Equestrian camping near Williston, Vermont offers access to the Green Mountain National Forest and multiple state parks within a 30-mile radius. The area features elevations ranging from 300 to 2,500 feet with summer temperatures typically between 70-85°F during the day and 50-60°F at night. Campgrounds in this region commonly experience afternoon thunderstorms in summer months, particularly in July and August.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: At New Discovery State Park Campground, horseback riders can access extensive networks throughout Groton State Forest. "This state park has a little bit of everything. There are sites with electric hookups as well as some without... There are even sites with stalls if you're into horses," notes Miccal M., who explored the campground.
Swimming in natural settings: Many campgrounds feature swimming areas on natural lakes or ponds. 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.
Hiking near campsites: Several campgrounds offer direct trail access from 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," writes Laura M. about New Discovery State Park.
Winter activities: Though most campgrounds operate seasonally, the surrounding areas offer winter recreation. "It would be a challenge to get some of those larger, heavier items to sites across the pond from the parking lot," mentions Sarah C. about accessing remote shelters at New Discovery during colder months.
What campers like
Private sites: Many campers appreciate secluded camping spots. "We had the most perfect spot in a private site on osmore pond that was accessible only by canoe! quiet, serene, beautiful!" reports Sambath T. about their Groton Forest Road Campground experience.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and showers are frequently mentioned in positive reviews. At AuSable Chasm Campground, "The campground staff was friendly, and worked hard to keep the bathrooms and showers clean," notes Heather M., who stayed for three nights.
Spacious camping areas: Campers value having room to spread out. "I couldn't believe how large the lots were. While they aren't super far from one another, they are large enough that they seem further than they are," writes Catherine M. about Branbury State Park.
Water access: Proximity to lakes, ponds, and rivers ranks high for visitors. "Across the street from the campground was access to the lake with plenty of grassy areas to hang out. And beautiful sunsets at night! A five minute hike- though it is quite a rocky, boulder-y hike- from the sites leads to a small river and swimming hole," Nicole E. shares about her Branbury State Park experience.
What you should know
Bear awareness: Black bears inhabit wooded areas near campgrounds. "There are bears around the area though so please be bear smart when camping here," warns Laura M. about New Discovery State Park, while Nicole E. advises, "Just make sure you put your food and trash away- there are black bears in the area!"
Variable site sizes: Campground layouts can differ dramatically. At Frontier Town Campground, "Sites are built wrong so it is hard to get you camper into your site correct. It is definitely catered to the equestrian part of the camping," according to Sheri C.
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds in the area operate from late May through mid-October. "We stayed in site 33 which is in the equestrian camping area. It's really open with little tree cover which is perfect for those who work remote using Starlink," shares Chelsea B. about Frontier Town.
Facility maintenance: Quality of bathrooms and water supply varies by location and time of season. "The Women's bathroom ran out of toilet paper and was never replaced. More upsetting was that the soap container was empty all weekend," reports Robin B. about a mid-summer weekend at New Discovery.
Tips for camping with families
Look for playgrounds: Facilities for children enhance family camping experiences. "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. A large playground," recommends J.L. about their Branbury State Park visit.
Consider lean-to options: These structures provide additional shelter for families. "The lean-to sites are really cool, and if I was tent camping I think they'd be so fun to sleep in," suggests Laura M. about New Discovery State Park.
Check for educational programs: Some parks offer nature-focused activities. "The workers are very accommodating. They are across the road from the Chasm to hike, Tube down the river, raft, rock climb, adventure course. They have a small store and rec room for kids," notes Susan S. at AuSable Chasm.
Pack for variable weather: Temperature swings can be significant, especially in spring and fall. "Even in august the nights get to a good sleeping temperature a vast majority of the time," shares Stephen T. about his Branbury State Park experiences.
Tips from RVers
Check site dimensions carefully: RV sites vary widely in size and levelness. "I was in site 43, it was long enough it could have fit two of the biggest RVs I have ever seen. My 75 foot starling cable did not even reach all the way back out to the road," reports Butch K. about Frontier Town.
Water fill challenges: Potable water sources may require adapters. "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. from New Discovery.
Book ahead for holiday weekends: The limited number of RV sites fill quickly during peak periods. "Reservations are def a plus. Can be difficult to get into on the weekend," warns Saige V. about Groton Forest Road Campground.
