Equestrian campgrounds near Linden, Virginia offer primitive and developed accommodations for riders wanting to explore mountain trails. The Virginia-Tennessee border region features multiple facilities with varying levels of amenity access. Campers can choose between tent sites alongside horse paddocks or RV spots with hookups depending on their comfort requirements and trail riding plans.
What to do
Trail ride at Clinch River: Visitors can access the Clinch River for water activities after riding. "We had a wonderful time tent camping and hiking, the staff was always around if we needed anything and we had a peaceful, memorable vacation," notes Heather K. about Clinch River Family Campground, which serves as a base for hiking and water adventures.
Visit Natural Tunnel State Park: Located 30-45 minutes from Clinch River Family Campground, this natural limestone cave formation offers unique geological features. "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," shares Beth B.
Explore Jefferson National Forest: The forest provides extensive multi-use trails suitable for horses and hikers. "What makes this place great is that the entrance is directly across from the Jefferson National Forrest. There we were able to kayak at Bark Camp Lake which was not busy at all and hike at Little Stoney Falls," writes Noah O. about his stay at Cliffhanger Ranch Adventure Outpost.
What campers like
Riverside locations: Many equestrian campgrounds feature water access for cooling off after trail rides. "Beautiful river. Lots of open space pets. This is very country setting. Friendly host," Dennis writes about Clinch River Family Campground.
Free firewood availability: Some campgrounds provide complimentary firewood for evening campfires. "Free firewood. No pool or playground, but still a nice peaceful campground," notes Holli C. at Cherokee Trails Campground and Stables.
Direct trail access: Camps positioned for immediate trail access reduce transport needs. "Great place to camp along side the creek or rv lots with mountain views. Walking distance to Clinch River. Kayak, Hiking, Biking, spacious lots," explains Andy J. about Out on The Creek Campground.
What you should know
Remote locations require preparation: Many horse camps sit at considerable distance from main roads with limited services. "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. 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," warns Beth B.
Seasonal considerations: Most equestrian facilities in the region have limited operating seasons. Cherokee Trails Campground operates March through November, while others may restrict access during winter months when trail conditions deteriorate.
Variable amenities: Bathroom and shower facilities vary significantly between properties. "Way up the road! It's a nice place once you get here on the narrow country road. Nice clean bathhouse. Cabins, RV spots mostly level, paddocks for horses," explains Mimi about her experience at Cherokee Trails.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Look for camps with river or creek access for cooling off. "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 Clinch River Family Campground.
Playground availability: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play equipment. "Definitely back off the main road nice people that run it. Quite, and people were friendly. We visited Natural tunnel and Wilderness Road. They did have internet," notes Dan D., highlighting activities near Clinch River that complement horse riding.
Consider cabins for mixed groups: Family members who prefer not to tent camp can stay in cabins at Bristol-Kingsport KOA while others camp. "I'd never used a KOA before but was tremendously impressed with the serene beauty of this place situated well away from traffic in a bucolic setting. Mindful of my budget I learned to ask for a tent site with no electricity, no water, just toilets and showers. The young man who helped me observed I was alone and put me in a small cabin for no additional charge," recounts Susan E.
Tips from RVers
Access considerations: Mountain roads present challenges for larger RVs. "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," cautions Debbie O. about Rocky Top Campground.
Campsite spacing: Some equestrian campgrounds place sites close together. "Camp grounds were amazing. Staff was beyond friendly and professional. I knocked off a star only because of how close sites were together. Other than that everything was out standing," notes Erin I.
Cellular connectivity: Signal strength varies widely across the region. "We arrive very late, after all day travels from Florida. My phone had three bars, Verizon 5G ultra wide signal," reports Timothy F. about Bristol-Kingsport KOA, though many more remote horse camps have limited or no connectivity.
