James River State Park offers dedicated equestrian camping facilities near Big Island, Virginia. The park encompasses over 3,000 acres along the James River, sitting at approximately 820 feet elevation with terrain varying from wooded highlands to river bottomlands. The equestrian area features a separate campground with stalls specifically designed for horse owners, allowing direct trail access during spring through fall seasons.
What to do
Stargazing opportunities: James River State Park holds International Dark Sky Park certification, providing exceptional night sky viewing. "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.
Kayaking and river activities: Access the James River directly from several points within the park. "The best part of both trips was the River. 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 their experience at Red Oak Campground.
Mountain biking trails: Several campgrounds near Big Island offer dedicated biking paths through varied terrain. "Fun trails to go ride around on your bike all day," mentions Jonny D. about his stay at Douthat State Park.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campers appreciate the well-designed layout in the equestrian areas. "The sites are generously sized and flat," reports Conni B. from Red Oak Campground, while Nicole R. from Bolar Mountain Recreation Area adds "The campsite was spacious and shaded, they do offer doubles for larger groups."
Water access: Many sites offer direct water access beyond the equestrian areas. "Our site was across the road from the lake but there was a trail that lead to the water. The water was beautiful, temperature perfect for swimming," shares Joanna G. about Bolar Mountain Recreation Area.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in this region maintain high standards for restrooms and common areas. "Bathrooms were the cleanest I've ever seen at any campground and were a very short, convenient walk from our site!" according to Joanna G. who visited Bolar Mountain.
What you should know
Reservation options: While many sites can be reserved online, others operate on first-come, first-served basis. "We reserved a primitive site online via recreation.gov (despite the fact that many sites are unreservable and are instead first come, first serve)," explains Joanna G. from Bolar Mountain Recreation Area.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds in the region. "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," advises Micah B. from Red Oak Campground.
Water access types: Different campgrounds offer varying water access points. At James River State Park Campground, "A Creek ran nearby the campground and there were options for trails," according to VIRGINIA G., while other locations feature lake or river frontage.
Tips for camping with families
Educational programs: Rangers often conduct family-friendly activities throughout the season. "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. from Don's Cab-Inns Campground.
Kid-friendly amenities: Several parks offer dedicated play areas and youth activities. "The park has a playground, marshland, and it is right on the James River with multiple river access points. The rangers here are very interactive and very helpful," notes Bridget H. about Don's Cab-Inns.
Family site selection: Choose sites that balance privacy with convenience. "We camped here with our new born daughter and son, with that being said the campground was very quiet and accommodated our family very well! We enjoyed that large bathhouses and the large tentpad spots!" recommends Kaylee S. about her stay at Red Oak Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: Pay attention to elevation changes when selecting sites. "White Oak Campground is larger, wooded, and has a significant elevation change between different sites. Caution should be used with large rigs as the low-water bridge to White Oak has steep approach and departure angles," warns Jeremy W. from Douthat State Park.
Hookup availability: Electric and water access varies by campground and loop. "All types of sites and hookups plus cabins," mentions Cathy L. about Douthat State Park, while Terry F. from Don's Cab-Inns Campground notes "All new facilities and only $25 a night. electric on the site, water and dump station located nearby."
Seasonal considerations: Not all facilities remain open year-round. "One of the few campgrounds open during the winter with facilities," mentions Stephen D. about Don's Cab-Inns Campground, making it a valuable option for off-season horse camping near Big Island.
