New Discovery State Park Campground provides dedicated horse stalls for equestrian campers in Vermont's Groton State Forest. This campground combines traditional camping facilities with specialized equestrian accommodations, allowing visitors to bring their horses during seasonal operation from Memorial Day weekend through Columbus Day. The campground maintains two distinct loops of campsites with varying levels of privacy, some nestled deep in the woods and others situated in open fields. Sites are well separated, providing adequate space between camping neighbors. Bathroom facilities include coin-operated showers, though maintenance issues have occasionally been reported regarding supplies.
Direct trail access from New Discovery makes it particularly valuable for riders, offering immediate connections to the extensive network of paths throughout Groton State Forest. The campground's proximity to Osmore Pond, Kettle Pond, and Ricker Pond provides diverse riding destinations and water access points. Horse-friendly amenities include picnic tables, fire rings, and drinking water, with alcohol permitted and pets allowed at campsites. The remote location offers minimal cell service in most areas, providing a genuine wilderness experience. For campers seeking an even more secluded option, walk-in lean-to shelters around Osmore Pond offer rustic accommodations accessible via hiking trails that circumnavigate the water body, though these locations may not accommodate horses.
"Decent bathroom situation--I've seen better and I've seen worse in Vermont."
"The park is amazingly clean, well run, located just of RT 4 and very near to Killington, Vermont. It has multiple lean-to sites which are in wooded areas."
"The site was so scenic with a little waterfall and stream nearby. The camp staff was so nice. They kept the the bathrooms and areas so clean."
"Love to lake access, secluded camping, the hiking and remote area. Planning on revisiting next summer, even in august the nights get to a good sleeping temperature a vast majority of the time."
$20 - $38 / night
"There are even sites with stalls if you're into horses. The bathhouse looks typical and clean.
Not much cell service, but some in places.
Easy access to a lake and a picnic pavilion."
"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."
$35 / night
"The lake was gorgeous to swim in and had different rafts and stuff in the water for public use. The bathrooms were well maintained along with the showers."
$125 - $500 / night
LegendPlenty of space between sites. Decent bathroom situation--I've seen better and I've seen worse in Vermont. The (AT&T) cell phone reception was pretty good, but could be slow at times (which could be because of the area or because of the busy fall color season.)
ScoutI've stayed at 10 of the state parks of VT. Gifford Woods takes the cake in friendliness of its staff. The park is amazingly clean, well run, located just of RT 4 and very near to Killington, Vermont. It has multiple lean-to sites which are in wooded areas. Cool stone bathrooms and playing fields for kids but the highlight (for me) is access to the Appalachian Trail. The AT runs directly through this park. While on a 4 state section hike I traveled by foot through this park. The ranger gave me an ice cream, pointed me to the showers and then chatted with me for an hour about my hike so far. He also gave me a ride to the Inn at Long Trail to pick up a resupply box since I was a few days behind schedule and low on food. I'll always remember his kindness. Living just across the state line in NH, I have frequented Gifford Woods on 4 other occasions for day hiking with family. Enjoy! I sure did!
LegendThis 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. There are even sites with stalls if you're into horses.
The bathhouse looks typical and clean.
Not much cell service, but some in places.
Easy access to a lake and a picnic pavilion.
Noticed more than a few sites that I could hang at.
GuideThis campground is the number one rated in Vermont for a reason. The staff were wonderful, the sites are pristine and picturesque, the faculties are decorated with wildflowers. We met a number of AT through hikers, who were very willing to share their adventure stories.
ScoutIf I could leave a no star rating, I would. To anyone who is looking to park there camper for the season, I recommend going elsewhere. The previous owner was a more reasonable guy and well respected. Save yourself the time and energy and do not sign a contract here, unless you want to later be told you have to leave for a reason that will not be discussed. The current owner is a dictator who likes to show favoritism. Please save yourself the trouble and try a different campground, there are plenty in the state of Vermont.
ScoutWhen camping in VT it is usually our goal to hike, rest, cook, and relax at camp. We live in a busy/loud city so we really love a rural spot where we can just unplug and enjoy nature. Gifford Woods has great access to the AT and the Long Trail, nice bathrooms, and kind staff... but campers beware- it is wedged between two major highways. Initially we pulled up to the site "Poplar" after driving 4+ hours and I could have cried, this site faces a large DOT/Parks Dept. parking lot with a huge building and trucks everywhere. Luckily the (very sweet) staff said they understood that this was an issue and that they do get lots of complaints about that site. They moved us to T02 which was dramatically better. Unfortunately, you can still hear trucks/car honking/ambulances from that site and I assume all other sites. I understand now that people camp here just for AT access, but I would probably not go back due to the sheer volume of the neighboring highways and quieter camping options nearby.
LegendThis 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. Site size various pretty vastly as you travel through the campground. There are two main loops, one is more secluded and spaced out than the other. The campground loops have bath houses, complete with coin operated showers. Park staff were attentive and restrooms were being cleaned with frequency.
There are more remote walk-in shelters on the Osmore Pond, located within New Discovery State Park. The shelters are rustic, have shared outhouses between a few sites, fire pits and small picnic tables. 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, depending what side of the pond you are camping on. 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. It would be a challenge to get some of those larger, heavier items to sites across the pond from the parking lot.
GuideThis campsite was amazing. Each site had a fair amount of isolation and trees surrounding it, and the mosquitoes aren't too bad there either. 10 minutes away is the trail head for the Bucklin Trail (one of the most difficult trails for Mt. Killington).
Also, the campsite lies directly on the Appalachian trail, so for a shorter or less-intensive hike, walk about 2.5 miles to the Deer Leap Overlook for some incredible views of the mountain ranges nearby.
RangerGreat campground with many hiking trails and a peaceful pond with fishing across the street. Clean bathrooms and showers and great cell service for people working while camping! Stayed at site 15 in the lower campground for a few nights and it was level and spacious but pretty close to neighbors compared to other sites. Then we moved to lean to ELM in the upper campground and it was a nice private site. It was perched on a hill but we were still able to park and sleep in our van next to the lean to. Highly recommend!
Vermont offers a unique experience for horse camping enthusiasts, with several campgrounds providing excellent amenities and access to beautiful trails.
Frequently Asked Questions
What trails and riding areas are available at Vermont horse camping sites?
Vermont horse camping sites offer access to diverse riding terrain. Branbury State Park Campground connects to excellent trail systems including the nearby Rattlesnake Cliffs trail, providing scenic overlooks and varied terrain suitable for different riding skill levels. The surrounding areas feature a mix of wooded paths and open meadows ideal for equestrians. Throughout Vermont, riders can typically access a network of multi-use trails that wind through state forests, alongside lakes, and across the picturesque Green Mountain landscape. Many trails connect to the extensive Vermont Trail System, offering opportunities for both short rides and longer excursions through the state's diverse natural settings.
Where can I find horse camping facilities in Vermont?
Vermont offers several campgrounds with equine-friendly facilities. New Discovery State Park Campground in Groton State Forest provides dedicated sites with horse stalls, making it an excellent choice for equestrians. The campground offers easy access to the surrounding forest for riding. For a more rustic experience, NV Farms Outfitters and Cabins provides horse-friendly accommodations with basic amenities. When planning your horse camping trip, it's advisable to make reservations in advance, especially during peak summer and fall seasons, as equestrian sites are limited throughout the state.
What amenities are typically provided at Vermont horse camping facilities?
Vermont horse camping facilities typically provide essential equestrian amenities to ensure comfortable stays. Groton Forest Road Campground and similar equine-friendly sites often include paddocks or hitching posts, access to water for horses, and parking space for trailers. Most horse-friendly campgrounds maintain clean bathroom facilities with flushing toilets and showers for campers. Many sites offer both primitive camping options and areas with electrical hookups. Additional amenities may include designated wash areas for horses, manure disposal areas, and proximity to riding trails. Some facilities provide communal fire rings, picnic tables, and access to nearby recreational opportunities like swimming and hiking to enhance the overall camping experience.
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