East Fork Campground and Horse Stables sits at the northern end of the Monongahela National Forest in West Virginia, an area characterized by forested mountains reaching elevations between 2,500-4,800 feet. The campground's position along the Greenbrier River provides access to an extensive trail network with seasonal fishing opportunities and wildlife viewing. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing from November through March, while summer days average 75-85°F with cooler evenings due to the elevation.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: Explore the West Fork Rail Trail accessible from the Durbin area. One camper noted, "We used it as a base for Cass Scenic Railroad, which is not far from Durbin" (Ryan P., Revelle's River Resort).
Scenic railway rides: The historic Durbin Rocket operates adjacent to East Fork Campground. "Adjacent to the Durbin Rocket steam locomotive. They are doing a train robbery this week, robbers are riding horseback to steal a guarded shipment!" (Harold C.).
Trout fishing opportunities: The mountains near McDowell feature stocked streams throughout spring and fall. "The stream is stocked with trout in the spring and fall. My wife and I spent our honeymoon here 25 years ago and plan to return there this fall" (Tim M., Laurel Fork Campground).
Stargazing sessions: The area includes portions of the National Radio Quiet Zone with minimal light pollution. "You're in the middle of nowhere, so you do have a truly dark sky. Make sure you have what you need because it's a long way to a spot to resupply!" (Jean C.).
What campers like
Remote wilderness experience: The horse campgrounds near McDowell, Virginia provide access to secluded forests. "This place feel and literally is in the middle of nowhere. It takes forever on dirt forest service roads to finally stumble upon this place, making its beauty that much more enchanting" (Christopher B.).
Mountain stream campsites: Sites positioned along waterways offer natural cooling and ambiance. "Our site was right on the creek and the sound was awesome for sleeping. Biggest surprise, given the location on the creek and remoteness of the campground (settled deep in the woods), there were No Bugs to speak of!" (Dana M.).
Primitive camping along rail trails: The Greenbrier River Trail offers designated sites for hikers and cyclists. "All you need for a great time, nothing more and nothing less! Free camping (First come, first served), newer Adirondack style shelter, newer large/clean/stocked pit latrine" (Dave V., Greenbrier River Trail Milepost 63.8).
Wildlife viewing: Many campsites provide opportunities to observe native animals. "The Greenbrier River Trail is one of the most beautiful and often most remote trail I have had the privilege of bikepacking. Wildlife and songbirds were abundant and as shocked to see you as you were them" (Dave V.).
What you should know
Limited cell service: Many equestrian campgrounds near McDowell have minimal connectivity. "Download your maps before you come, because there's no cell service and you'll truly get away" (Jean C., Spruce Knob Lake Campground).
Remote locations require preparation: Access roads to several campgrounds are unpaved. "Access is by about 6 miles of dirt/rock road. There are many trails at all hiking levels" (Kenneth K.).
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds in the area close during winter months. "Very friendly. We were just traveling through on our way south and called to see if we could stay for a night. The campground was being shut down for the season but the owners accommodated us anyway!" (Casey L.).
Weather considerations: Higher elevations experience cooler temperatures. "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" (Dave V.).
Tips for camping with families
Stream play areas: Look for camping areas with shallow creek access. "The campground had stables and catered to people with horses, but we felt very welcomed by the owners. This campground in Durbin was great for exploring the north end of the Greenbrier River Trail" (Cindy B., East Fork Campground).
Kid-friendly hiking: Several trails offer manageable terrain for young hikers. "They have an awesome wooded hiking trail that goes around the entire lake approximately 1 mile long" (Adam W.).
Safety considerations: Keep children supervised near water features. "Bring water shoes, the rocks can be sharp. The campsite was spacious and shaded, they do offer doubles for larger groups" (Nicole R.).
Educational opportunities: Visit the nearby Green Bank Observatory. "Pocahontas County is home to the Green Bank National Radio Astronomy Observatory, a federal complex whose giant single-dish telescope detects 'invisible energy waves' from space" (Cindy B.).
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Several campgrounds offer complete services. "The sites are full hook up. The owners Mark and Marsha are super nice and accommodating" (Matt V.).
Limited town services: Stock up before arrival as local communities have minimal resources. "The only slight negative is the town is closed down, so make sure you bring everything you need to eat and drink" (Richard, Bolar Mountain Recreation Area).
River access for RVs: Waterfront sites accommodate larger vehicles. "My family and I liked this campground a lot. We had a camp site that was right against the river with full hookups. This seemed to be a well laid out campground with sites for weekenders in maybe the best location right along the river" (Kevin C.).
Road conditions: Some campgrounds have challenging access roads. "Lengthy dirt road drive to get there, No cell coverage or Wi-Fi, 2 mile drive to bath house" (C.S., Kumbrabow State Forest).
