New Discovery State Park Campground provides specialized equestrian facilities within Vermont's scenic Groton State Forest. Located approximately 23 miles east of Waterbury Center, this campground sits at an elevation of around 1,100 feet in the northern Green Mountains. The campground remains open from Memorial Day weekend through Columbus Day weekend, with nighttime temperatures that can drop significantly even during summer months.
What to Do
Trail riding opportunities: The extensive network of trails accessible from New Discovery State Park Campground connects riders to multiple water features. "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," notes Rick S.
Swimming access: Several ponds within the Groton State Forest system offer swimming opportunities within riding or hiking distance. "The lake was gorgeous to swim in and had different rafts and stuff in the water for public use," shares Reid B. about nearby Groton Forest Road Campground.
Hiking exploration: Multiple hiking trails wind through the forest surrounding the campgrounds. "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," explains Laura M.
What Campers Like
Site privacy: The spacing between campsites provides a feeling of seclusion in most areas. "This easy-to-access campground has made it on my list of places to stay. There are two loops of sites, some deep in the woods with great-looking trees, others in a field, and some in between," reports Miccal M. about New Discovery State Park.
Nature observation: Wildlife viewing opportunities abound throughout the area. "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," advises Laura M.
Beach amenities: Lake access points feature additional recreational facilities. "Spacious sites, hiking trails, biking trails, nice beach and grounds. Fishing, kayak, canoe, paddle boat and paddle board rentals. There's a nature center with all kinds of information and activities," writes J L. about Branbury State Park Campground.
What You Should Know
Bathroom maintenance: Facility upkeep can vary throughout the season. "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. My complaint is in regards to the maintenance of the facilities. The Women's bathroom ran out of toilet paper and was never replaced," reports Robin B.
Water access limitations: Some campgrounds have restrictions on water connections. "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," notes Laura M.
Reservation requirements: Securing a spot can be challenging during peak times. "Reservations are def a plus. Can be difficult to get into on the weekend," advises Saige V. about Groton Forest Road Campground.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas for children. "A large playground. Volleyball and horseshoe pits. Definitely will be returning! Also, bathrooms were always clean and well maintained. Park staff very friendly!" shares J L. about Branbury State Park.
Food storage precautions: Proper food management is essential in bear country. "Just make sure you put your food and trash away—there are black bears in the area!" warns Nicole E. about Branbury State Park.
Activity centers: Some campgrounds offer educational opportunities for children. "There's a nature center with all kinds of information and activities. A large playground," notes J L. Another camper mentions, "There's also a book exchange library and adorable little gnome habitats set up in the campground," adds Laura M.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Not all sites accommodate larger vehicles, so research is essential. "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," explains Laura M.
Water fill procedures: Alternative methods for accessing water may be necessary. "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," shares Laura M. about New Discovery State Park.
Specialized equestrian sites: For those bringing horses to Waterbury Center, Vermont area campgrounds, dedicated facilities are available. "This easy-to-access campground has 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," notes Miccal M. about AuSable Chasm Campground.
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