New Discovery State Park Campground offers equestrian camping opportunities in Vermont's northeastern forest region with access to extensive trail networks. The campground has specific sites designed for horses, providing riders direct connections to natural water features and scenic woodland paths. While the main equestrian sites are located in the camping area's two loops, trail access varies seasonally, particularly between late spring and early fall when most facilities remain open.
What to do
Trail riding through Groton State Forest: At New Discovery State Park Campground, riders can access miles of interconnected trails. "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," notes Laura M., highlighting the variety of activities available directly from camp.
Swimming at multiple pond locations: Within short riding distances of the campground, several water features provide swimming opportunities. "Swimming and boating is a short ride in a couple different directions, Osmore pond, Kettle pond, or Ricker pond," reports Rick S., who stayed at an Eagle lean-to site.
Rail trail excursions: The campground connects to a rail trail system for extended, mostly level riding. "Right along a long rail trail where you can put in many miles and not even know it," according to Rick S., making it ideal for longer trail rides without steep terrain challenges.
Explore remote pond sites: For campers seeking more solitude, "we had the most perfect spot in a private site on osmore pond that was accessible only by canoe! quiet, serene, beautiful!" shares Sambath T. about their secluded water-access camping experience at Groton Forest Road Campground.
What campers like
Private, well-separated sites: The camping layout at New Discovery offers good spacing between sites. "The sites are well separated and private. The grounds are beautiful and well situated to enjoy Groton State Forest," reports Robin B., though she noted some maintenance issues with bathroom supplies.
Multiple camping environments: The variety of site settings appeals to different preferences. "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 horse riding," observed Miccal M.
Lake access and swimming: Water features rank highly with campers visiting the region. At Branbury State Park Campground, "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," according to Lisa S., who appreciates the combination of camping and water recreation.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The forest setting provides chances to observe native wildlife. "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," notes Laura M. about the importance of proper food storage when camping in this region.
What you should know
Bear safety requirements: Proper food storage is essential in this region. "There are bears around the area though so please be bear smart when camping here," warns Laura M. This includes securing horse feed at equestrian sites.
Water access limitations: Some water spigots have non-standard configurations. "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," explains Laura M.
Fee structure: Expect both camping and park entrance fees. "Camp fees are $28/night, plus $5/day per adult for state park fees," reports Laura M., which applies to both standard and equestrian camping options.
Site variability: Sites differ significantly in terrain and suitability for equipment. "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," observes Laura M., highlighting the importance of selecting appropriate sites for horse trailers.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with diverse activities: Family-friendly locations offer multiple recreation options. At Branbury State Park Campground, "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.
Consider campsites with natural features: Sites with natural elements provide built-in entertainment. At Hancock Campground, "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," shares Desiree V.
Plan for bathroom accessibility: When camping with children, bathroom proximity matters. "Close enough to the bathrooms too," notes Rick S. about the Eagle lean-to site at New Discovery, making midnight bathroom trips more manageable for families.
Prepare for weather variability: Vermont's climate can change rapidly. "Even in august the nights get to a good sleeping temperature a vast majority of the time," notes Stephen T. about Branbury State Park, suggesting packing layers even for summer camping trips.
Tips from RVers
Water and electrical connections: RV sites offer varied hookup options. At Gunstock Campground, "Large campsites, clean amenities, nice dog park, great store with everything you need and located near like Winni," reports Ryan P.
Dump station access: For equestrian camping with RVs, plan for waste management. "There is a dump station and drinking water on site, but the spigots for the water are not threaded," notes Laura M. about New Discovery State Park, suggesting RVers bring adapters for filling tanks.
Site selection considerations: RVers should research site dimensions carefully. "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," warns Laura M., highlighting the importance of selecting level sites with adequate space for both RV and horse trailer parking.
Shower facilities: When available, showers enhance the RV camping experience. "Showers are something like $1 for 8 minutes, quarters only," explains Laura M. about New Discovery State Park, advising campers to bring quarters for this amenity.
