Campers seeking equestrian adventures near West Hartford, Vermont find the Groton State Forest area particularly suitable. Located in Vermont's Northeast Kingdom at elevations ranging from 900 to 1,500 feet, this region offers cooler temperatures than surrounding areas, especially during summer evenings when temperatures typically drop into the 50s. The abundant national forest and state park land creates opportunities for extended outdoor recreation without leaving public spaces.
What to do
Trail riding and hiking: New Discovery State Park Campground has direct access to extensive trail systems. "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. about New Discovery State Park Campground.
Swimming in natural ponds: Multiple water access points are available throughout the state forest. "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.
Visiting historic sites: The area surrounding Branbury State Park Campground offers cultural exploration options. "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. The concession stand is open during day use hours," mentions Lisa S.
Seasonal camping: Most horse campgrounds near West Hartford operate from Memorial Day weekend through Columbus Day weekend. Winter options are limited to primitive camping at select sites.
What campers like
Well-maintained facilities: Equestrian campers appreciate accessible amenities. "The bathhouse looks typical and clean. Not much cell service, but some in places. Easy access to a lake and a picnic pavilion," reports Miccal M. about New Discovery State Park Campground.
Diverse campsite options: Horse campgrounds around West Hartford feature varied site layouts. "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," Miccal M. adds.
Affordability: State parks maintain reasonable rates despite offering quality facilities. "Camp fees are $28/night, plus $5/day per adult for state park fees," notes Laura M.
Access to water features: Multiple water recreation options exist near Hancock Campground. "There is also a fabulous swimming hole. Clear, cold and deep just off the car camping area," writes Tara S., adding "Hancock Campground is a five-minute drive from Lincoln, NH, and very close to awesome hiking trails."
What you should know
Bear safety requirements: Proper food management is essential throughout the region. "There are bears around the area though so please be bear smart when camping here," warns Laura M. Another camper mentions, "Each site had a picnic table, fire pit with a grill, and bear boxes."
Water sources: While water is available, hookup configurations vary. "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," explains Laura M. from her experience at New Discovery.
Seasonal considerations: Groton Forest Road Campground can be busy during peak times. "Reservations are def a plus. Can be difficult to get into on the weekend," advises Saige V.
Insect activity: Equestrian campers should prepare for occasional insect issues. One camper reported, "We camped here Wednesday-Friday on one of the riverfront tent sites... Big negative: Our site was completely swarmed with bees."
Tips for camping with families
Choose remote sites thoughtfully: Remote sites require careful planning. "The remote sites are spaced nicely around the pond along a hiking trail that skirts the perimeter. The walk from the parking area to the shelters varies... If bringing a full-sized cooler be sure you are heading to a site closer to the parking area," advises Sarah C. about Tippicanoe Campground.
Utilize lean-to shelters: Covered options provide additional comfort. "The lean-to sites are really cool, and if I was tent camping I think they'd be so fun to sleep in," notes Laura M.
Pack for variable weather: Weather changes quickly in Vermont's higher elevations. "Even in august the nights get to a good sleeping temperature a vast majority of the time," observes Stephen T.
Consider bathroom access: Bathroom facilities vary by site location. "The campground loops have bath houses, complete with coin operated showers. Park staff were attentive and restrooms were being cleaned with frequency," reports Sarah C.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for horse trailers: Choose sites with adequate space for equestrian equipment. "This campground is run by a very pleasant couple who take great pride in this property... The sites all have water, 50amp and sewer hookups," notes David G. about Ramblewood Cabins and Campground, adding, "Very few tenting, mostly RVs on the well laid out grounds where you are not far from the beautiful beach."
Water and electrical considerations: Electric service varies between campgrounds. "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," explains Sarah C.
Site grading challenges: Be aware of terrain variations. "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," cautions Laura M.
Dump station protocol: Plan for proper waste management. "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," advises Laura M.
