New Discovery State Park
Groton State Forest’s Trail Hub — 61 Campsites, Horse Camp, Remote Lean-Tos on Osmore Pond & Vermont’s Premier Forest Basecamp
New Discovery State Park is the primary camping hub within Vermont’s 26,000-acre Groton State Forest — one of the largest contiguous public landholdings in the state. Located on VT Route 232 near Peacham, the park offers 46 tent/RV sites, 15 lean-to sites, 8 dedicated horse camping sites, and 7 remote backcountry sites on Osmore Pond — an unusually diverse range of overnight options that makes it the most versatile campground in the Groton system.
From New Discovery, visitors access miles of hiking trails throughout Groton State Forest, including routes to Owl’s Head Mountain, Big Deer Mountain, and Peacham Bog. The park’s equestrian camping facilities — with metal paddocks, water troughs, and a horse-washing station — are a rare offering in the Vermont state park system. And the remote lean-tos on Osmore Pond, accessible only by foot or paddle, provide a genuine backcountry experience within a managed state park.
Things to Do
Hiking
New Discovery serves as a trailhead hub for the Groton State Forest network:
- Owl’s Head Mountain Trail: Scenic summit with panoramic views of the surrounding forest and lakes — the most popular hike in Groton
- Osmore Pond Loop: Circumnavigates the pond, passing remote campsites and wetland habitat
- Big Deer Mountain: Moderate climb through mixed hardwood and boreal forest
- Peacham Bog: Boardwalk trail through a unique boreal bog ecosystem with carnivorous plants
Paddling & Fishing
- Osmore Pond: Non-motorized boating on a quiet, forest-rimmed pond
- Boat rentals: Canoes and kayaks available on-site
- Fishing: Osmore Pond is stocked with trout — bring a rod for shore or boat fishing
Horseback Riding
One of the few Vermont state parks with dedicated equestrian facilities:
- 8 horse camping sites with metal paddocks and water troughs
- Horse-washing station
- Access to multi-use trails throughout Groton State Forest
Nature Programs
- Groton Nature Center: Nearby within the state forest — interpretive programs, guided hikes, and educational displays
- Playground and horseshoe pits at the campground
- Two reservable picnic pavilions: Osmore Pond Pavilion and Owl’s Head Pavilion
Camping
| Type | Sites | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Tent/RV Sites | 46 | Fire rings; picnic tables; no hookups |
| Lean-to Sites | 15 | Three-sided Adirondack shelters; fire rings |
| Horse Camp Sites | 8 | Metal paddocks; water troughs; horse-wash station |
| Remote/Backcountry | 7 (Osmore Pond) | 4 lean-tos + 3 tent sites; hike/paddle-in only |
Facilities: Restrooms with flush toilets, hot/cold running water, token-operated hot showers. Dump station (no hookups). Firewood and ice for sale. Season: Memorial Day through Columbus Day weekend.
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Highlights | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | ⭐ PEAK: Full trail access; paddling; nature programs; horse camping; longest days | Busy weekends; book lean-tos early; mosquitoes near water |
| Fall (Sep–Oct) | ⭐ Vermont foliage at peak; cool hiking; Owl’s Head views spectacular; quiet camping | Cold nights; park closes Columbus Day; shorter days |
| Spring (May–Jun) | Wildflowers; spring birding; trout stocking; quiet trails; mud season clearing | Wet trails; facilities opening Memorial Day; cold water |
| Winter | Park closed for camping | Groton State Forest trails may be accessible for XC skiing |
Visitor Tips
- Trail hub: New Discovery is the best base camp for exploring Groton State Forest’s entire trail network. The Owl’s Head Mountain Trail alone is worth the trip — panoramic views from the summit are among the best in central Vermont.
- Osmore Pond remote sites: The 7 backcountry sites on Osmore Pond (4 lean-tos + 3 tent sites) are accessible only by hiking or paddling — a genuine backcountry experience within a managed park. Reserve early; they’re popular with experienced campers.
- Horse camping: The 8 equestrian sites are a rare amenity in Vermont — metal paddocks, water troughs, and a wash station make this one of the best horse camping destinations in New England.
- Swimming: New Discovery itself does not have a swimming beach. Your entry fee grants access to Boulder Beach State Park on Lake Groton — the primary swimming spot within Groton State Forest.
- No hookups: No electrical or water hookups at any site. Come self-sufficient with a charged setup for RV camping.
- Seven parks: Groton State Forest contains seven state parks — combine New Discovery with Ricker Pond, Stillwater, Kettle Pond, or Boulder Beach for a multi-day forest exploration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does New Discovery State Park allow horses?
Yes — New Discovery is one of the few Vermont state parks with dedicated equestrian facilities. The park offers 8 horse camping sites equipped with metal paddocks, water troughs, and a horse-washing station. Riders access multi-use trails throughout the 26,000-acre Groton State Forest. Reservations are recommended, especially for summer weekends. Contact Vermont State Parks for current equestrian site availability and trail conditions.
What is the best hike from New Discovery State Park?
The Owl’s Head Mountain Trail is the most popular hike from New Discovery — a moderate climb to a scenic summit with panoramic views of Groton State Forest, surrounding lakes, and the Green Mountains. Other excellent options include the Osmore Pond Loop (circumnavigating the pond with access to remote campsites), the Big Deer Mountain trail, and the Peacham Bog boardwalk through a unique boreal ecosystem with carnivorous plants.
Last updated: April 2026
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