James River State Park offers multiple camping options beyond equestrian facilities in central Virginia. The park sits at 950 feet elevation with campgrounds spread across 1,500 acres of rolling terrain along the James River. Sites range from primitive canoe-in options to full-service RV hookups, with access to over 22 miles of trails through diverse forest habitats.
What to do
Trail riding for beginners: The multi-use trail system at Red Oak Campground — James River State Park accommodates riders of all skill levels. "The park has great walking and equine trails, a fantastic visitor center, and a wonderful outdoor park/adventure zone for the kiddos," notes Jamie B.
Stargazing sessions: Take advantage of the park's Dark Sky designation. "This is a wonderful spot for viewing the stars because of the lack of light pollution. James River State Park has been named an International Dark Sky Park," shares Daryl L. from Red Oak Campground.
River activities: Beyond horseback riding, the park offers water recreation options. "Activities that can be done include tubing on the river, canoeing and kayaking, fishing, hiking, biking, horseback riding trails, wagon ride, and lots of park events," according to a Red Oak camper.
Canoe-in camping: For a more secluded experience, try the canoe-in sites at Powhatan State Park Campground. "There's also a canoe-in site with 8 primitive sites: no water, electricity, or facilities (there's a pit toilet)," explains an experienced camper.
What campers like
Private, well-spaced sites: Campers appreciate the generous spacing at James River area campgrounds. "Sites are spaced well and still very close to everything. Very bike friendly and lots of trails. Large playground and a good boat launch for tubes and kayaks," writes Isaac R. about Powhatan State Park.
Clean, updated facilities: Bear Creek Lake State Park Campground receives praise for its maintenance standards. "Part of the VA State Park system, BCL is exceptionally well-maintained. Most of the sites are RV accessible, but there are a few tent-only sites along the lake, which is where we stayed," reports Stephanie J.
Wildlife viewing: The natural setting attracts diverse wildlife. "Loved seeing the deer so close and other wildlife. Fire ring with grate was available. Large site size," mentions Terri S. from Big Meadows Campground — Shenandoah National Park.
Tent pad comfort: Some campsites feature specialized tent pads. "The tent pads are filled with shredded tires instead of gravel or dirt, which provides a little extra cushion, but can be uncomfortable on bare feet," notes a Bear Creek Lake visitor.
What you should know
Primitive camping conditions: For those seeking equestrian camping options beyond James River, be prepared for basic facilities. "I enjoyed my stay in this wooded campground. The sites were equipped with fire rings and picnic tables and level, gravel areas to park cars in front of your site," writes Virginia G. about the primitive area at James River State Park.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies across regional horse campgrounds near Covesville. "Verizon service is spotty 1 to 2 bars and unreliable data but with a directional cell booster we are able to get enough signal for our Verizon Jetpack to work," notes Micah B. from Red Oak.
Seasonal flooding considerations: Water levels impact campsite availability at certain times. "Depending on the time of the year they might be in the flood zone if the river is high, which it was during this trip," warns a Powhatan State Park visitor about the canoe-in sites.
Trailer parking restrictions: Some equestrian camping areas have specific parking rules. "You couldn't pull your car into the site because of the wood bollards but I think that is a good thing," notes a James River camper about the primitive campground setup.
Tips for camping with families
Ranger programs: Take advantage of educational activities. "We enjoyed a fire making class followed by s'mores on Friday night and then an owl searching hike on Saturday night. We hiked many miles while here and had a great weekend," shares Bridget H. from Shenandoah Crossing, a Bluegreen Vacations Resort.
Cabin alternatives: Consider cabin options for family horse camping trips. "The cabins and lodges have 2, 3, and 6 bedrooms and look beautiful. There is even a canoe-in campground," recommends a Red Oak camper.
Kid-friendly water access: Look for appropriate swimming areas. "There is a great swimming area with a little kids area that was so fun! We did a hike around the whole lake, lots of great views," advises Katie M. about Bear Creek Lake.
Animal interactions: Children enjoy the farm animals at nearby facilities. "For kids, there is a duck pond, chicken coop, shallow brook, disable farm tractor, and some other stuff to play with/on/in across the street near the lodge," notes Matt from Graves Mountain Farm Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Be prepared for variations in site levelness. "Sites in the River Bend Campground (main campground) are private and wooded, especially this time of year when the trees are so full. The sites are gravel and include a picnic table, lantern/trash pole, and a fire pit with grill gate," reports a Powhatan State Park camper.
RV length limits: Check size restrictions before booking. "Limit on RV length to 35 feet. This includes tow vehicle and trailer," warns Erica M. about Bear Creek Lake State Park.
Hookup options: Full-service sites may be limited at equestrian campgrounds. "Some are pull-through for RVs and many have water/electric. Wood is for sale at the park but no ice or refreshments," notes a Powhatan visitor.
Road access considerations: Access roads can be challenging for larger rigs. "I imagine the drive to the park would be very slow for RVs or someone pulling a trailer with boats etc.," cautions an RL about Red Oak Campground.
