New Discovery State Park Campground within Groton State Forest provides designated campsites for horse riders, featuring special stalls for equestrian guests. The park encompasses the highest point in Groton State Forest at approximately 1,500 feet elevation, resulting in cooler temperatures year-round compared to surrounding areas. The campground contains primitive shelters along Osmore Pond accessible only by foot or canoe.
What to do
Explore rail trails: The rail trail system connected to New Discovery State Park Campground offers extensive riding opportunities. "Awesome state park. Right along a long rail trail where you can put in many miles and not even know it," notes Rick S., who stayed at the Eagle lean-to.
Wildlife watching: Early mornings provide opportunities for wildlife observation. "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.
Water recreation: Multiple bodies of water are accessible within short distances. "Swimming and boating is a short ride in a couple different directions, Osmore pond, Kettle pond, or Ricker pond," explains a camper who found entertainment in watching local wildlife.
What campers like
Private sites: Many visitors appreciate the spacing between camping areas. "The sites are well separated and private. The grounds are beautiful and well situated to enjoy Groton State Forest," writes Robin B. about their experience at New Discovery.
Secluded pond access: Groton Forest Road Campground offers water recreation with amenities. "The lake was gorgeous to swim in and had different rafts and stuff in the water for public use," shares Reid B., who enjoyed the spacious campsites with privacy between them.
Variety of site options: Campers appreciate the diverse camping environments available. "This state park has a little bit of everything. 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," describes Sarah C., noting the significant variation in site sizes throughout the campground.
What you should know
Facility maintenance: Bathroom cleanliness varies seasonally and by campground. "Park staff were attentive and restrooms were being cleaned with frequency," reports one camper, though others note inconsistencies in supply restocking.
Water access challenges: New Discovery State Park Campground has non-standard water connections. "The spigots for the water are not threaded. We tried our water bandit, with messy wet results," explains Laura M., who found a workaround by unscrewing the hose head at the dump station.
Reservation requirements: Campgrounds fill quickly, especially during summer and fall foliage seasons. "Reservations are def a plus. Can be difficult to get into on the weekend," advises Saige V., who recommends planning ahead for Groton Forest Road Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites strategically: When camping with children, site location matters. "There are two main loops, one is more secluded and spaced out than the other," notes Sarah C., who details the varying privacy levels throughout the campground.
Consider remote shelter accessibility: For families with young children, evaluate walk-in shelter distances. "If bringing a full-sized cooler (or other large/luxury car camping items) be sure you are heading to a site closer to the parking area," advises a camper who found longer walks challenging with heavy equipment.
Look for entertainment options: Natural features provide activities for children. "There are also a book exchange library and adorable little gnome habitats set up in the campground," mentions Laura M., highlighting family-friendly features at New Discovery.
Tips from RVers
Site selection varies significantly: RV campers should research specific sites before booking. "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., who recommends checking site details carefully.
Shower facilities: Coin-operated showers require quarters. "Showers are something like $1 for 8 minutes, quarters only," notes a camper, suggesting visitors bring appropriate change for bathing facilities.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity is unreliable in most areas. "Not much cell service, but some in places," reports Miccal M. after driving through New Discovery, suggesting visitors should plan accordingly for limited communication options.
Legend
