The Kitzmiller region sits at elevations between 1,700-2,500 feet in western Maryland's Appalachian plateau. The area receives approximately 42 inches of annual precipitation, creating lush forest environments where equestrian camping opportunities exist within a 40-mile radius. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F during day and 55-65°F at night, making the region suitable for camping from late April through October.
What to do
Trail riding access: Big Run State Park Campground connects to over 20 miles of trails in Savage River State Forest, offering moderate terrain for day rides. "Beautiful campsite and loved the sound of the river as white noise!" notes Zoe H. The park provides natural water sources throughout the riding areas.
Fishing opportunities: The Cove Campground in Gore, Virginia provides lake fishing within 35 miles of Kitzmiller. "The lake is stocked with trout spring and fall. It is an easy drive to many of the local trout streams such as the Gandy, the Glady and Shavers Fork," says Tim M., highlighting additional fishing options in the region.
Mountain exploration: Horse riders can access scenic viewpoints throughout the region. At Spruce Knob Lake Campground, campers can ride to elevations over 4,000 feet. As Jennifer B. notes, "There are at least 60-miles of trails in the surrounding Monongahela National Forest, including the very pleasant, 1-mile, Big Bend River Trail accessible from the campground."
What campers like
Secluded sites: Primitive camping areas provide space between campers. At Gandy Creek Dispersed Camping, "Each site is secluded and creek front. We stayed at the last site with the cliff over hang and it was magical," reports Sandra B., mentioning the privacy valued by equestrian campers.
Water features: Streams for horse watering are abundant. According to Nathan S. at Big Run State Park, "Stream was incredible and lively with trout and crayfish. So quiet and very little traffic. Tons of space between sites." These water sources prove essential for horse camping.
Varied terrain: The region offers diverse trail conditions. Melanie S. appreciates the riding options: "We picked a spot about halfway into the dispersed camping area, creek side along the Gandy creek. Will be back to this area to explore and stay at other campsites!" The topography provides varying challenges for horse riders.
What you should know
Limited horse facilities: Most campgrounds lack dedicated equestrian amenities like permanent corrals. "The sites ranges in size from tent capable to large RV and group sites. Sites will usually have a fire circle and you are close to the creek," explains Joshua H. about Gandy Creek. Horse owners must bring portable corrals or highline equipment.
Weather considerations: Mountain weather can change rapidly. At Trout Pond Recreation Area, "Mid-August was a gamble as to weather. It was gorgeous weather! In the valley and surrounded by beautiful mountain views it was 80 daytime and ~60 at night," shares Laure D., reflecting typical summer conditions for horse camping.
Road conditions: Access roads to horse-friendly campgrounds can be challenging. "The drive back is well maintained dirt road," notes Marino about Gandy Creek, though some roads require higher clearance vehicles to access horse-suitable camping areas.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water activities: Several camping areas offer safe water play. At Big Run State Park, Andy C. reports, "Used lot 73 for a 26ft hybrid camper. Fit perfectly! It was flat, large, clean and right by the creek. The kids loved playing in the water." These creek-side sites offer natural entertainment for families with horses.
Spacious sites: Select camping areas with adequate room for horses and family activities. "The sites are widely spaced with lots of shade and so much undergrowth I only saw my neighbors when I took a walk to check out the campground," shares Jennifer B. about Yokums Vacationland, noting the space beneficial for families with horses.
Beginner-friendly trails: Some areas offer easier paths for novice riders. Wendi C. notes, "This is a wonderful place to go. The beach is nice and lots of fishing, hiking, playgrounds for the kids." These gentler trails make horse camping more accessible for families with varying riding abilities.
Tips from RVers
Horse trailer parking: Sites with adequate turn-around space are limited in the region. At Revelle's River Resort, Todd C. mentions, "We had a river lot which was beautiful. Restaurant, Shavers Saloon, was walking distance and had full bar with good food." The resort can accommodate some horse trailers with advance planning.
Water and electric access: Most horse campgrounds near Kitzmiller offer only basic amenities. "We camped in sites with hookups near office and entrance and the toilets are really far," reports Nancy L. about The Cove Campground, highlighting the trade-offs when selecting sites with utilities versus proximity to horse trails.
Length restrictions: RVers with horse trailers should verify size limitations. "The sites are extra-large with lots of shade," notes Jennifer B., though she cautions, "Go slow because there are plenty of blind curves," reflecting the access challenges for larger rigs with horse trailers in mountain terrain.
