Equestrian camping options near Blacksburg, Virginia sit among the Blue Ridge Mountains with elevations ranging from 1,800 to 3,500 feet. The area's forested terrain contains over 700 miles of trails suitable for horses, with several designated equestrian campgrounds providing corrals and mounting areas. Trail conditions vary seasonally with spring bringing muddy patches and fall offering drier, well-maintained paths.
What to do
Waterfall hikes: 1-4 miles from camp sites. At Camp Creek State Park, trails lead to accessible waterfalls. "The waterfalls are easily accessible. Did notice people leaving trash and clothing around them. Garbage cans are all over but people just don't care," notes Fred R. The waterfalls remain popular even during drier seasons.
Rock hunting: Search for unique mineral formations. Fairy Stone State Park offers the chance to find unusual cross-shaped minerals. "We learned about the mysterious 'Fairy Stones' and went to the hunt site to see for ourselves. Sure enough - we found several fairy stones and the kids were very happy!" reports Kirsten J. The hunting area is located outside the park near a gas station.
Trail riding: Access forest paths directly from camp. The Collins Cove Horse Campground provides direct trail access with appropriate terrain for horses. Trail difficulty varies throughout George Washington & Jefferson National Forest, with water crossings available on several routes for cooling horses during summer rides.
What campers like
Quiet hours: Enforced rest periods benefit early risers. At Double C Horse and Rider Campground, equestrians appreciate the ability to prepare for morning trail rides without disturbances. Camp Creek State Park manages both specialized equestrian areas and standard campgrounds with consistent rule enforcement.
Trail variety: Options for different experience levels. The Greenbrier River Trail offers routes suitable for beginners and experienced riders. "Several mall cascades lined the West side of the trail, which is ordinarily the side cut from the mountain for the railway," explains Dave V. at Greenbrier River Trail Mile Post 9.5 Primitive Campsite.
Clean facilities: Maintained amenities even at rustic sites. Campers consistently mention well-kept facilities. "The bathrooms and showers were fine and in close walking distance. They could probably use some updating but didn't have any major issues with them," shares Nicole M. about Mash Fork Campground. Many equestrian sites include simple but functional toilets and water access points.
What you should know
Weather preparation: Significant seasonal variation. The mountains around Blacksburg experience temperature swings from 30°F to 80°F depending on season. "It poured - for hours - but our site stayed dry for the most part. The tent pads at this campground are excellent and drain well," reports Kirsten J.
Trail conditions: Plan for potential mud or debris. After heavy rains, some trails become challenging. "Blow-down did slow us down a few times... This campsite area is a relocation of one destroyed by the heavy rains and buried by landslide of 2016," notes Dave V. about Greenbrier River Trail.
Limited cell service: Prepare for disconnection. Many horse campgrounds have minimal or no cellular connectivity. "There is no cell service or internet/wifi at the cabins though so come prepared with something to do! We found it to be very relaxing to unplug!" says Katie M. about Fairy Stone State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Pack extra bug repellent: Higher insect activity in wooded areas. "We would definitely be back to this site - but I recommend stronger bug spray. We all left with more bites that we usually do camping!" advises Kirsten J. after staying at Fairy Stone State Park.
Consider private campgrounds for added amenities. Don's Cab-Inns Campground offers options for families not comfortable with primitive camping. "Our family loved this campground! It is close to Roanoke and it is off the Blue Ridge Parkway. It is located in Explore Park. This park is growing by leaps and bounds," shares Bridget H.
Plan for wet weather alternatives. The region receives significant rainfall, particularly in spring and summer. "We had a bit of daylight and decided NOT to set up because the sky looked looming... we hung out at a shelter near the yurts. The shelter was fantastic!" explains Kirsten J. about waiting out a storm at Fairy Stone State Park.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookups at horse campgrounds: Bring alternatives. Most dedicated equestrian sites offer minimal amenities for RVs. "There are 4 Yurts to choose from. Two of them (Yurts#1 & 2) do not have a parking spot right in front of them, they are a short walk from a parking area," notes Katie M.
Consider general campgrounds nearby. If traveling with horses and RVs, consider using companion campgrounds. "Campground is well maintained. Many trees along edge of the campground but not very many in the center, so the sites on the outer loop have more shade if that's what you're looking for," recommends Nicole M. about Mash Fork Campground near Double C Horse and Rider Campground.
Leveling challenges at some sites. "Most of the sites are not level and it felt very crowded," warns Jacqueline F. about Fairy Stone State Park. RVers should bring adequate leveling equipment when visiting horse campgrounds in this mountainous region.
