The Millboro area of Virginia sits within the ridge-and-valley portion of the Appalachians, with elevations ranging from 1,500 to 3,500 feet. This topography creates diverse camping environments with terrain suitable for both novice and experienced equestrian riders. Spring temperatures average 45-65°F, while summer brings 65-85°F days with frequent afternoon rain showers.
What to do
Trail riding access: Bolar Mountain Recreation Area connects to numerous forest service trails. "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., highlighting the remote setting that appeals to horseback riders.
Swimming opportunities: Lake Moomaw at Bolar Mountain Recreation Area offers water recreation after a day of riding. "The water was beautiful, temperature perfect for swimming. There's a separate beach that you can drive to that is roped off for swimming purposes," explains Joanna G., who appreciated the cooling options during warmer months.
Mountain biking trails: Douthat State Park Campground provides trail options for those alternating between horse and bike activities. "We did a decent amount of biking here, the main road is nice for road biking, we rode out about 15 miles and back... And the trails are great for mountain biking. Bring your legs, lots of climbing!" says Robyn S.
What campers like
Clean facilities: East Fork Campground and Horse Stables maintains excellent bathroom facilities. "Most of the sites were full hook-ups and the facilities were very clean and well maintained," reports Cindy B., who visited during a multi-day equestrian trip.
Water proximity: Riders appreciate camps with water access for horses and humans. "Our site was across the road from the lake but there was a trail that led to the water," shares Joanna G. about Bolar Mountain, adding that "bathrooms were the cleanest I've ever seen at any campground."
Trail variety: The region offers trails for all skill levels. "Nice campground in line with expectations for most Virginia state parks," writes Micah B. about Red Oak Campground, which connects to James River State Park's extensive trail system.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Campgrounds in the area have varying operating seasons. Douthat State Park runs primarily from May to September, while Bolar Mountain is open "April 4 to December 5," according to its listing information.
Remote locations: Many equestrian camping areas have limited connectivity. "No service" is listed as both a pro and con in reviews of Greenbrier River Trail primitive campsites, where Dave V. notes the sites are "free, first come-first served and cannot be reached by motor vehicle."
Weather patterns: Summer thunderstorms are common. "In June, you can anticipate random, short afternoon or evening cloudbursts...but they can be gully-washers," warns Dave V. about the Greenbrier River Trail area, suggesting riders prepare for sudden weather changes.
Tips for camping with families
Educational opportunities: Douthat State Park offers programs for younger visitors. "A favorite of our for years! All types of sites and hookups plus cabins. Fishing, lake swimming, hiking, educational opportunities galore," says Cathy L., highlighting activities beyond riding.
Safety considerations: Areas with horses require vigilance with children. "Security is good but not overwhelming," notes Cathy L. about Douthat State Park, an important factor for families with both children and horses.
Kid-friendly amenities: James River State Park's Red Oak Campground includes facilities designed for younger visitors. "The park is part of the Dark Sky Parks Association and if you are into astronomy and stars this is the place to stay... We enjoyed a fire making class followed by s'mores on Friday night and then an owl searching hike on Saturday night," shares Bridget H.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RVers with horse trailers need specific accommodations. "Douthat is really four separate campgrounds... Whispering Pines is a few miles away along the entry road and has a different character. It's a very flat and wide-open campground perfect for big RVs with much larger sites," advises Jeremy W.
Water management: RVers should prepare for varying hookup conditions. "We use a teardrop camper so we appreciated the water and electric hookup (although we disconnected the water at night to prevent freezing)," mentions Diane P., who camped at Douthat in November.
Cell service considerations: Connectivity can impact longer stays. "Verizon service is spotty 1 to 2 bars and unreliable data but with a directional cell booster we are able to get enough signal for our Verizon Jetpack to work," reports Micah B. from Red Oak Campground, important for RVers working remotely.
Traveler
