New Discovery is one of 7 state parks within the 26,000-acre Groton State Forest in northern Vermont. It was built in the 1930’s by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), a federal agency created by Frankling D. Roosevelt to employ young men via civic construction projects during the Great Depression. Today, remnants of the former CCC barracks, dining hall, and other structures can be spotted among the park’s reforested areas. The park also encompasses a small cemetery containing the 3 graves of the Heath family, who, in the mid- to late-1800’s, farmed the rugged land on which the park was built.
.
New Discovery comprises 38 tent/RV sites (no water or electric hook-ups), 15 lean-to sites, and 8 horse-camping sites with room for trailers, individual corrals, and a central watering and horse-washing station. All sites feature picnic tables and fire pits, and the park provides ready access to miles of well-marked bridle and hiking trails.
There are also 4 remote lean-to’s and 3 remote tent sites on the shores of 100-acre Osmore Pond, which features a handful of canoes for rent (guests can also bring their own small craft). Fishing is allowed in the pond, which is stocked with trout. You can purchase a VT fishing license here.
Firewood is available at the park’s main entrance for $9 per bundle, and ice can be purchased by the bag. The campground also offers flush toilets and hot showers in centrally located bathhouses, as well as a large shelter at Osmore Pond that can be rented for events.
We visited New Discovery in 2025 and appreciated how most of the campsites featured ample wooded buffer zones that offered a sense of privacy. The grounds are well-groomed and the facilities are clean. The friendly park staff clearly takes pride in the place!
