Chestnut Hollow Horse Campground, near Grayson Highlands State Park, is a fantastic spot for those who love the great outdoors and have a soft spot for horses. This campground is designed with equestrians in mind, featuring easy access to a network of trails that stretch up to 66 miles, perfect for riding and exploring the stunning scenery.

The facilities here are solid, with clean bathrooms, showers, and even laundry options. Campers appreciate the spacious, gravel sites that come with water and electric hookups, making it a comfortable place to settle in after a day of adventure. As one visitor put it, “The ponies were awesome and the hike was even better,” highlighting the unique wildlife experience you can have right at your doorstep.

If you’re into hiking, you’ll find the Appalachian Trail is just a stone's throw away, offering breathtaking views and access to beautiful waterfall hikes. Plus, the campground is known for its wild ponies, which can often be seen roaming around, adding a special touch to your camping experience. Just remember to keep your distance and respect their space!

With a mix of activities and a friendly atmosphere, Chestnut Hollow is a great choice for anyone looking to enjoy nature, whether you’re camping with friends or planning a family getaway.

Chestnut Hollow Horse Campground — Grayson Highlands State Park

Whitetop is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Whitetop, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Virginia camping adventure.

Whitetop

The Best Camping Near Whitetop, Virginia

Wild ponies, endless blueberries, spectacular view of wildflowers make this on of my go to spots to introduce someone to backpacking. 

Great in all seasons!

This place is by far the windiest place I've ever camped in. We couldn't get a proper fire started due to the wind! It was blowing up all over the trails at some points! But it's all worth it. The views are amazing! The ponies are great, they're come right up to you and check you out. There isn't many places to get water so come prepared with enough. The windchill was a serious issue for some in our group so bring lots of layers and gloves. I'll be going back, hopefully when it's a little warmer!

PS tons of pony poop everywhere. I would imagine it would be a real bummer if you step in it. Avoid at all costs.

Come prepared 

I've been here in each season, my favorites being fall and winter. There's a cool large festival in the fall with tons of local vendors and the best apple butter any where. In the winter, it is definitely COLD but absolutely stunning with snow falling. There are 96 campsites available, some with hookups and some without.

The Appalachian Trail can be easily accessed here and there are several backcountry camping options along the trail. Sites in the main park area have gravel pads, picnic tables, fire rings and some have posts for lanterns as well.

As other photos suggest, there are wild ponies here (notice the adjective wild) that are not intimidated by people. Do everyone a favor and keep your distance, please. I experienced a negative interaction with the ponies here that resulted in several backpacks being chewed to bits. The photos of the ponies posted in this review were taken with a zoom lens. This is their home and they should be respected and treated just as you would a bear.

Excellent 4 Seasons Camping

Couldnt have asked for a better birthday gift. The ponies were awesome and the hike was even better. We stayed on the campgrounds at night and we were able to watch a beautiful sunrise while making breakfast. Definitely have plans to go back in the near future.

Love Love Love.

Lot s of wildlife! We camped at an equestrian campgrounds, chestnut ridge perhaps? Saw a Family of black bear about a mile from camp then a bobcat in camp later that day! Great facilities and located very close to Wilbur ridge where the wild ponies are! The AT is very close and waterfall hikes can be accessed from camp.also lots of great bouldering in the area

Bobcats, Black Bear, & Wild Horses 

This equestrian campground in a beautiful state forest allows for other campers to make reservations no more than 30 days in advance; priority is for campers with horses. This state park has wild horses of its own, but has numerous multi-use and equestrian trails and connects with additional trails in the area for up to 66 miles of riding. Chestnut Hollow is distinct from the Hickory Ridge campground.

The campsites are back-in along a single spur with turn-around at the end. There are  bathrooms with showers and a sink for laundry. Fees are $20-23/night, slightly higher for out of state campers. 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.

Site are long, gravel, relatively level with water/electric.

Photos of Chestnut Hollow Horse Campground — Grayson Highlands State Park

Real photos from real campers