Equestrian camping near Christiansburg, Virginia offers direct access to numerous trail systems throughout the Blue Ridge Mountains. Most horse camps in the region sit between 2,000-3,000 feet elevation, with moderate summer temperatures typically ranging from 60-85°F. Trail networks often connect multiple camps, allowing for extended riding experiences through diverse terrain with both wooded and open meadow sections.
What to do
Trail riding at varying difficulty levels: At Fairy Stone State Park Campground, riders can access trails with different challenge levels. "The park has great trails around it, they can be pretty challenging when it comes to elevation gain," notes Keith F., who stayed there with horses.
Fairy stone hunting: Take a break from riding to search for the region's unique staurolite crystals. "The place to find the Fairy Stones are outside of the park, down the street a little bit beside a gas station. It was tricky knowing exactly what to look for, but once we found a few Fairy Stones, they were everywhere!" shares Katie M.
Water activities for riders and horses: After trail riding, cool off in designated swimming areas. "Kayaking was fun," says Bonnie T. about Fairy Stone State Park, while another visitor notes the "beautiful lake for swimming" that provides refreshment after hot trail rides.
Explore mountain biking trails: At Don's Cab-Inns Campground, equestrians can alternate between riding and cycling. "Within Explore Park, you can hike, mountain bike, take a trail ride on horseback, paddle the Roanoke River, go tubing, pitch a tent, embark on an aerial adventure course, and more," explains reviewer Tara S.
What campers like
Clean facilities for humans and horses: Riders appreciate well-maintained amenities after long trail days. At Mash Fork Campground, campers praise the cleanliness: "Showers were the best of any campground I've seen- water gets as hot as you'd like, with great water pressure and plenty of hooks and towel racks," reports Nicole M.
Secluded sites with natural sounds: Trail riders value peaceful camps after active days. "This park is quiet, secluded and has plenty of trails to hike! The site I use exclusively has a river running behind it and the sounds lull you to sleep any time of day!" shares Jim P. about Mash Fork Campground.
Ranger programs and guided activities: When not trail riding, educational options enhance the experience. "We loved all the ranger programs, especially finding all the fairy stones," explains Bonnie T. about Fairy Stone State Park.
Proximity to multiple trail networks: Campers value locations with various riding options. "This campground was very nice and very clean. The staff was awesome. The falls are easily accessible and were beautiful even without an abundance of water," notes Dawn M. about trail access from Mash Fork Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal operating dates: Horse camps have specific seasons. Hussy Mountain Horse Camp operates from April 1 to November 30, while some facilities maintain year-round access. "Winter camping - One of the few campgrounds open during the winter with facilities," notes Stephen D. about Don's Cab-Inns.
Trail conditions vary significantly: Recent weather impacts trail quality. "Trail conditions got soft and muddy after the previous night's deluge through the more heavily wooded areas, once the trail was exposed to constant sun, it dried quickly," reports Dave V. about trails at Greenbrier River Trail Campsite.
Water access is inconsistent: Not all horse camps maintain reliable water sources. "Hand pump well water was inoperable during our late June 2020 visit," notes Dave V. about primitive facilities along trail networks.
Cell service limitations: Many equestrian camps have minimal connectivity. "No service for Verizon users… Sites have wifi but I could only get it to work 20% of the time," reports Nicole M. about Mash Fork Campground's limited communications.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with diverse activities: Select camps that offer options beyond riding. "Perfect places for families. We loved all the ranger programs, especially finding all the fairy stones. Kayaking was fun," recommends Bonnie T. about Fairy Stone State Park.
Look for playgrounds and child-friendly trails: Family-oriented facilities enhance the experience. "The park is big and there is lots to do! There is a beautiful lake for swimming. Tons of hiking trails. They had a great playground for the kids nearby," notes Katie M.
Consider cabins for mixed-age groups: Alternative accommodations work well with horses. "Spending a week by the lake was one of the best experiences here. Lots of adventures to explore including hunting Fairystones, swimming, boating, fishing," shares Shon P., while another reviewer enjoyed staying "in a 1 bed efficiency CCC Cabin at Fairy Stone State Park" alongside their equestrian activities.
Plan for weather variability: Mountain elevations create unpredictable conditions. "We camped at site #5 this time - at the top of the hill because the sky was rather ominous. We had a bit of daylight and decided NOT to set up because the sky looked looming," advises Kirsten J.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Horse trailer parking areas vary in quality. "The sites are a little rough but easy to level your rig," explains Keith F. about Fairy Stone State Park's trailer accommodations.
Select sites away from busy areas: Choose camping spots away from central areas. "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," advises Nicole M. about Mash Fork Campground.
Verify hookup availability: Not all equestrian sites provide equal amenities. "All camper pads are paved, have a generous camper pad length, and most are spread a decent amount of space apart," notes Lee D. about Mash Fork Campground, while also mentioning the "mix of 30-amp, 30-amp with water, 50-amp with water and electric, and FHU sites" for trailers with living quarters.
