New Discovery State Park Campground sits within the 26,000-acre Groton State Forest near Orleans, Vermont, at an elevation of approximately 1,100 feet. The campground operates seasonally from Memorial Day weekend through Columbus Day weekend, closing during winter months when temperatures regularly drop below freezing. Equestrian camping in this region offers access to extensive trail systems designed specifically for horseback riding with designated sites equipped for both horses and riders.
What to do
Trail riding through multiple state parks: Riders can access several water features from New Discovery State Park Campground. According to one camper, "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).
Wildlife watching from camp: Observe natural animal behaviors from your site. "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).
Canoe-accessible camping: For a unique experience, consider remote sites. One visitor noted, "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!" (Sambath T., Groton Forest Road Campground).
What campers like
Private, well-spaced sites: The campground layout offers good separation between sites. One camper reports, "I camped at New Discovery this weekend, the sites are well separated and private. The grounds are beautiful and well situated to enjoy Groton State Forest" (Robin B., New Discovery State Park Campground).
Diverse site options: The campground offers variety in site placement and terrain. "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).
Remote lean-to options: For those seeking more seclusion, the park offers alternative structures. "The lean-to sites are really cool, and if I was tent camping I think they'd be so fun to sleep in" (Laura M., New Discovery State Park Campground).
What you should know
Facility maintenance issues: Some visitors have reported inconsistent maintenance. "My complaint is in regards to the maintenance of the facilities. The Women's bathroom ran out of toilet paper and was never replaced. More upsetting was that the soap container was empty all weekend" (Robin B., New Discovery State Park Campground).
Water access challenges: RVers may encounter difficulties with 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" (Laura M., New Discovery State Park Campground).
Reservation requirements: Securing a spot can be challenging without advance planning. "Reservations are def a plus. Can be difficult to get into on the weekend" (Saige V., Groton Forest Road Campground).
Tips for camping with families
Consider site location carefully: Not all sites are equally accessible. "The remote sites are spaced nicely around the pond along a hiking trail that skirts the perimeter. The walk from the parking area to the shelters varies, depending what side of the pond you are camping on" (Sarah C., New Discovery State Park Campground).
Pack appropriately for remote sites: Some locations require more planning. "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" (Sarah C., New Discovery State Park Campground).
Take advantage of on-site rentals: Water activities are available without bringing equipment. "You can also go down to the water and rent a kayak or canoe from the rangers" (Laura M., New Discovery State Park Campground).
Tips from RVers
Check site specifics before booking: Site terrain varies significantly. "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" (Laura M., New Discovery State Park Campground).
Plan for shower costs: Showers require coins. "Showers are something like $1 for 8 minutes, quarters only" (Laura M., New Discovery State Park Campground).
Be bear aware: Wildlife precautions are essential. "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).
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