New Discovery State Park Campground provides dedicated equestrian camping facilities within Vermont's scenic Groton State Forest. The park features sites with horse stalls specifically designed for riders traveling with their equine companions. Located about 20 miles east of Northfield, Vermont, the campground sits at approximately 1,200 feet elevation and experiences cooler summer temperatures than surrounding lowland areas. Winter snowfall often exceeds 100 inches annually, contributing to the lush forest environment.
What to Do
Trail riding access: New Discovery State Park connects directly to extensive bridle paths throughout Groton State Forest. According to a recent visitor, "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" (M.A.D. P., Branbury State Park Campground).
Water activities: Multiple ponds offer swimming and boating within short riding distance. "Across the street from the campground was access to the lake with plenty of grassy areas to hang out. And beautiful sunsets at night! A five minute hike- though it is quite a rocky, boulder-y hike- from the sites leads to a small river and swimming hole" (Nicole E., Branbury State Park Campground).
Mountain biking: The area features multi-use trails suitable for both horses and bikes. One reviewer noted: "The campground is within minutes of Ausable Chasm, which offers great hiking trails and rafting/tubing. We had a great time on this camping trip!" (Heather M., AuSable Chasm Campground).
What Campers Like
Spacious sites: Horse campers appreciate the generous site dimensions. "I couldn't believe how large the lots were. While they aren't super far from one another, they are large enough that they seem further than they are. Nice beautiful wooded area, we were able to put a tent and hang a hammock for sleeping" (Catherine M., Branbury State Park Campground).
Natural surroundings: The forest setting creates a peaceful atmosphere. A visitor noted: "Upon arrival, the front desk clerk was very nice and helpful. We found our way to the tent sites, nestled in the very back corner which for us was exactly what we like. Sites were a medium distance apart but still spacious enough to not be close to neighbors" (Levi M., AuSable Chasm Campground).
Rail trail access: The nearby converted railroad grade offers excellent riding opportunities. "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, Osmore pond, Kettle pond, or Ricker pond" (Rick S., New Discovery State Park Campground).
What You Should Know
Bathroom facilities: Some campgrounds have limited shower facilities. "Showers and restrooms were nearby and it being a weekday, there really wasn't much traffic of campers or hikers. It was cozy and tucked into the woods with town only being a few miles away!" (Levi M., AuSable Chasm Campground).
Weather considerations: Be prepared for variable conditions when equestrian camping near Northfield. "I've been here dozens of times, grew up going here every year and hiking rattlesnake. We make the trip from RI. Love to lake access, secluded camping, the hiking and remote area. Planning on revisiting next summer, even in august the nights get to a good sleeping temperature a vast majority of the time" (Stephen T., Branbury State Park Campground).
Wildlife awareness: Bears are present in the area, requiring proper food storage. "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. 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" (Laura M., New Discovery State Park Campground).
Tips for Camping with Families
Kid-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds offer playgrounds and swimming areas. "Spacious sites, hiking trails, biking trails, nice beach and grounds. Fishing, kayak, canoe, paddle boat and paddle board rentals. Theres a nature center with all kinds of information and activities. A large playground. Volleyball and horseshoe pits" (J L., Branbury State Park Campground).
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children can observe local wildlife safely. "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" (Rick S., New Discovery State Park Campground).
Educational programs: Look for nature centers with activities for children. "The day use section has a wonderful beach with a swimming area and boat launch. Large trees provide shade on a grassy lawn, and grills are available. The concession stand is open during day use hours" (Lisa S., Branbury State Park Campground).
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose sites carefully when bringing horses and RVs together. "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. Site size various pretty vastly as you travel through the campground" (Sarah C., New Discovery State Park Campground).
Filling water tanks: Some campgrounds have non-standard water connections. "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" (Laura M., New Discovery State Park Campground).
Road conditions: Access roads to equestrian camping areas may be challenging. "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. The lake was gorgeous to swim in and had different rafts and stuff in the water for public use" (Reid B., Groton Forest Road Campground).
Legend
