Equestrian campgrounds near Blue Ridge Parkway provide direct trail access for visitors with horses. Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains at elevations between 2,500-3,500 feet, these specialized sites offer seasonal camping options from April through December. Facilities vary from primitive sites with basic amenities to group sites with water hookups and waste disposal options for longer stays.
What to do
Trail riding from camp: Fox Creek Horse Camp provides direct access to the Virginia Highlands Horse Trail network. "With a wide network of multi-use trails in this area, Fox Creek Horse Camp provides a nice base for exploring on horseback," notes Jean C., who appreciated the convenient trail connections without needing to trailer horses to trailheads.
Visit wild ponies: At Chestnut Hollow Horse Campground, campers can see wild ponies in their natural habitat. Kelly C. reports, "Saw a Family of black bear about a mile from camp then a bobcat in camp later that day! Great facilities and located very close to Wilbur ridge where the wild ponies are!"
Fishing opportunities: Julian Price Park Campground offers lake fishing for visitors. The lake is hatchery supported, with visitors reporting catches during their stays. "The lake is hatchery supported, and I did witness someone catching a fish as we walked along the lake trail," shares Myron C.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: Equestrian campers report frequent wildlife encounters. "Bobcats, Black Bear, & Wild Horses" are what Kelly C. found at Chestnut Hollow, adding, "We camped at an equestrian campgrounds, chestnut ridge perhaps? Saw a Family of black bear about a mile from camp then a bobcat in camp later that day!"
Water features: Basin Cove Campground offers creekside camping for those who enjoy water sounds while sleeping. "Campsite is right next to the creek—fun to hear the water at night. Stars are amazing!" says Hollz, who found this primitive camping spot ideal for nature immersion.
Trail connectivity: Old Virginia Group Horse Camp connects to extensive trail networks. Jean C. notes, "There are a number of horse trails that connect, starting with the Virginia Highlands Horse Trail nearby, so you don't need to trailer your horses to get to the trailhead."
What you should know
Varying amenities: Horse campgrounds range from primitive to moderately equipped. At Fox Creek, "Sites have a gravel/grass pads, picnic table, and fire ring. Portable toilets available. Bring your own water. No hookups provided. Hitching posts at sites. Manure collection available," according to Jean C.
Reservation requirements: Old Virginia Group Horse Camp requires advance booking for groups. "This is a group equestrian camp that can be reserved via Recreation.gov for $50/night for up to 25 people," explains Jean C., noting it accommodates "up to 25 horses" with space for multiple trailers.
Water planning: Most equestrian sites have limited water sources. At Old Virginia Group Horse Camp, "There is no potable water available, so plan to bring your own. There is a stream at the site where the horses may drink," advises Jean C.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Stone Mountain State Park Campground offers family-oriented activities beyond horseback riding. "Great campground! It is about a 15 minute drive to 3 great wineries and walkable to the trail head for the Stone Mountain loop. Great amenities, and everything was very clean," notes Kristin F.
Wildlife education: Chestnut Hollow provides opportunities to see wild ponies, but requires appropriate supervision. Scott B. advises, "The ponies are great, they're come right up to you and check you out," but also warns, "PS tons of pony poop everywhere. I would imagine it would be a real bummer if you step in it. Avoid at all costs."
Weather preparedness: Mountain conditions can change rapidly, especially at higher elevations. "This place is by far the windiest place I've ever camped in. We couldn't get a proper fire started due to the wind!" shares Scott B. about Chestnut Hollow, adding, "The windchill was a serious issue for some in our group so bring lots of layers and gloves."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: When booking at equestrian campgrounds, check site specifications carefully. Jean C. reports that at Fox Creek Horse Camp, "Sites have a gravel/grass pads," which may present leveling challenges for some RVs.
Service limitations: Sandy Creek Family Campground near Stone Mountain has some RV hookups but inconsistent electrical service. "Extended family was staying in an RV site while we were there and they had some problems with their power staying on," notes Kirsten J.
Dump station access: Plan for waste management if staying at equestrian sites. Becca C. found at Sandy Creek that "the biggest negative I would say was the dump station. It was on the hill so you had to back up to it and it wasn't easy location to do so."
