Equestrian camping near Hot Springs, Virginia offers direct access to extensive trail networks throughout the Monongahela National Forest and surrounding state parks. Located in the Allegheny Mountains at elevations ranging from 2,000 to 3,000 feet, the region experiences cooler temperatures than surrounding lowlands, with summer highs rarely exceeding 85°F. The area's limestone-rich soil creates firm trail conditions suitable for horse traffic throughout the riding season from April through November.
What to do
Trail riding access points: At Bolar Mountain Recreation Area, riders can explore trails surrounding Lake Moomaw. "This is a great campground on a beautiful lake. Well off the beaten path, it takes a little time to get there but it's worth the trip," notes Scott P. Multiple trail access points allow riders to customize routes based on skill level.
Swimming opportunities: Lake Moomaw at Bolar Mountain offers warm-water swimming directly accessible from some campsites. "This place is amazing. I could stay here every weekend and not get tired of it. Warm water, fresh air, no service," reports Blake B. Riders can cool off after trail excursions without returning to designated swimming areas.
Backcountry exploration: The Greenbrier River Trail MP 69.6 provides multi-use trail access for equestrians with primitive camping options. "The amount of wildlife we saw throughout the day was incredible while biking the trail. Mostly deer, rabbit, chipmunks and Eastern Box Turtles sharing the trail...but we did see a few turkey, fox and bobcat," writes Dave V. The trail traverses Watoga State Park and Seneca State Forest.
What campers like
Riverside camping spots: Along the Greenbrier River Trail system, riders appreciate Mile Post 28.5 Primitive Campsite for its water access. "Swimming and fishing are permitted in the Greenbrier River (Fishing: if you have a WV Fishing License). In late June, temperatures were still quite cool, so while the river looked inviting, we did not take the plunge," mentions Dave V. These sites offer Adirondack-style shelters with raised tent pads.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the well-maintained amenities at Douthat State Park Campground. "The bathrooms were incredibly clean and heated. Showers were terrific as well. Staff were kind and knowledgeable," reports Diane P. Horse owners appreciate the designated facilities in the Beaver Dam section where equestrian-specific amenities are maintained separately from general camping areas.
Mountain views: Higher elevation camping provides scenic vantage points throughout the region. "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. about Douthat State Park, where the topography creates natural separation between camping areas despite limited vegetation screening in some sections.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Most equestrian camping areas have minimal or no connectivity. At Kumbrabow State Forest, a reviewer noted "No cell coverage or Wi-Fi" among the cons. This higher-elevation forest (3,000 feet above sea level) offers primitive camping with nearby trails but requires self-sufficiency and advance planning.
Seasonal considerations: Most equestrian facilities operate from April through November. "In June, you can anticipate random, short afternoon or evening cloudbursts...but they can be gully-washers. Nights were cool and most mornings I wore a long-sleeve Merino shirt," explains Dave V. about conditions along the Greenbrier River Trail.
Trail conditions: Heavy rainfall can impact access routes. "Blow-down did slow us down a few times," reports Dave V., explaining that "The Greenbrier Trail itself travels between the Greenbrier River and was, in many places, hewn from the mountainside. It is these areas where heavy rains soften the soil and old growth trees dislodge and cause trail blockages and/or mudslides."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water features: Families appreciate camping areas with swimming access. "A quiet great place, we love to camp this park you have all you want if you love outdoors: lake, hiking trails, horseback riding trails, RV's site, tent site, cabins... the rest is pure fun," shares Wilfredo D. about Douthat State Park.
Educational opportunities: Parks in the region offer programming for younger visitors. "Fishing, lake swimming, hiking, educational opportunities galore. Security is good but not overwhelming," notes Cathy L. about Douthat, where ranger-led programs occur throughout the summer season.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Cranberry River Sites NF Campground provides excellent wildlife observation chances along the river corridor. "The fishing here is the best around with beautiful waterfalls like big ruff and the ducks are so colorful like no other," mentions Jamie H. Children can spot wildlife from safe distances along established trails and waterways.
Tips from RVers
Access considerations: Some equestrian camping areas require navigating unpaved roads. "Lengthy dirt road drive to get there," cautions one reviewer about Kumbrabow State Forest. RVers with larger trailers should call ahead for current road conditions.
Hookup availability: For those needing full service while horse camping, East Fork Campground and Horse Stables offers the most comprehensive options. "Very nice campground with water and electric right on the river for $32, clean bathrooms and showers, and very nice owners. We stayed for one night but most of the others staying there had horses and were staying a while," shares Richard.
Site selection: When traveling with both RV and horses, prioritize sites with adequate room for trailers. "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., highlighting the importance of selecting corner locations when available for improved separation between camping units.
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