New Discovery State Park Campground offers specialized equestrian camping facilities in Vermont's Groton State Forest. The campground features dedicated areas where horse owners can set up camp with their animals. Sites range from more open spaces to sheltered wooded areas with appropriate spacing between neighbors. The rail trail system connected to the campground provides extensive riding opportunities through forested terrain, with access to multiple ponds including Osmore, Kettle, and Ricker. Riders should be prepared for variable weather conditions and seasonal insect activity, particularly during early summer months.
What to do
Trail riding adventures: The extensive rail trail system at New Discovery State Park Campground connects riders to multiple destinations. According to one visitor, "we stayed at the Eagle leanto and is perfect for hanging multiple hammocks. Swimming and boating is a short ride in a couple different directions, Osmore pond, Kettle pond, or Ricker pond."
Explore nearby water features: Several ponds are accessible within the Groton State Forest area. A camper noted, "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."
Wildlife observation: Though sightings are uncommon, the forest harbors various wildlife. One camper mentioned, "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."
What campers like
Private pond access: For those seeking seclusion, Groton Forest Road Campground offers waterfront sites. A visitor shared, "The lake was gorgeous to swim in and had different rafts and stuff in the water for public use." The water amenities provide refreshing options during summer camping trips.
Well-maintained facilities: Despite occasional supply issues, the comfort stations receive regular attention. One camper observed, "The bathrooms were well maintained along with the showers." Another mentioned, "Park staff were attentive and restrooms were being cleaned with frequency."
Site variety and spaciousness: Campers appreciate the diverse site options. As noted by one visitor, "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."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Horse campgrounds near Rochester, Vermont typically operate from Memorial Day weekend through Columbus Day weekend. Most facilities close during winter months due to snowfall and freezing temperatures.
Facility limitations: At times, restroom supplies may run short during peak periods. One camper at Branbury State Park Campground advised, "Just make sure you put your food and trash away- there are black bears in the area!"
Reservation requirements: Many equestrian campsites require advance booking, especially during summer weekends. A camper noted, "Camp fees are $28/night, plus $5/day per adult for state park fees."
Bear safety protocols: Proper food storage is essential. "There are bears in the area though so please be bear smart when camping here," cautioned one visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Look for lean-to options: Lean-tos provide additional shelter for family groups. One visitor to Frontier Town Campground recommended, "The lean-to sites are really cool, and if I was tent camping I think they'd be so fun to sleep in."
Pack extra supplies: Bathroom facilities occasionally run out of essentials. A camper advised, "The Women's bathroom ran out of toilet paper and was never replaced. More upsetting was that the soap container was empty all weekend."
Consider site location: Site selection impacts the camping experience. One family mentioned, "We stayed in a wooded area surrounded by large rocks my daughter could climb on. The beach was nearby and included in the stay with horseshoes and a playground."
Tips from RVers
Water access challenges: RV campers should note water hookup limitations. One RVer explained, "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."
Site leveling considerations: Terrain varies significantly across equestrian campgrounds. A camper noted, "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."
Ranger
