Equestrian enthusiasts seeking horse campgrounds near Glade Spring, Virginia can explore several options within a short drive. The Mount Rogers National Recreation Area offers approximately 66 miles of interconnected equestrian trails through varied terrain at elevations ranging from 2,000 to 5,700 feet. Most equestrian-specific campgrounds in the region remain open from April through November, with some facilities offering limited primitive camping during winter months.
What to do
Trail riding with wild ponies: At Chestnut Hollow Horse Campground, riders can access multi-use trails where wild ponies roam. "Bobcats, Black Bear, & Wild Horses... We camped at an equestrian campgrounds, chestnut ridge perhaps? Saw a Family of black bear about a mile from camp then a bobcat in camp later that day! Great facilities and located very close to Wilbur ridge where the wild ponies are!" shares Kelly C.
Kayaking at nearby lakes: Campers staying at Julian Price Park Campground can rent boats on the park's lake. "Julian Price Park is a beautiful campground just off the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina. There is a spot within the park to rent kayaks which was great. There is a hiking trail that goes around the lake," notes Kirsten J.
Hiking to waterfalls: From Sandy Creek Family Campground, visitors can walk to Stone Mountain State Park waterfalls. "Access to a sliding rock and waterfall in Stone Mountain State Park with an approximate 1 mile easy hike," confirms Jimmy M.
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: Fox Creek Horse Camp provides a rustic base for horse travelers. "Neat equestrian camp with easy trail access. With a wide network of multi-use trails in this area, Fox Creek Horse Camp provides a nice base for exploring on horseback," writes Jean C.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Campers frequently report wildlife sightings at equestrian campgrounds. "Lots of wildlife! We camped at an equestrian campgrounds... Saw a Family of black bear about a mile from camp then a bobcat in camp later that day!" reports Kelly C. at Chestnut Hollow.
Well-maintained horse facilities: Most equestrian campgrounds provide basic necessities for horses. "Sites have a gravel/grass pads, picnic table, and fire ring. Portable toilets available. Bring your own water. No hookups provided. Hitching posts at sites. Manure collection available," notes Jean C. about Fox Creek Horse Camp.
What you should know
Seasonal closures affect services: During shoulder seasons, some campground facilities close. "Campers are frequently referred to Grindstone campground for potable water and showers, but as of 2021, the dump station and bath houses/water are off; if you need services plan to travel about 15 minutes to Hurricane Campground instead," warns Jean C. about staying at Fox Creek.
Wind conditions can be challenging: Prepare for potentially strong winds at higher elevations. "This place is by far the windiest place I've ever camped in. We couldn't get a proper fire started due to the wind! It was blowing up all over the trails at some points! The windchill was a serious issue for some in our group so bring lots of layers and gloves," advises Scott B. at Chestnut Hollow.
Water availability varies by location: Not all campgrounds offer potable water. At Old Virginia Group Horse Camp, "There is no potable water available, so plan to bring your own. There is a stream at the site where the horses may drink," explains Jean C.
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with playgrounds: Some campgrounds offer play areas for children. Sandy Creek Family Campground has "both a play set for the kids and a volleyball court. All sites had nice picnic tables (that we saw) and easily accessible water," according to Kirsten J.
Look for creek access: Water features provide natural entertainment for children. "The kids enjoyed playing in the creek and on the playground. The grounds are adjacent to the Stone Mountain State Park. Very fun long weekend at a family friendly campground," shares Ann H. about Sandy Creek Family Campground.
Consider seasonal berry picking: Some areas offer seasonal fruit. "Wild ponies, endless blueberries, spectacular view of wildflowers make this on of my go to spots to introduce someone to backpacking," mentions Michael B. about the trails accessible from Chestnut Hollow Horse Campground.
Tips from RVers
Check road conditions for large trailers: Some equestrian campgrounds have challenging access roads. At Cliffhanger Ranch Adventure Outpost, the location puts you "in a quiet area surrounded by forests and a small downtown nearby, perfect for adventuring around a new area," notes Jake C., though the ranch's remote location means access roads might be challenging.
Verify utility hookups before arrival: Not all sites offer the same amenities. At Fox Creek Horse Camp, "No hookups provided," according to Jean C., while Chestnut Hollow offers "water/electric" hookups with "sites are long, gravel, relatively level."
Consider dump station locations: Plan ahead for waste disposal. Sandy Creek Family Campground has a dump station, but some campers report issues: "The biggest negative I would say was the dump station. It was on the hill so you had to back up to it and it wasn't easy location to do so," warns Becca C.
