Equestrian camping near Montvale, Virginia offers varied terrain in the Blue Ridge Mountains with elevations ranging from 800 to 3,500 feet. The area's mixed hardwood forests provide seasonal shade for horse campers while limestone creek beds create natural water crossings. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F with afternoon thunderstorms common in July and August.
What to do
Fairystone hunting: 3 miles from Stuart. At Fairy Stone State Park Campground, visitors search for the rare cross-shaped minerals. "We hunted and found fairy stones which made the trip that much more fun. We even went to the Creeper Trail and rode our bikes from White Top to Damascus," reports Bridget H. The visitor center displays different types of fairy stones and explains their formation.
Trout fishing: Stocked seasonally. Douthat State Park Campground maintains a stocking schedule for rainbow trout. "It's $8 a day for a fishing pass and you can rent John boats or kayaks here as well. In season the lake and creek are stocked with plenty of Rainbow trout. You can keep them for dinner if you like!" notes John R. The park provides fish fillet tables near certain campsites.
Mountain biking: Multiple difficulty levels. The trail systems connect to several equestrian camping areas with designated bike routes. "We did a decent amount of biking here, the main road is nice for road biking, we rode out about 15 miles and back, saw a black bear. And the trails are great for mountain biking. Bring your legs, lots of climbing!" shares Robyn S.
What campers like
Private swimming areas: Not just beaches. Campers at Bolar Mountain Recreation Area appreciate alternative swimming spots. "Our site was across the road from the lake but there was a trail that lead to the water. 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 but we rather enjoyed walking to the water from our site and having what seemed like our own little swimming spot," says Joanna G.
Clean facilities: Consistent maintenance. Frequent cleaning schedules make a difference to visitors. "The Lakeside Camp Store is nice and has a to-go counter for food. The facilities, overall, were well maintained and clean. Firewood is for sale for $6 per bundle," notes Jeremy W. Bathhouses with private shower stalls receive regular maintenance throughout peak seasons.
Multiple camping styles: Options beyond tent sites. Don's Cab-Inns Campground offers varied accommodation types. "These cabins have plenty of room for a family or couple getaway. The AC is very welcoming after a long hot day outside and mini fridge is perfect to unload your cooler from traveling. Also, an outlet to charge your phone," explains Mel T. Code-locked doors eliminate the need for physical keys.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Year-round options limited. Winter camping requires planning as many facilities close. "One of the few campgrounds open during the winter with facilities," mentions Stephen D. about Don's Cab-Inns. Exposed campsites can experience significant temperature drops between day and night.
Site selection: Terrain varies significantly. Greenbrier River Trail Primitive Campsite offers both shelter and tent options. "The Dale McCutcheon Shelter was so clean and comfortable, it's hard to call this primitive camping. All campsites on the Greenbrier River Trail are first come-first served...no reservations," notes Dave V. Horse-friendly sites typically require advance planning due to limited availability.
Cell service: Limited connectivity. Many horse camping areas have little to no reception. "No Verizon service or WiFi. We go here to get away," reports Keith F. about Fairy Stone State Park. Emergency communication options should be planned in advance, especially for those traveling with horses.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Structured options available. Fairy Stone State Park offers ranger programs for children. "We loved all the ranger programs, especially finding all the fairy stones. Kayaking was fun," says Bonnie T. Evening nature walks allow children to see nocturnal wildlife active in horse-friendly camping areas.
Swimming options: Kid-friendly areas. Bolar Mountain Recreation Area provides designated swimming zones. "This place is amazing. I could stay here every weekend and not get tired of it. Warm water, fresh air, no service," shares Blake B. The main beach areas include shallow sections for younger children separated from deeper swimming zones.
Educational opportunities: Wildlife and geology lessons. Parks maintain interpretive centers with displays about local ecology. "There is also a very cool bee hive at the visitor center - check it out!" recommends Kirsten J. Horse-camping families can combine riding with nature identification activities.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Prepare for varied terrain. Equestrian camping sites typically require additional equipment for leveling. "The sites are a little rough but easy to level your rig. The park has great trails around it, they can be pretty challenging when it comes to elevation gain," advises Keith F. Horse trailer parking often requires specific site selection.
Campground layout: Navigation challenges. Multi-loop campgrounds can be confusing for first-time visitors. "Overall the campground is pretty big and a bit of a maze getting around, we needed to use the park map a lot! Probably due to the park being so old there are a lot of old buildings not in use that are pretty cool," shares Katie M. Equestrian camping areas are typically located in specific sections with dedicated trailer access.
Hook-up differences: Research site utilities. Water and electric services vary by site and season. "Half a dozen RV spaces and cabin rentals and yurts. And education classes for children. mountain biking. quiet location," notes Terry F. about Explore Park's Don's Cab-Inns. Horse-specific sites may offer different amenities than standard RV sites.
