Nestled in the heart of central Virginia, horse campgrounds near Farmville offer direct access to more than just riverside recreation. At an elevation of about 450 feet, the region experiences mild spring and fall temperatures, making shoulder seasons ideal for camping. Winter nights can drop below freezing while summer brings high humidity with temperatures regularly exceeding 85°F.
What to Do
Night sky viewing: Bear Creek Lake State Park has been designated an International Dark Sky Park. "We drove around and checked out the cabin sites. These cabins are HUGE and really beautiful. They look like they could accommodate over 12 people. There's also a meeting space/hall that you can book.... would be a great place for reunions, receptions, etc," notes camper RL.
Water recreation: Staunton River State Park offers multiple water activities within a short walk from campsites. "We had a great weekend here. Enjoyed outdoor movie on Friday. Park rangers had great kids programs including animal feeding frenzy where we learned about snakes and turtles and we invoked in feeding. Also lots of any pelts to learn about. Park is part of international Darksky Association, great for stargazing and viewing. Telescopes for rent. Great water access for kayaking," says Katie.
Mountain biking: Pocahontas State Park maintains extensive trail systems suitable for both beginners and experienced riders. "Great State Park campground! No sewer hookups (they do have 30/50amp). Lots of hiking, fantastic mountain bike trails, lots of history. LOVE the staff. 20 mins from every store you can imagine, but super quiet at night. Sites are well spaced," reports Ashley I.
Archery practice: Several area parks include dedicated archery ranges with varying difficulty levels. "Shaded bliss. If you are looking for a nice place to relax, this is the campground. It's an older state park with mature shade trees but we'll maintained. The bathhouse is kept very clean. It has a lake for swimming, boating, and fishing. There are programs every weekend. There is even an archery range. There is hiking trails throughout as well," writes Erica M.
What Campers Like
Secluded sites: Many campgrounds in the region feature well-spaced sites that provide privacy. "The campground is waaayyy back in the back of park. Only a few years old. No full hookup (yes 30/50 amp). Well maintained trails, level sites. No river access in campground," notes Ashley I. about Powhatan State Park.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds consistently maintain high standards for bathhouses and common areas. "Booked last minute on a Wednesday night they had two openings. Sites are very spacious and good distance between other campers. Nice privacy. Large Bath house dump stations were great. Some sites were very level. We were on site seven which was very long but very unlevel," shares Jim L.
Ranger programs: Educational activities run by park staff offer engagement for all ages. "My gkids and I stayed here one night because they wanted to earn a winter camping badge and it was so worth it! We were there on a beautiful chilly clear night and the sky and stars were amazing! If you love stargazing this is the park for you. It is an International Dark Sky Park. There is a large open field by the park check in and store. The park offers rentals of telescopes too," explains Bridget H.
Site layout: Campgrounds feature thoughtful design elements that enhance functionality. "Weekend getaway. This was our first time camping at state park with our dogs and it has been great. We were able to score a campsite with a view of the lake and easy access to the Channel Cat Loop trail. Our tent pad was covered in rubber pieces which made for a comfortable base for our tent, and the separate area with fire pit, picnic table and pattern hooks was awesome," says Kaylee G.
What You Should Know
Reservation timing: During peak seasons, secure sites 6-12 months in advance for equestrian-friendly campgrounds. "We came here because it's about an hour-and-a-half from home, perfect for an overnight. The photo on the website of our particular site was very deceptive. It looked way more secluded and wooded than it actually was, but it was decent. Acorn Loop has lake-front sites that I would highly recommend. Sites 4-12 are the best, with #11 being the best best," advises RL from Bear Creek Lake State Park.
Weather considerations: The region experiences high humidity and temperatures during summer months. "The sites were close together but a few sites are worth it right on the water. It had a good weekend program for the family. The beach personnel were great and helpful. Lots of bugs. Even with bug spray. Fishing was not bad. Caught my first ever catfish," reports Ross B.
Site selection: Research specific site numbers when booking, as quality varies widely within each campground. "Decent bathhouse on Iron Bow. Sites are really close together and narrow so doesn't leave a lot of room between campers. Not terrible but also have had stayed at more spacious state park campsites. 7$ bundles for firewood for sale near the bathhouse," observes Harry B.
Cell service variability: Coverage strength varies significantly between campgrounds. "Nice campground in line with expectations for most Virginia state parks. 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.
Tips for Camping with Families
Water options: Occoneechee State Park offers multiple water recreation opportunities for children. "We stayed in Cabin #3 and it was perfect. It's a 3BR/2BA spacious cabin, wooded and lakeside. Great sunsets and nice big deck (some areas of the porch are covered, and have rocking chairs). Next time we tent camp we will definitely stay in Campground C where the sites are RIGHT on the water," recommends RL.
Educational programs: Schedule around ranger-led activities designed specifically for kids. "We had a fun camping trip at Bear Creek Lake! We chose a reservable waterview site (#18) and I'm glad we got the one we did! It is not directly on the water, there is a fence around the site and then a short walk to the water. I'm glad we had the beautiful view of the lake while camping, but didn't have to stress about the kids getting in the water the whole time," shares Katie M.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature modern play equipment within walking distance of campsites. "This is a pretty standard campground. Sites are extremely close together and campground is kind of tiny. One bathhouse for the whole campground. This park would probably appeal to equestrians, boaters, and RVers over tent campers. Unfortunately the promixity of other campers was stressful this weekend because of the screaming family right next to us," advises RL.
Tips from RVers
Length restrictions: Red Oak Campground and other parks in the area enforce strict vehicle length limits. "We rented a cabin with fantastic sunset views. This park has great walking and equine trails, a fantastic visitor center, and a wonderful outdoor park/adventure zone for the kiddos," notes Jamie B.
Site leveling: Many campgrounds feature uneven sites requiring additional equipment. "This campground is definitely for trail bikers and RVers. The campsites fill up quickly. If you do not reserve your spot early, you may be placed near the road, where traffic is an issue. There is not much more to do at this park," cautions Emmely B.
Hookup variations: Research specific utilities available at each site before booking. "Campground is well-maintained and the sights are awesome. The hiking trails are also do horses and parts have been beaten down and there was a lot of horse poop in the trail. Still worth the hike to see the peaceful water though," shares Chaz M.
