Equestrian camping near Fort Blackmore, Virginia centers on areas with horse-friendly trails and facilities within the Jefferson National Forest region. Most horse camps offer basic amenities including designated trailer parking, water access, and proximity to established riding paths. The terrain consists primarily of densely wooded slopes and valleys with elevation changes that provide varied riding experiences throughout the seasons.
What to do
Kayaking at Bark Camp Lake: Located directly across from Cliffhanger Ranch Adventure Outpost, this lake offers uncrowded paddling opportunities within Jefferson National Forest. "We were able to kayak at Bark Camp Lake which was not busy at all and hike at Little Stoney Falls. Plenty to do and see in this area," shares Noah O.
Floating the Clinch River: Launch from the public access point near the main road and float downstream to Clinch River Family Campground. "At main road there is a public launch if you want to put in there and then float to campground," notes Beth B. The river provides a gentle current suitable for beginners during normal water levels.
Natural Tunnel exploration: A 30-45 minute drive from most Fort Blackmore campgrounds, this natural limestone cave system includes guided tours and scenic overlooks. "We visited Natural tunnel and Wilderness Road," mentions Dan D. from Clinch River Family Campground. The site features a seasonal chairlift down to the tunnel floor.
What campers like
Secluded camping settings: The Fort Blackmore region offers quieter alternatives to busier campgrounds. "A few friends and I visited this campground in June of 2018 so we could visit the Natural Tunnel and the Devil's Fork Loop Trail. It's a little off the beaten path, down a dirt/gravel road, nestled next to the river," explains Heather K. about her experience at Clinch River Family Campground.
Riverside camping spots: Multiple campgrounds provide direct water access for swimming and fishing. "What a great experience for the whole family and kids and enjoyed the privacy water was a little cold this time of year but I had a great fire next to the river Under the Stars roasting s'mores," writes papa G. about his stay at Clinch River Family Campground.
Direct trail access: Cherokee Trails Campground and Stables offers immediate access to riding paths from camp. "Lots of exploration in the woods potential," mentions Mimi in her review. The campground features a central fire ring surrounded by camp sites with free firewood provided.
What you should know
Remote locations require preparation: Most equestrian-friendly campgrounds in the area involve travel on rural roads. "Way up the road! It's a nice place once you get here on the narrow country road," cautions Mimi about Cherokee Trails Campground. Cell service becomes limited on approach to most campgrounds.
Variable road conditions: Access to campgrounds often includes unpaved sections. "Most of the final road to campground is paved with exception of last mile, its wide enough but slow going. You will lose cellular pretty quickly when you turn on that road," explains Beth B. about reaching Clinch River Family Campground.
Challenging terrain for large trailers: Many access roads have tight turns that complicate arrivals with horse trailers. "The camp on the west side is Dangerous to drive up in a motorhome. I personally drove my 36' up the most curvy incline I wouldn't recommend anyone to give this a second thought if your not a seasoned driver," warns Debbie O. about Rocky Top Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with open play areas: Out on The Creek Campground offers "spacious lots" according to Andy J., who notes the campground provides "Creekside camping mountain views" and is within "Walking distance to Clinch River."
Consider noise levels for tent sites: Hammock camping areas can be noisier than expected. "The hammock campground is super nice with its setup. However, the shrubbery/trees aren't trimmed well so you're going to fight through branches in some cases to hang your stuff. That's fine. It's the fact it is setup directly next to the overflow parking and pool along with the main thoroughfare into the park that's a bummer. It is so LOUD," warns Justin C. about Cedar Ridge Hammock Campground.
Check seasonal availability: Most primitive campgrounds in the area operate seasonally. Old Forge Recreation Area runs from April to October, while Cherokee Trails operates March through November. Some locations like Clinch River Family Campground remain open year-round but with limited amenities during winter months.
Tips from RVers
Prepare for tight access roads: The approach to many campgrounds involves narrow passages. "We chose this campground because it was close to Natural Tunnel and Devils Fork trail (30-45 min). Both of these are worth doing if you are in the area," notes Beth B., who adds that while most roads are paved, the final mile requires slower travel.
Check hookup availability: RV sites at Bristol-Kingsport KOA offer full connections. "They have several large pull through sites, as well as back in smaller sites. They have 50amp service and full hookup sites," explains Laura H. The campground also accommodates larger rigs with specific designated areas.
Consider construction timing: Renovations can impact camping experiences. "The campground itself was good. Bathhouse was clean-ish. Not a lot of amenities. We stayed a week and all days during the week - Monday through Friday, there was construction literally right beside our RV. Constant leaf blowing," reports Christine S. about Rocky Top Campground.
