Equestrian camping near Covington, Virginia offers access to multiple trail systems across the Allegheny Mountains. The region sits at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 3,000 feet, creating varied terrain for horseback riding throughout the area. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-85°F during the day, dropping to 55-65°F at night, making it comfortable for outdoor activities even during peak season.
What to do
Trout fishing opportunities: Lake Moomaw provides excellent fishing within the Bolar Mountain Recreation Area. "In season the lake and creek are stocked with plenty of Rainbow trout. You can keep them for dinner if you like! Just follow all DNR laws on size and amount!" notes John R. A daily fishing pass costs $8.
Mountain biking trails: The area offers varied terrain for cyclists at Douthat State Park Campground. "The trails are great for mountain biking. Bring your legs, lots of climbing!" according to Robyn S. The main roads are also suitable for road cycling with routes extending 15+ miles from the campground.
Swimming in natural waters: Lake swimming provides relief after trail riding. "The water was beautiful, temperature perfect for swimming. There's a separate beach that you can drive to that is roped off for swimming purposes," explains Joanna G. about Bolar Mountain Recreation Area. For more private swimming, many campsites have trail access to non-designated swimming areas.
What campers like
Large, private sites: Campers appreciate the spacious accommodations at Douthat State Park. "The sites are large but there really aren't trees between sites although we were on a corner and so had some sense of privacy," notes Diane P. White Oak Campground within the park has "a significant elevation change between different sites," providing additional separation.
Well-maintained facilities: The campgrounds maintain high standards of cleanliness. "The bathrooms were incredibly clean and heated. Showers were terrific as well," shares Diane P. This makes extended stays more comfortable, especially for those spending multiple days on horseback trails.
Multi-day river trails: For longer horseback adventures, Greenbrier River Trail offers primitive camping options along a 78-mile route. "The Greenbrier Trail itself travels between the Greenbrier River and was, in many places, hewn from the mountainside," explains Dave V. These trails follow former railway routes with gentle 1% grades.
What you should know
Weather considerations: The region experiences afternoon rain showers, especially in summer. "Heavy rainstorms brought down numerous trees across the GRT during our trip...but the State Park employees worked diligently and feverishly to clear the trail," reports Dave V. about the Greenbrier River Trail MP 69.6.
Wildlife awareness: This is bear country, requiring proper food storage. "This is bear country, so we kept all our food items and toiletries in a bear cannister during our trip," advises Dave V. Black bears, deer, and other wildlife are commonly spotted on trails throughout the region.
Reservations recommended: For established campgrounds, especially those with equestrian facilities, booking ahead is essential. "Bolar Mountain Rec Area is on Lake Moomaw. We had the pleasure of having a campsite with lake view and access both times. Each campground has a host and they have firewood for sale, so bring cash," notes Nicole R.
Tips for camping with families
Educational opportunities: Take advantage of ranger programs for children. "A favorite of our for years! All types of sites and hookups plus cabins. Fishing, lake swimming, hiking, educational opportunities galore," shares Cathy L. about Douthat State Park. Many programs focus on local ecology and wildlife.
Kid-friendly water activities: Shallow swimming areas provide safe options for children. "The lake is nice, and there is nice hiking along the shore," mentions Thomas R. Most designated swimming areas maintain gradual entry points suitable for younger children.
Beginner-friendly trails: For families new to horseback riding, select shorter loop trails. "I imagine it would be a great place for kids," notes Diane P. about Cranberry River Sites. "The main trail is graveled and very easily accessed. It runs along the Cranberry River with beautiful views all along the way," adds Mike F.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: For larger RVs, specific campgrounds offer better access. "Whispering Pines is a few miles away along the entry road and has a different character. It's a very flat and wide-open campground perfect for big RVs with much larger sites," explains Jeremy W. about Don's Cab-Inns Campground.
Low water crossing caution: Some campground access roads have challenging approaches. "Caution should be used with large rigs as the low-water bridge to White Oak has steep approach and departure angles," warns Jeremy W. This is particularly important during spring when water levels may be higher.
Winter camping options: Unlike many seasonal campgrounds, some remain open year-round. "One of the few campgrounds open during the winter with facilities," notes Stephen D. about Don's Cab-Inns. Electric hookups become especially valuable during colder months when temperatures can drop below freezing overnight.
