New Discovery State Park Campground sits at approximately 1,100 feet elevation within Vermont's northeastern forest region. The campground operates seasonally from late May through mid-October when temperatures range from 40°F nights to 75°F daytime highs. Most campsites receive dappled sunlight through the mixed hardwood canopy, with some field sites experiencing full sun exposure.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: New Discovery State Park offers horse-friendly camping with dedicated stalls at certain sites. "There are sites with stalls if you're into horses," notes Miccal M. about the New Discovery State Park Campground. The interconnected trail system provides both short loops and longer distance options.
Water activities: Multiple ponds within easy access provide swimming and paddling options. "You can also go down to the water and rent a kayak or canoe from the rangers," explains Laura M. The park maintains several water access points with sandy entry areas and floating platforms during summer months.
Winter recreation: Groton Forest Road Campground serves as a gateway to winter activities when snow conditions permit. "Great fishing and plenty of hiking," notes Chris H. about the Groton Forest Road Campground, which maintains access to some trails year-round. Cross-country skiing routes follow many of the same paths used for summer hiking.
What campers like
Pond access sites: Waterfront camping provides both convenience and scenic views. "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.
Lean-to shelters: The covered camping structures offer weather protection while maintaining the outdoor experience. "The lean-to sites are really cool, and if I was tent camping I think they'd be so fun to sleep in," shares Laura M. These structures feature wooden sleeping platforms raised approximately 8 inches off the ground.
Wildlife viewing: The surrounding forest supports diverse animal populations visitors can observe. "We saw fresh moose poop on a hike but sadly no moose or other wildlife. There are bears around the area though so please be bear smart when camping here," advises Laura M. from Groton Forest Road Campground.
What you should know
Site selection matters: Campsite characteristics vary significantly throughout the campground. "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," explains Sarah C. from New Discovery. Sites numbered 12-24 typically provide more separation and privacy.
Water filling challenges: RV owners should prepare for non-standard water connections. "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," shares Laura M.
Limited connectivity: Cell service ranges from minimal to nonexistent in most camping areas. "Not much cell service, but some in places," reports Miccal M. about New Discovery State Park Campground. The camp office maintains emergency communication equipment for urgent situations.
Tips for camping with families
Rustic shelter camping: The remote shelters provide a wilderness experience without requiring tent setup. "The shelters are rustic, have shared outhouses between a few sites, fire pits and small picnic tables. The remote sites are spaced nicely around the pond along a hiking trail that skirts the perimeter," describes Sarah C.
Equipment transport considerations: Plan for walking distances when booking remote sites. "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," advises Sarah C. from New Discovery State Park Campground.
Waterfront amenities: Swimming areas include structures for added enjoyment. "The lake was gorgeous to swim in and had different rafts and stuff in the water for public use," notes Reid B. about Groton Forest Road Campground. The swimming areas maintain seasonal monitoring for water quality.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup options: Some campgrounds in the region offer powered sites. "There are sites with electric hookups as well as some without," explains Sarah C. about New Discovery State Park. Electric sites typically provide 30-amp service suitable for smaller to mid-sized recreational vehicles.
Reservation importance: Advance booking is essential during peak periods. "Reservations are def a plus. Can be difficult to get into on the weekend," warns Saige V. about Groton Forest Road Campground. Horse-compatible sites near North Troy, Vermont fill particularly quickly during summer months and holiday weekends.
Legend
