Equestrian camping near Mount Solon, Virginia provides access to the Monongahela National Forest trail system with elevations ranging from 2,000 to over 4,800 feet. The region experiences distinct seasonal changes with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during day and 55-65°F at night. Trails remain accessible through most seasons, with spring bringing muddy conditions and fall offering prime riding weather with reduced insect activity.
What to do
Explore Spruce Knob Summit: Take a day trip from your campsite to West Virginia's highest point at 4,863 feet. "We parked at the summit, descended down and came back up. It was one of the most gorgeous trails I've ever experienced and highly, highly recommend it for a quick weekend backpack," writes Emily S. about Spruce Knob Lake Campground.
Fish stocked waterways: The regional streams and lakes receive regular trout stocking throughout the season. "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," notes Tim M. about Laurel Fork Campground.
Ride the Durbin Rocket: Experience a historical steam locomotive ride adjacent to camping areas. "Nice 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!" shares Harold C. about East Fork Campground and Horse Stables.
What campers like
Secluded creek-side camping: Find private spots along waterways for natural white noise and fishing access. "Very nice campground with water and electric right on the river for $32, clean bathrooms and showers, and very nice owners," writes Richard about East Fork Campground and Horse Stables.
Dark skies for stargazing: The area's minimal light pollution creates exceptional night sky viewing opportunities. "Download your maps before you come, because there's no cell service and you'll truly get away. In mid April the capmground had plenty of space, but nearby Spruce Knob Lake was encircled by fishers seeking trout from the latest release. You're in the middle of nowhere, so you do have a truly dark sky," notes Jean C. about Spruce Knob Lake Campground.
Dispersed camping options: For those seeking more primitive experiences, the forest offers designated dispersed camping areas. "We picked a spot about halfway into the dispersed camping area, creek side along the Gandy creek. We were closer to the road than we wanted to be but because the past few days had been beautiful spring weather, the area was packed," shares Melanie S. about Gandy Creek Dispersed Camping.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Most camping areas have limited or no cellular connectivity. "It's very remote, but your at the top of a mountain so it's gorgeous. Pit toilet, no sinks or sanitizer. Limited running water. They do sell wood from the camp host. Do not expect cell service, we didn't have any for about 45 min driving there," warns Brittany M. about Spruce Knob Lake Campground.
Weather preparation essential: Mountain elevations cause rapid weather changes. "We did this hike in March and there was a thin layer of snow on the ground when we started that quickly accumulated while we hiked and then overnight as we slept. Quick heads up to be prepared if you're going to do this because I definitely got pretty cold," cautions Emily S. about hiking near Spruce Knob.
Flood risk assessment: Low-lying campsites near streams may experience flooding during heavy rains. "I stopped at Yokum's Store to get my camping permit and drove to the Lower Campgrounds by the river. I couldn't figure out why I was the only one picking a choice spot by the river. The first night was great. I should have checked the weather. The skies opened up, a large limb fell on my tent and the water level began rising," recounts Kelly G. about Yokums Vacationland.
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The region offers excellent animal sighting chances for children. "The amount of wildlife we saw throughout the day was incredible while biking the trail. Mostly deer, rabbit, chipmunks and Eastern Box Turtles sharing the trail...but we did see a few turkey, fox and bobcat," reports Dave V. about Greenbrier River Trail.
Accessible fishing spots: Several locations offer kid-friendly fishing areas. "Spruce Knob Lake is one of my favorite places to visit in the area. It's a great place to take a day trip to for fishing or site seeing. They have an awesome wooded hiking trail that goes around the entire lake approximately 1 mile long," suggests Adam W. about Spruce Knob Lake.
Farm activities: Some campgrounds include agricultural experiences. "For kids, there is a duck pond, chicken coop, shallow brook, disable farm tractor, and some other stuff to play with/on/in across the street near the lodge. Free range horses come back at dusk and head out at dawn -- fun to watch from the campground, especially for kiddos," notes Matt about Graves Mountain Farm Campground.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup information: Confirm specific hookup details before arrival. "It states online that it's only 15amp electric at 14 of their sites. Mid-August was a gamble as to weather. It was gorgeous weather! We found that sites 1, 3, 5, 7, and 9 are FHU (not sure what amp electric though)," shares Laure D. about Trout Pond Recreation Area.
Road gradient considerations: Mountain access roads may have challenging inclines. "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," advises Chris J. about Trout Pond Recreation Area.
Site size variability: Expect significant differences in site dimensions across campgrounds. "We were in site 12 which was small for our RV (22 ft total pulled by our F-150) but we worked it out. Site 11 and 13 both look nice and a bit more length to them and have electric (15 amp)," explains Laure D. about managing RV parking at Trout Pond.
