Equestrian camping options abound within 40 miles of West Jefferson, North Carolina, with several facilities offering direct trail access. The area sits at elevations ranging from 2,800 to 5,500 feet, creating variable weather conditions even during summer months. Temperatures can drop below 50°F at night in higher elevations, requiring campers to pack layers regardless of season.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Basin Cove Campground offers primitive sites with access to excellent waterfall trails. "The hike in is excellent, as it follows the river along the way," notes Julie L., who emphasizes that "the site is surrounded by excellent hiking trails and is a great place to set as 'base camp' for day hikes."
Play in creek waters: Sandy Creek Family Campground provides sites next to a flowing creek. Ann H. describes the experience: "Our sites were creek side. The kids enjoyed playing in the creek and on the playground. The grounds are adjacent to the Stone Mountain State Park."
Wildlife viewing: Look for native animals at Stone Mountain State Park. "We camped at RV site 40 and I think it's the best. There's a roaring large creek that flows behind the site and a grassy field full of deer beside it," reports Charli R., adding that in December "there wasn't many people there at all, maybe 4 other campers all weekend."
What campers like
Quiet, remote settings: Julian Price Park Campground offers a peaceful camping experience. Gary C. notes, "Semi private sites for tents. Some RV sites are on the edge of the road. Clean restrooms and showers. Great hiking trails nearby beginning in the campground. Dog friendly."
Clean facilities: Horse campgrounds near West Jefferson, North Carolina maintain good standards. At Chestnut Hollow Horse Campground, Jean C. explains: "There are open and closed stall options for an additional fee. These were clean and in good repair. Although the official season runs May - October, it is open for primitive camping March, April, and November."
Family activities: Campgrounds often include extras for children. Jimmy M. says of Sandy Creek Family Campground: "Found this place in September 2018 and went back 3 more times before winter. The owner (Barry) takes great care of the place and customer service is top notch."
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Always check current status before planning a trip. Duane C. reported of Julian Price Park Campground: "Campground is closed due to hurricane damage."
Limited services: Equestrian camping near West Jefferson requires planning. Jean C. explains about Fox Creek Horse Camp: "Bring your own water. No hookups provided. Hitching posts at sites. Manure collection available. At $5/night, it's hard to beat the price."
Facility maintenance varies: Bathroom conditions can differ between campgrounds. Brian B. shares about Sandy Creek: "Nice campground. Had a nice site on a little creek. Owner was nice. However, the shower house was the worst of any campground I have ever seen."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Sandy Creek Family Campground offers dedicated play areas. Ann H. reports: "The kids enjoyed playing in the creek and on the playground. The grounds are adjacent to the Stone Mountain State Park. Very fun long weekend at a family friendly campground."
Stargazing opportunities: Several area campgrounds offer dark skies. As Hollz explains about Basin Cove: "Campsite is right next to the creek—fun to hear the water at night. Stars are amazing!"
Level sites for easy setup: Look for campgrounds with developed tent pads. Stone Mountain State Park provides well-maintained areas as noted by David B.: "The camp sites are mostly level, well maintained and have tent pads, tables and fire rings. I chose a site that had water and electric hook-ups."
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup reliability: Check power stability before settling in. Kirsten J. notes about Sandy Creek Family Campground: "Extended family was staying in an RV site while we were there and they had some problems with their power staying on."
Dump station locations: Not all campgrounds provide adequate facilities. Becca C. shares about Sandy Creek: "The biggest negative I would say was the dump station. It was on the hill so you had to back up to it and it wasn't easy location to do so."
Site spacing: Old Virginia Group Horse Camp provides ample room for multiple vehicles. Jean C. explains: "There's enough space for a number of trailers, including large ones, and up to 25 horses. There's a fair amount of grassy area and it's lined with rhododendron."
