New Discovery State Park Campground provides specialized equestrian facilities for riders camping with their horses. The campground contains several stalls where equestrians can keep their horses directly at their campsites. Located in Groton State Forest, the campground operates seasonally from late May through mid-October. Winter conditions make the area inaccessible during colder months, with temperatures regularly dropping below freezing from November through April.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: The rail trail system accessible from New Discovery State Park Campground offers extensive riding routes. "We stayed at the Eagle leanto and is perfect for hanging multiple hammocks. Close enough to the bathrooms too," notes Rick S. about the New Discovery State Park Campground.
Swimming with horses: Several ponds within riding distance provide water access. "Swimming and boating is a short ride in a couple different directions, Osmore pond, Kettle pond, or Ricker pond," mentions a camper who enjoyed the diverse water features near this horse-friendly campground.
Remote camping options: Osmore Pond offers secluded sites. "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., highlighting the isolation available at some camping locations.
Hiking from camp: Trail networks connect directly to camping areas. "There are hiking trails right from the campground, which we always appreciate. You can also go down to the water and rent a kayak or canoe from the rangers," reports Laura M. at Branbury State Park Campground.
What campers like
Well-separated campsites: Horse campgrounds near South Pomfret, Vermont offer privacy between sites. "The sites are well separated and private. The grounds are beautiful and well situated to enjoy Groton State Forest," notes Robin B. about New Discovery State Park.
Clean facilities: Many equestrian campgrounds maintain high standards. "The camp staff was so nice. They kept the bathrooms and areas so clean," writes Nicole E. about her experience at Groton Forest Road Campground.
Proximity to water features: Several campgrounds provide water access. "Across the street from the campground was access to the lake with plenty of grassy areas to hang out. And beautiful sunsets at night!" shares a camper who enjoyed the lake views.
Horse-specific amenities: Dedicated equestrian areas enhance the experience. "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," notes Sarah C., describing the diversity of sites available.
What you should know
Limited availability: Equestrian sites fill quickly. "Reservations are def a plus. Can be difficult to get into on the weekend," advises Saige V. about Tippicanoe Campground.
Bear awareness required: Wildlife precautions are essential. "There are bears around the area though so please be bear smart when camping here," warns Laura M., emphasizing the importance of proper food storage.
Seasonal considerations: Sites close during colder months. "Fall in New England can't be beat," notes Ryan about the optimal camping seasons, with most horse campgrounds operating from Memorial Day through Columbus Day.
Water supply limitations: Filling RV tanks requires adaptation. "The spigots for the water are not threaded. We tried our water bandit, with messy wet results," explains a camper who found an alternative solution at the dump station.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer child-friendly amenities. "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," reports J L. about NV Farms Outfitters and Cabins.
Educational opportunities: Nature centers provide learning experiences. "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," describes Lisa S., noting the family-friendly amenities.
Child-safe environments: Campgrounds maintain secure settings. "You can relax and know that the kids are safe and you will be stress-free for your stay," shares a parent about their family camping experience.
Lean-to options: Shelters provide easier camping with children. "The lean-to sites are really cool, and if I was tent camping I think they'd be so fun to sleep in," suggests a camper about the alternative accommodation options.
Tips from RVers
Dump station locations: Most equestrian campgrounds provide waste disposal facilities. "There is a dump station and drinking water on site, but the spigots for the water are not threaded," notes a camper at Branbury State Park Campground.
Site selection for larger vehicles: Not all sites accommodate RVs. "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," warns a camper about the variable terrain.
Hookup availability: Electric connections exist at select sites. "There are sites with electric hookups as well as some without," explains a camper describing the amenities available to RVers bringing horses.
Shower facilities: Coin-operated showers serve all campers. "Showers are something like $1 for 8 minutes, quarters only," advises Laura M. about the practical details of staying at horse-friendly campgrounds near South Pomfret.
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