Douthat State Park Campground encompasses multiple camping areas across its grounds, with Beaver Dam Campground designed specifically for equestrian needs. The region sits within Virginia's Allegheny Mountains at elevations ranging from 1,400 to 2,400 feet. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing while summer daytime temperatures average 75-85°F with cooler evenings around 60°F.
What to do
Trail riding with horses: Beaver Dam Campground at Douthat State Park provides access to extensive trail systems. "Plenty of off grid seclusion! It's a nice scenic drive getting to the park on a quiet and well maintained back road," notes John R. Riders can access various difficulty levels suitable for different experience levels.
Fishing opportunities: Lake Moomaw at Bolar Mountain Recreation Area offers excellent fishing. "Camped at Douthat State Park. Great area for swimming, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, boating, etc. Nice Lake Moomaw views," shares one visitor. Daily fishing permits cost $8, and the lake is stocked with rainbow trout seasonally.
Mountain biking: The trail network throughout the region offers diverse terrain for cyclists. "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!" explains Robyn S.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently praise the maintenance standards. "The facilities, overall, were well maintained and clean. Firewood is for sale for $6 per bundle," reports Jeremy W. from Douthat State Park. This attention to cleanliness extends to bathroom facilities across multiple campgrounds.
Privacy between sites: At Fairy Stone State Park Campground, campsites offer good separation. "Great place to stay due to clean facilities and well kept sites. The lake is perfect for little ones and even grownup kids," says Ryan Z. The layout provides enough space without feeling isolated.
Off-season availability: Winter camping offers unique experiences with fewer crowds. "One of the few campgrounds open during the winter with facilities," notes Stephen D. about Don's Cab-Inns. Off-season visitors enjoy more solitude while still having access to necessary amenities.
What you should know
Terrain variations: Campsites across the region have different elevations and layouts. "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," advises Jeremy W.
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "Most camping areas require reservations, especially during peak seasons," particularly for equestrian camping sites near Blue Ridge. Don's Cab-Inns Campground offers online booking with code access to facilities: "Both the bathrooms/showers and cabin are push code to get into. This makes it so easy and convenient. You don't need to worry about losing a key," explains Mel T.
Limited cell service: Prepare for disconnection in many areas. "No Verizon service or WiFi. We go here to get away," reports Keith F. about Fairy Stone State Park. Download maps and information before arrival.
Tips for camping with families
Lake swimming options: Greenbrier River Trail offers swimming spots along with camping. "Great Swimming Rock Trail South," notes Dave V., though remember that at many parks "swimming is only allowed in the Beach area."
Educational opportunities: Ranger programs provide family-friendly activities. "The programming was also amazing for our eight and four-year old boys. Ranger Lexie hunted legendary fairystones with our kids and they haven't stopped talking about the magic of the hunt!" shares Russell C.
Wildlife viewing: The region offers opportunities to spot native animals. "We rode out about 15 miles and back, saw a black bear," reports Robyn S. Properly storing food remains essential due to wildlife presence.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: When choosing equestrian camping near Blue Ridge, Virginia, campground layout matters. "We staying in Whispering Pines campground which was actually a few miles how the road from the heart of the park. Nice large level stone lots, nice bathrooms and private showers, very clean," explains Robyn S.
Hookup availability: CB Ranch offers rustic options with basic amenities. "The cabin was decorated very nicely and was clean and the bed was very comfy also. The farm is 4 miles from a quaint small town with shops and great restaurants," reports Cheryl B. For those needing full hookups, Douthat State Park provides electric, water, and sewer connections at designated sites.
Weather preparation: Pack for variable mountain weather. "In late June 2020, weather along The Greenbrier River Trail was cooler, with late afternoon/early evening rain showers," notes Dave V., highlighting the importance of rain gear even in summer months.
Ranger
