New Discovery State Park Campground in Vermont features dedicated equestrian camping sites that connect directly to Groton State Forest's trail network. The campground sits at approximately 1,100 feet elevation within the forests of central Vermont, where summer temperatures typically range from 50-80°F. Horse owners can access multiple trail options directly from their campsites without needing to trailer their horses to different locations.
What to do
Trail riding access: The rail trail system near New Discovery State Park Campground provides extensive options for equestrian activities. According to one visitor, "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."
Swimming at multiple ponds: Riders can take their horses to several water access points within short distances. A camper noted that "You can also go down to the water and rent a kayak or canoe from the rangers," making it possible to combine horseback riding with water activities on the same day.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The forest surrounding the campground hosts various wildlife species. 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 sites with natural separation: At Branbury State Park Campground, campers appreciate the spacious layout. One visitor commented, "I couldn't believe how large the lots were. While they arent super far from one another, they are large enough that they seem further than they are."
Accessible water features: Many campgrounds in the Sharon region offer direct water access. A camper at Branbury State Park mentioned, "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."
Lean-to camping options: For those seeking unique shelter options during their equestrian camping trip, several parks offer covered structures. According to a visitor at Hancock Campground, "The lean-to sites are really cool, and if I was tent camping I think they'd be so fun to sleep in."
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Most equestrian camping facilities near Sharon operate on limited schedules. New Discovery State Park is open "Memorial Day weekend to Columbus Day weekend" with standard campsite fees of $28/night plus $5 daily state park fees per adult.
Variable bathroom facilities: Campground bathroom quality can differ significantly. One camper at Groton Forest Road Campground noted, "The bathrooms were well maintained along with the showers," while others reported maintenance issues during busy periods.
Wildlife precautions required: Bears are present throughout the region, requiring proper food storage. A camper advised, "They have food compost bins here, but the rangers keep forgetting to unlock the bin, so you just have to ask them."
Tips for camping with families
Playground and beach access: Families seeking equestrian camping near Sharon can find sites with additional recreational amenities. A visitor to Branbury State Park shared, "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."
Reservation timing: Secure your spot well in advance, especially for sites with horse facilities. According to a camper at Tippicanoe, "This campground is run by a very pleasant couple who take great pride in this property. Everything is immaculatefrom the bathrooms, shower, clubhouse, store and grounds so you can relax and know that the kids are safe."
Varied site selections: Choose carefully based on your specific needs. One camper at New Discovery observed, "There are two loops of sites, some deep in the woods with great-looking trees, others in a field, and some in between. There are even sites with stalls if you're into horses."
Tips from RVers
Water access considerations: RVers should note potential filling challenges at some locations. A camper at New Discovery State Park reported, "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."
Site selection for larger vehicles: Not all equestrian camping sites accommodate RVs equally. A visitor noted, "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."
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