Equestrian campgrounds near Ceres, Virginia sit within the lush Blue Ridge Mountain region at elevations ranging from 2,000 to 4,000 feet. The area's mixed hardwood forests create seasonal trail experiences, with spring wildflowers giving way to dense summer canopies and vibrant fall colors. Winter camping remains possible at some locations, though water access becomes limited and temperatures regularly drop below freezing.
What to do
Hike to waterfalls: At Camp Creek State Park Mash Fork Campground, several trails lead to waterfalls within walking distance of campsites. "The hiking is difficult in some areas but spectacularly beautiful," notes Julie B., though water flow varies seasonally with some visitors reporting "waterfalls were very sparse" during drier months.
Observe wildlife: The forests surrounding Stone Mountain State Park support diverse wildlife populations. "We camped at RV site 40 and I think it's the best. There's a roaring large creek that flows behind the site and a grassy field full of deer beside it," shares Charli R. Multiple visitors report regular deer sightings, particularly at dawn and dusk.
Connect to trail networks: Most equestrian campgrounds provide direct trail access without needing to trailer horses. "With a wide network of multi-use trails in this area, Fox Creek Horse Camp provides a nice base for exploring on horseback," according to Jean C. Many trails interconnect, creating options for rides ranging from one-hour loops to full-day excursions.
What campers like
Stargazing opportunities: Clear mountain nights provide excellent astronomy conditions. "Beautiful campground, amazing hikes & waterfalls and the best stargazing you could ask for," reports Emily D. about Stone Mountain State Park Campground. Light pollution remains minimal throughout the region.
Stream-side camping: Water features enhance many camping experiences. Fred R. notes that at Camp Creek State Park Mash Fork Campground, some sites back "up to the creek and was quite private with the exception of the trail on the other side of the creek." For primitive camping enthusiasts, Basin Cove offers sites where you can "hear the water at night. Stars are amazing!" according to camper Hollz.
Seasonal variety: Each season offers distinct camping experiences. "I've been here in each season, my favorites being fall and winter. There's a cool large festival in the fall with tons of local vendors and the best apple butter anywhere," shares Sarah C. about Grayson Highlands State Park. Spring brings wildflowers while summer offers full forest canopy.
What you should know
Weather preparedness: Mountain weather changes rapidly, particularly at higher elevations. Scott B. warns about Basin Cove: "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! The windchill was a serious issue for some in our group so bring lots of layers and gloves."
Bathroom facilities vary: Amenities differ significantly between campgrounds. At Fox Creek Horse Camp, only "portable toilets available. Bring your own water." In contrast, Stone Mountain State Park offers heated facilities: "The bathrooms were heated, clean and the men's bathroom had two showers," reports David B.
Wildlife interactions: Wild animals, including the ponies at Grayson Highlands, require respectful distance. Sarah C. cautions: "There are wild ponies here (notice the adjective wild) that are not intimidated by people. Do everyone a favor and keep your distance, please. I experienced a negative interaction with the ponies here that resulted in several backpacks being chewed to bits."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water areas: Many campgrounds feature streams or swimming areas appropriate for children. At Sandy Creek Family Campground, Ann H. reports: "The kids enjoyed playing in the creek and on the playground. The grounds are adjacent to the Stone Mountain State Park."
Playground access: Several campgrounds maintain play equipment. Sandy Creek Family Campground has "both a play set for the kids and a volleyball court," according to Kirsten J., with "lots of shade on a big grassy field" for tent sites along the tree line.
Educational wildlife viewing: Planned wildlife encounters create memorable experiences. Kelly C. shares that at Grayson Highlands: "Lots of wildlife! We camped at an equestrian campgrounds... Saw a family of black bear about a mile from camp then a bobcat in camp later that day!" The wild ponies remain a consistent attraction.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for trailers: When camping with horses, trailer accommodation varies between campgrounds. Jean C. notes that at Chestnut Hollow Horse Campground, "The campsites are back-in along a single spur with turn-around at the end," and "sites are long, gravel, relatively level with water/electric."
Hookup availability: Utility connections differ between equestrian campgrounds. Fox Creek Horse Camp offers no hookups, while Chestnut Hollow provides water and electric. For full hookups, some non-equestrian campgrounds nearby offer alternatives, though you'll need to trailer horses to riding areas.
Dump station quality: Service facilities vary in accessibility. At Sandy Creek Family Campground, Becca C. cautions: "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 an easy location to do so."
