Equestrian camping opportunities exist throughout eastern Ohio, with several horse-friendly campgrounds near Moundsville, West Virginia. The region features a mix of wooded trails crossing varied terrain, with elevations ranging from 650 to 1,200 feet. Most horse campgrounds remain open from April through October, though seasonal hunting restrictions may limit trail access during fall months.
What to do
Trail riding at Wayne National Forest: The Kinderhook Horse Trail in Wayne National Forest offers equestrian-focused trails where campers can stay directly at the trailhead. "Area is dedicated to horse trail riding. Nice clean area just off main road. Has a small hand pump water spigot. Has no flush vault toilet," notes Joe B. about the Kinderhook Horse Trail.
Hiking multi-use paths: Jefferson Lake State Park connects to an extensive trail system suitable for both hikers and equestrians. "18 miles of multi use trails! Small lake for wading with the kiddos, fishing near the dam or skip rocks in the creek," says Theresa Tittle R. about the Jefferson Lake State Park Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Salt Fork State Park offers abundant wildlife viewing opportunities during morning and evening hours. "Just driving in saw turkeys and 'turkets' and two 6 point bucks. You can hike, swim, boat, bike and horseback ride," reports Shelly S.
What campers like
Free camping options: Fernwood State Forest offers no-cost camping with basic amenities. "All paved sites with picnic tables. Most have fire rings. All free but you must fill out a registration card. There are pit toilets and a water pump. The ranger comes by everyday to collect registration cards," explains Karen W. about Hidden Hollow Campground.
Dog-friendly facilities: Some parks feature dedicated areas for four-legged companions. "Dog park!! and right on the lake!! Found this by mistake on our way out, and the dogs loved it. Access to lake, a beach, well fenced," says Staci R. about Salt Fork State Park Campground.
Flat campsites for tents: Several campgrounds offer level tent sites. "Parking for regular cars is 100 yards before restroom (the others are for horse trailers only). Close to the restroom there's a picnic table, tentspots and a manual water pump," shares Annika E. about Kinderhook Horse Trail.
What you should know
Limited water availability: Many equestrian-focused campgrounds have restricted water access. "Only water full up towers only have those spigots that are not threaded. Had to hold hose over spigot about 20 min to fill 35 gal. We were later told by staff the maintenance building had a threaded spigot," warns Eddie about Jefferson Lake State Park Campground.
Varying bathroom facilities: Toilet facilities differ significantly between campgrounds. "The pit toilets in the restroom are 'fragrant' when you enter the women's side of the building but not so terribly that they can't be used. My friend did gag upon entering the men's room," cautions Danielle S.
Trail conditions: Trail maintenance varies seasonally. "The Kinderhook trail was overgrown. The Paw Paw trail on the other hand was very smooth, dry and wide. The trail leads to the top of the hill," reports Annika E.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection matters: Choose sites carefully when camping with children. "You need to be careful when booking, especially if you are trying to pitch a tent, as some sites are quite sloped. Our site was huge and right next to the water spigot," recommends Kimberly from Kinderhook Trailhead.
Pack insect protection: Bugs can be abundant in wooded areas. "A lot of insects, humid and dense deciduous forest surrounding the trailhead," notes Annika E. about Kinderhook Horse Trail.
Recreation options: Many parks offer additional activities beyond horseback riding. "Trails that lead along shore line to old stone house built in early days of Ohio. Caves to be explored that are easy to access. Boating, fishing, hunting, swimming," reports JH T.
Tips from RVers
Extension cord requirements: Electric hookups at horse campgrounds may require additional equipment. "Only 2 electric eq sites. Electric is a little far behind pad. We almost needed extension cord," notes Eddie about Jefferson Lake State Park Campground.
Campsite leveling: RVers should be prepared for uneven terrain. "Sites with trees for tree tents is minimal. Drinking fountains are dispersed fairly frequently throughout campground, but RV hookups with water were limited during my stay," advises Staci R.
Seasonal planning: Consider visiting equestrian campgrounds during shoulder seasons. "Perfect for our little Scamp trailer. Only 5 big electric sites, no showers or potable water. As a result it was so peaceful! We loved our rainy stay," shares Teri A. about Jefferson Lake State Park.
