Collins Cove Horse Campground is one of several equestrian-focused camping areas in the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area near Ivanhoe, Virginia. The region sits at elevations between 2,500 and 5,700 feet, creating varied terrain for riders of all skill levels. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing at night while summer days typically range from 70-85°F, making spring and fall the most popular seasons for equestrian camping.
What to Do
Trail connections from camp: At Fox Creek Horse Camp, campers can access the Virginia Highlands Horse Trail directly from their sites. "With a wide network of multi-use trails in this area, Fox Creek Horse Camp provides a nice base for exploring on horseback," notes Jean C.
Waterfall explorations: Stone Mountain State Park, about 30 minutes from Ivanhoe, offers opportunities to view waterfalls along its hiking trails. "Great hikes and area for the family. Beautiful scenery and some great swimming holes," reports Stacey S.
Fairystone hunting: Fairy Stone State Park provides unique geological experiences where visitors can search for cross-shaped minerals. "We learned about the mysterious 'Fairy Stones' and went to the hunt site to see for ourselves. Sure enough - we found several fairy stones and the kids were very happy," says Kirsten J.
What Campers Like
Primitive solitude: Basin Cove Campground in the Blue Ridge Parkway area offers a quieter alternative to established horse campgrounds. "This camp ground is very small and on the side of a very quiet road next to beautiful fields with breath taking views... there is no cell service and it is very clean of trash perfect quiet getaway," reports Christian.
Clean facilities: Mash Fork Campground at Camp Creek State Park maintains well-kept restrooms and shower facilities. "Showers were the best of any campground I've seen- water gets as hot as you'd like, with great water pressure and plenty of hooks and towel racks," mentions Nicole M.
Affordability: Sites at equestrian campgrounds in the Jefferson National Forest are budget-friendly. According to Michael W., Fox Creek Horse Camp is "remarkable and remote. 5.00 or less with pass."
What You Should Know
Water availability: Unlike Collins Cove, many campgrounds in the region require bringing your own drinking 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," advises Jean C.
Cell service limitations: Most horse campgrounds near Ivanhoe have limited or no cellular coverage. At Chestnut Hollow Horse Campground in Grayson Highlands State Park, prepare for disconnection as many campers report no service for major carriers.
Reservation systems: Some campgrounds like Collins Cove operate on a first-come basis while others require advance bookings. Stone Mountain State Park offers both options: "About a year ago, this park became half first come first served and half reservation only. Each site has a yellow or red tag on it - the yellow tags have to be reserved by site number."
Tips for Camping with Families
Beginner-friendly trails: Basin Cove Campground offers accessible hiking options for families. "Easy hike in, but far enough that you won't find High-maintenance campers or crowds... Great for taking beginner backcountry tent/hammock campers," suggests Hollz.
Wildlife viewing: Children particularly enjoy seeing the wildlife at Chestnut Hollow Horse Campground. Kelly C. shares, "Saw a Family of black bear about a mile from camp then a bobcat in camp later that day!"
Weather preparation: Mountain elevations mean rapid weather changes. One camper at Chestnut Hollow advises: "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! The windchill was a serious issue for some in our group so bring lots of layers and gloves."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: At Fairy Stone State Park Campground, RV sites require some adjustment. "The sites are a little rough but easy to level your rig," notes Keith F.
Dump station considerations: Be aware of dump station conditions when selecting sites. At Fairy Stone, one camper reported: "Our site was by the dump station which was in sitting black and grey water when we arrived. It had an awful smell."
Alternative accommodations: For RVers wanting more amenities, Sandy Creek Family Campground offers electric hookups while maintaining proximity to trails. "We had the campground all to ourselves when we went which was really nice! The site we were at was pretty level, but they don't have a specific pad they just told us to park however we wanted," explains Becca C.
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