Northwest River Park & Campground spans 763 acres in Chesapeake, Virginia with recreational opportunities for equestrian campers. Located 45 miles from Kill Devil Hills, the park operates seasonally from April through November and features a combination of wooded terrain and wetland areas. Campsites include both standard options with picnic tables and fire rings as well as dedicated spaces for those traveling with horses.
What to do
Trail riding: Multiple equestrian-friendly trails wind through the park's diverse landscape. As Elizabeth V. notes, "Equestrian trails available, which is always a plus."
Water activities: The park offers kayak rentals and designated launch areas for enjoying the Northwest River. According to Heather L., "sites are small but the park does not fill up during the week. There are a few hikes leading back to the river. Canoes and paddle boats are available to rent for use in black water."
Recreation beyond hiking: Northwest River Park & Campground provides additional recreational amenities beyond the standard trail system. Patricia L. confirms, "Plenty of things to do for the active camper. Put put golf, kayak, hiking and much more."
Seasonal events: The park hosts educational programs and special events throughout the camping season. Elizabeth V. shares, "Chesapeake Public Park's does a great job with events and education at NWRP! I have spent my childhood here and I am excited to share it with my kids."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campers appreciate the generous site dimensions that accommodate horse trailers. Gary D. reports, "Plenty of room..showers/bathrooms huge..water NOT at all sites but easy to fill tanks. Some sites close to main road but not a lot of traffic."
Clean facilities: Northwest River Park & Campground consistently receives positive feedback about cleanliness. Joseph H. states, "Overall amazed at the cleanliness of the campground. The staff is very friendly. The park was very quiet going into the night."
Attentive staff: Park rangers regularly patrol the grounds and maintain the facilities. Jeff B. confirms, "Great staff. Very helpful and keep the park clean. They have firewood at $6.00 a bundle. We went on a sellout weekend but was still pretty quiet."
Peaceful atmosphere: Despite being one of the few equestrian campgrounds near Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina, the park generally maintains a calm environment. Sykeethia T. mentions, "Love this camp ground. Just love how clean it is. Bathrooms, showers are a big plus. Nice trails and fishing. Will be visiting again."
What you should know
Water availability: Water access points exist but may not be available at every site. Sally T. advises, "Plan on bringing your own water as there isn't always running water (not sure why)."
Reservation system: Direct bookings with the park may be easier than using third-party services. Nicole L. explains, "My only issue was the parks reservation system. I reserved the campsite using the online, Reserve America system. About a week before our trip I had to change plans and only stay 2 days instead of 3. Tried to change the reservation but the park said I had to do it with Reserve America."
Trash disposal: Waste management facilities are limited to specific locations. Sheri K. notes, "The only thing I have a problem with here, is that there are no garbage cans or dumpsters near the campsites. The only garbage containers I found were near the dump station, which is on the way out of the park, nowhere near the campground!"
Seasonal considerations: For equestrian camping opportunities near Kill Devil Hills, weather conditions can impact site usability. Nicole L. cautions, "Because this area is near wetlands some of the campsites were flooded throughout the weekend. If rain a lot of rain is forecasted you may want to talk to one of the rangers about your particular site."
Tips for camping with families
Midweek visits: For families seeking a quieter horse camping experience near Kill Devil Hills, weekday bookings offer less crowded conditions. Heather L. points out that "the park does not fill up during the week."
Pet policies: The campground accommodates families traveling with dogs. Nicole L. shares, "Campgrounds were very dog friendly, which made camping with the dog enjoyable."
Rental options: Northwest River Park & Campground provides recreational equipment rentals that can enhance family outings. Heather L. mentions that "canoes and paddle boats are available to rent for use in black water."
Educational opportunities: Families can participate in ranger-led programs and nature activities. Elizabeth V. recommends, "We hike here when visiting grandparents. Chesapeake Public Park's does a great job with events and education at NWRP!"
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: RV sites may require minor adjustments for optimal positioning. Sheri K. advises, "The sites are gravel and mostly level but I did have to use a couple blocks of my levelers."
Stay duration: Northwest River Park & Campground has specific policies regarding extended stays. Sheri K. explains, "I asked if they had weekly rates and was told yes. But of course you are limited to 14 days like so many other campgrounds. When I arrived and talked to the clerk about the weekly rates, all he did was multiply the daily rate by the number of days. There is no discounted weekly rate."
Pricing structure: RVers should note the variable pricing system. According to Sheri K., "It was $42 for the first night and drops to $38 per night for the rest of my stay."
Hookup availability: Electric and water hookups are available but may vary by site. Gary D. notes, "water NOT at all sites but easy to fill tanks."
