Horse campgrounds near Amherst, Virginia offer varied terrain for trail riding at elevations between 500-1000 feet above sea level. The Cumberland State Forest and George Washington National Forest provide additional riding opportunities within 45 minutes of James River State Park. Winter temperatures average 35-45°F with summer highs reaching 85-95°F, making spring and fall the most comfortable riding seasons.
What to do
Stargazing opportunities: James River State Park has been designated an International Dark Sky Park with minimal light pollution. "This is a wonderful spot for viewing the stars because of the lack of light pollution. James River State Park has been named an International Dark Sky Park," notes Daryl L. about Red Oak Campground.
Fishing access: Bear Creek Lake State Park offers 40 acres of lake fishing with catfish, bass, and stocked trout. "Fishing was not bad. Caught my first ever catfish," shares Ross B. about Bear Creek Lake State Park Campground.
Mountain biking: Douthat State Park provides technical riding trails with significant elevation changes. "We did a decent amount of biking here, the main road is nice for road biking, we rode out about 15 miles and back, saw a black bear. Beautiful country roads. And the trails are great for mountain biking. Bring your legs, lots of climbing!" says Robyn S. about the park.
What campers like
Lake access from sites: Several campsites at Bear Creek Lake offer direct water views and access. "We chose a reservable waterview site (#18) and I'm glad we got the one we did! It is not directly on the water, there is a fence around the site and then a short walk to the water," notes Katie M. about Douthat State Park Campground.
Cabin accommodations: For those seeking equestrian-friendly lodging without tent camping, cabins provide comfortable alternatives. "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 their stay at Red Oak Campground.
Shaded sites: Most equestrian campgrounds in the area feature mature tree coverage. "It's an older state park with mature shade trees but well maintained. The bathhouse is kept very clean," explains Erica M. about Bear Creek Lake State Park.
What you should know
Tent pad materials: Some tent sites use alternative ground covers. "The tent pads are filled with shredded tires instead of gravel or dirt, which provides a little extra cushion, but can be uncomfortable on bare feet," notes Stephanie J. about Bear Creek Lake State Park.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly at equestrian campgrounds near Amherst. "Nice 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," shares Micah B. about Red Oak Campground.
Seasonal considerations: Central Virginia experiences high humidity in summer months. "Cumberland County is only at 455' elevation, so the heat and humidity in the summer is intense—we were very uncomfortable our first night because of this, so fall would probably be the best time to go as it is when central Virginia has the best weather," advises Stephanie J.
Tips for camping with families
Lake swimming areas: Bear Creek Lake has designated swimming beaches with shallow sections. "There is a great swimming area with a little kids area that was so fun! We did a hike around the whole lake, lots of great views," writes Katie M. about their experience.
Educational programs: Many state parks offer ranger-led activities for children. "We enjoyed a fire making class followed by s'mores on Friday night and then an owl searching hike on Saturday night," shares Bridget H. about Don's Cab-Inns Campground.
Poison ivy awareness: Watch for poison ivy along trails and at campsites. "Just worth a mention that my kids came back with poison ivy everywhere, so watch out for that!" warns Katie M. about Bear Creek Lake State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Some equestrian campgrounds have RV length limitations. "Limit on RV length to 35 feet. This includes tow vehicle and trailer," cautions Erica M. about Bear Creek Lake State Park.
Bridge access challenges: Approach angles can be difficult at some campground entrances. "Caution should be used with large rigs as the low-water bridge to White Oak has steep approach and departure angles," warns Jeremy W. about James River State Park Campground.
Campground layout considerations: Some loops are better suited for larger vehicles. "Whispering Pines is a few miles away along the entry road and has a different character. It's a very flat and wide-open campground perfect for big RVs with much larger sites," suggests Jeremy W. about Douthat State Park.
