "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," shares Rick S. about his stay at New Discovery State Park.
Tips from RVers
Water fill considerations: Campers with RVs should note water access limitations at some parks. "There is a dump station and drinking water on site, but 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," advises Laura M. about her experience at Ramblewood Cabins and Campground.
Site leveling challenges: Many campsites in this mountainous region feature sloped terrain. "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," observes Laura M. at New Discovery State Park. RVers should bring leveling blocks and consider requesting specific sites when making reservations.
Campground layout considerations: Campground designs vary significantly across the region. "We have stayed here a few times and really enjoyed sites and hospitality! Spacious with views," notes Anne G. about Ramblewood Cabins and Campground, highlighting the importance of researching specific campgrounds for RV compatibility.
