Several campgrounds near Luray, Virginia offer designated horse-friendly sites and riding options. Fort Valley Ranch, located about 19 miles from Luray, provides accommodations for riders and their horses within proximity to George Washington National Forest trail systems. While dedicated equestrian facilities like corrals are limited in the immediate Luray area, several properties permit horses with advance arrangements.
What to do
Horseback riding on trails: At Fort Valley Ranch, campers have access to riding trails directly from the property. "The availability of horseback trail riding was an added bonus... Within a 10-minute drive, there are opportunities for hiking and river activities. We found a river access point perfect for swimming and wading," reports Jason G.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Big Meadows Campground in Shenandoah National Park offers excellent wildlife viewing. "You will definitely see deer in the campground as they walk through and browse the understory. They are unafraid of humans unless directly approached," notes Veronica S. The firefly displays are also remarkable: "At dusk, the ground shimmers, and then after they disperse, you will still see them flit by the tent throughout the night."
Outdoor shooting range: The Cove Campground offers unique recreational options. "With great trails, a lake, and outdoor shooting range we can easily spend the whole weekend or longer," shares Victoriana P. This campground combines multiple outdoor activities in one location. Another camper, Ben M., confirms: "This Campground had everything I wanted. Shooting range, ATV trails, fishing, hiking and great campsites."
What campers like
Lake activities for all ages: At Trout Pond Recreation Area, the water features are a major draw. "The beach is nice and lots of fishing, hiking, playgrounds for the kids. Whether a day trip or camping this is a nice spot," writes Wendi C. The lake water quality is exceptional, as Fred F. notes: "Water was so clean that it was throbbing with freshwater jellyfish. Very clean campground."
Private wooded campsites: Despite its size, Big Meadows Campground offers secluded sites. "Though this campground is HUGE, the sites are not piled on top of each other. Our site, B112, was surrounded by shrubs under the canopy of trees which provided tons of privacy," explains Veronica S. Another camper, Jacob S., had a similar experience: "Campground was busy but never felt like we were sharing someone else's tent stakes."
Animal encounters: Multiple properties feature farm animals. At Graves Mountain Farm Campground, Alex R. enjoyed the "awesome views, good food in the restaurant up the hill. Lots of people on horses running around which we loved, and good live music after dinner." The Cove Campground has unique residents: "One unique (and awesome) touch: there are goats casually roaming around the campground. It adds a fun, unexpected charm to the place," mentions Karl S.
What you should know
Weather and elevation considerations: Big Meadows sits at higher elevation with significant temperature variations. Carol B. reports: "We camped here the last night of the season (Nov30)... It was an especially cold night hitting a low of 14F. Very happy for the nearby heated restrooms with hot running water."
Limited bathroom facilities: Some campgrounds have minimal facilities. At Graves Mountain Farm Lodge, one camper noted: "I was quite grateful we had brought our own port-a-potty because the one provided at the farm was filthy. We didn't try to go in the bathhouse after seeing how nasty the port-a-potty was," shares Susan A.
Limited cell service: Expect connectivity challenges. At The Cove, Karl S. notes: "Cell service is minimal to nonexistent — not a big deal for most campers, but something to keep in mind." Similarly, Chris J. reports about Trout Pond: "At the end of the season last year, they were installing a pay phone, which is helpful because there is no cell service. In case of an emergency, you are a 20 minute drive to call for help."
Tips for camping with families
Junior ranger programs: Big Meadows offers educational activities. "Nice amphitheater with interesting ranger programs. Busy traffic in park but nice trails are accessible from campground. Visitor Center, gas station, food walking distance from campground," shares Kim L.
Insect preparation: Bug activity varies by season and location. At Big Meadows, Veronica S. advises: "The bugs when we got here were kinda crazy. They don't bite but they swarm your head and try to enter every orifice for some reason. A head net was helpful to get the tent and screen room set up."
Water activities for children: Shenandoah Crossing offers extensive amenities. "Salt water pool, horse rides, go karts, mini golf. Definitely more than a campground," reports RL. Another visitor, Brenda L., confirms: "We didn't take advantage of the multiple activities there but we did see people riding horses. Looked like a good time!"
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Many sites require adjustment. At Shenandoah Crossing, Jed notes: "We reserved a 'pull-through' RV site which ended up being a back-in site that was very uneven and nowhere near level." Plan accordingly with leveling blocks.
Road access considerations: Steep roads may require planning. Chris J. advises Trout Pond visitors: "There are some pretty steep inclines to even get to the campgrounds. Unless you have a powerful vehicle pulling your camper, it would help to release your water supply and fill up when you get to the campground."
Full hookup availability: Fort Valley Ranch offers complete RV services. "Our site (site 3) was an easy level pull-through site, making the setup/breakdown very quick and painless. All the RV sites were impressively level, with only minimal leveling needed," reports Jason G.
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