Horseback riding opportunities draw equestrian campers to the area surrounding Bent Mountain, Virginia. Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains at approximately 3,000 feet elevation, this region experiences cooler summer temperatures than surrounding lowlands. Winter camping is limited with several campgrounds closing seasonally, though Fairy Stone State Park maintains year-round operations.
What to do
Fairy stone hunting: Visit the designated hunting area near Fairy Stone State Park Campground to search for cross-shaped mineral formations. "We hunted and found fairy stones which made the trip that much more fun," writes Bridget H., who stayed in a yurt at the park.
Mountain biking: Access trails directly from campgrounds or explore nearby systems. "Explore Park has mountain bike trails, a cool vintage village, access to the Roanoke River, an aerial obstacle course, and more cool stuff," notes Bridget H. about Don's Cab-Inns Campground.
Water activities: Swim, boat, or fish at campground lakes during warmer months. "The lake is perfect for little ones and even grownup kids," reports Ryan Z. about Fairy Stone State Park's swimming area, which offers free access to registered campers.
Hiking: Follow trails ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs with significant elevation changes. Keith F. notes about Fairy Stone, "The park has great trails around it, they can be pretty challenging when it comes to elevation gain."
What campers like
Unplugged atmosphere: Limited cell coverage throughout the area creates a technology-free experience. Keith F. appreciates Fairy Stone State Park for this reason: "No Verizon service or WiFi. We go here to get away."
Equestrian access: The specialized equestrian camp outside Fairy Stone Park gates provides dedicated facilities for horse camping near Bent Mountain. According to Kirsten J., "There is an equestrian camp just outside the park gates" that caters specifically to riders with horses.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathhouses and campsites receive consistent praise. At CB Ranch, Cheryl B. found "the cabin was decorated very nicely and was clean and the bed was very comfy also."
Wildlife viewing: Deer and other wildlife sightings are common throughout area campgrounds. Kirsten J. reports, "We saw lots of deer roaming around" during their Fairy Stone stay.
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Cell service is minimal or non-existent at most campgrounds. Ross P. advises about Don's Cab-Inns: "Bath facilities are immaculate. No shade at sites (hot July day)."
Weather considerations: Summer heat affects campsite comfort, while spring brings frequent rain. Jacqueline F. at Glen Lyn Town Park & Campground mentions challenges with amenities: "The bathrooms and showers were pretty gross and I don't think they were cleaned the 3 days we were there."
Uneven terrain: Many sites require leveling for RVs and careful tent placement. According to Keith F., at Fairy Stone State Park "the sites are a little rough but easy to level your rig."
Reservation options: Fairy Stone uses a mixed reservation system worth understanding before arrival. Kirsten J. explains, "About a year ago, this park became half first come first served and half reservation only. Each site has a yellow or red tag on it - the yellow tags have to be reserved by site number. The red tags can be walk up sites."
Tips for camping with families
Beach access: The swimming areas often include kid-specific sections. Russell C. shares: "They also loved the swimming area, although it was a little disappointing our reservation only earned us a one-day pass - but better planning on our part will make that part smoother when we return!"
Ranger programs: Check schedules for family-friendly activities led by park staff. "Ranger Lexie hunted legendary fairystones with our kids and they haven't stopped talking about the magic of the hunt!" enthuses Russell C. about their Fairy Stone State Park experience.
Alternative accommodations: Consider cabins or yurts for families new to camping. At Don's Cab-Inns Campground, Tara S. found "the little cabins include a full-size bed below and another in the loft, air conditioning, heat, electricity, a microwave, a small refrigerator, and a coffee pot."
Rainy day options: Plan indoor activities or identify covered picnic shelters. Kirsten J. advises, "The shelter was fantastic! It was dry and the kids could play games and we cooked dinner and the dog hung out while we waited for the thunderstorm to pass."
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Bring leveling blocks as most sites feature natural terrain. Keith F. confirms at Fairy Stone State Park: "The sites are a little rough but easy to level your rig."
Dump station access: Check operating hours as some facilities close seasonally. Terry F. notes about Don's Cab-Inns: "All new facilities and only $25 a night. Electric on the site, water and dump station located nearby."
Electrical hookups: Most RV sites offer 30-amp service with limited 50-amp availability. According to Terry F., there are "half a dozen RV spaces and cabin rentals and yurts" at Don's Cab-Inns in Explore Park.
