3 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
James River State Park Campground offers equestrian camping with horse-friendly accommodations near Altavista, Virginia. The park features trail access directly connecting riders to bridle paths throughout the property. Horse owners can choose from dedicated equestrian sites in the Red Oak Campground area where larger sites accommodate both camping equipment and horse trailers. Camping options include tent sites, RV spots with electric hookups, and cabin rentals. The park maintains well-marked trails specifically designed for horseback riding with water access points along routes. Bathrooms and shower facilities remain clean and well-maintained for campers returning from trail rides.
The park's extensive trail system provides varied terrain suitable for riders of all experience levels. Trails connect to the James River with multiple river access points for horses to cool off during warm weather rides. Sites are generously sized and level, important for equestrian campers with trailers and gear. The campground provides drinking water, fire rings, and picnic tables at each site. Visitors note the park's dark sky designation makes for exceptional stargazing after evening trail rides. The equestrian campground includes facilities designed specifically for horse owners while maintaining a natural setting. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak seasons when equestrian sites fill quickly with weekend riders.
"There is an equestrian camping area (and stalls) for people with horses. The cabins and lodges have 2, 3, and 6 bedrooms and look beautiful. There is even a canoe-in campground. "
"Lots of beautiful hiking/biking/equestrian trails to explore. Bathrooms were very clean and nice. Bundles of firewood sold $7 each. Nice fire ring at each site. Pet friendly."
from $37 - $98 / night
Check Availability"The hiking trails are also do horses and parts have been beaten down and there was a lot of horse poop in the trail. Still worth the hike to see the peaceful water though."
"We camped here again at Staunton River State Park, this time we stayed in site 21, which is an electric site near the bathrooms/showers and one of the best for viewing stars."
from $27 - $121 / night
Check Availability"Very nice place to walk and lots of sight seeing close by and shor t walk or drive to the water"
"One mile walk to Buffalo park a beautiful place with lots of history. I love it .Great day for a picnic ."
from $22 - $53 / night
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ScoutVery clean and quiet. Good services, including firewood availability. Drawback is that it’s 7.5 miles down a dead end road. Closet gas is at least 10 miles and groceries are a half hour away. Go prepared.
RangerI've read reviews about noise levels and lack of privacy. But we experienced the opposite, at least at our campsite.
GuideWe stayed here Memorial weekend 2026. We had a tent only site with no hook ups. It was site 48 which is the first site you come across when pulling into the campgrounds.
Site was built into a hill and had several steps leading up to it. Much smaller site than we are used to at VA State parks. Looking at the other sites they were also on the smaller side and oddly shaped.
Easy access to the River Bank trail and Captain Staunton trail directly from the campsites. Great when you have kiddos that don't want to walk a ton.
Great views throughout of the Staunton River & Dan River. Lots of deer sightings in the morning and early evenings. Great activities with the rangers including a wagon wide through the park.
It was rainy during our stay so no chance to take advantage of the Dark Sky classification. When skys are clear they do have an astronomer that comes out on the weekends in the summer.
RangerThis campground is one of our stops coming from VT or going back home - would love to spend more time then just passing through
LegendLots of trails, 2 boat launches and nice campground. We stay here every once in a while since it is so close and such a amazing state park.
Check out our video of all the sites.
https://youtu.be/g3tsJATaSis?si=3Cl29wwqTO1JF9FW
ScoutNice campground in line with expectations for most Virginia state parks. Verizon service is spotty 1 to 2 bars and unreliable data but with a directional cell booster we are able to get enough signal for our Verizon Jetpack to work
ScoutHe never responded to the reservation request or my email. Dont waste your time, find somewhere else.
GuideThis is a real gem in the woods . I have no idea why it is listed as closed when it is open and very nice. Call them to book a site as the apps will not let u
RangerThe campground needs some updating- there’s only one bathhouse with just 2 showers- if the campground would’ve been full, it would’ve been miserable. Also only one dumpster and it’s on the way out of the campground. BUT it’s a designated dark sky park & the stars were amazing. They also lend out telescopes. They also have nice walking trails & if you like to paddle, the river is nice & flat. There is little to no cell service.
Red Oak Campground at James River State Park offers equestrian camping near Altavista, Virginia in the scenic Piedmont region. The park sits on rolling terrain with elevation changes between 600-1,000 feet, creating varied riding experiences through woodland and open meadows. The region experiences moderate temperatures year-round with seasonal changes that affect trail conditions, typically wettest in spring and driest in late summer.
Stargazing opportunities: James River State Park received International Dark Sky Park designation, offering exceptional night sky viewing for campers. "The park is part of the Dark Sky Parks Association and if you are into astronomy and stars this is the place to stay," notes Bridget H. about Red Oak Campground.
River access activities: Take advantage of multiple entry points to the James River for water activities. "The River is absolutely clean, crystal clear water and never crowded. Both of my trips were during the summer and over a weekend and we seldom came across others," shares Conni B. about her experience at Red Oak Campground.
Educational programs: Ranger-led activities enhance the camping experience at Staunton River State Park. "Park rangers had great kids programs including animal feeding frenzy where we learned about snakes and turtles... Also lots of any pelts to learn about," explains Katie.
Level, spacious campsites: Sites at Red Oak accommodate larger trailers and equipment needed for horse camping. "The sites are generously sized and flat," mentions Conni B., while Kaylee S. adds: "We enjoyed that large bathhouses and the large tentpad spots!"
Proximity to trails: Don's Cab-Inns Campground provides easy access to multiple trail systems. "You can hike, mountain bike, take a trail ride on horseback, paddle the Roanoke River, go tubing, pitch a tent, embark on an aerial adventure course, and more," notes Tara S.
Private campsites: Many equestrian campers appreciate the spacing between sites. At James River State Park Campground, "The campsites were well spaced apart," according to Virginia G., who stayed at the primitive campground area.
Seasonal considerations: Winter camping options are limited but available. "One of the few campgrounds open during the winter with facilities," mentions Stephen D. about Callahan's Hideaway.
Cell service limitations: Remote locations mean connectivity can be challenging. "Verizon service is spotty 1 to 2 bars and unreliable data but with a directional cell booster we are able to get enough signal for our Verizon Jetpack to work," reports Micah B. about Red Oak Campground.
Reservation requirements: Equestrian sites fill quickly during peak riding seasons, especially weekends. "Campground is very new and bath facilities are immaculate. No shade at sites (hot July day)," warns Ross P. about Don's Cab-Inns Campground.
Cabin options: For families new to equestrian camping, cabins provide comfort while still accessing trails. "We rented a cabin with fantastic sunset views. This park has great walking and equine trails, a fantastic visitor center, and a wonderful outdoor park/adventure zone for the kiddos," shares Jamie B. about Red Oak Campground.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Altavista, VA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Altavista, VA is Red Oak Campground — James River State Park with a 4.6-star rating from 19 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Altavista, VA?
TheDyrt.com has all 3 equestrian camping locations near Altavista, VA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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