Equestrian camping near Narrows, Virginia allows riders to explore the scenic Blue Ridge region from elevations ranging from 1,600-3,000 feet. The area receives approximately 40 inches of annual rainfall, creating lush forest conditions and well-watered trails throughout most of the year. Trail conditions vary significantly between spring thaw and late summer with stream crossings often higher during April and May.
What to do
Waterfall hikes: Several campgrounds near Narrows connect to waterfall trails for day excursions. The waterfalls at Camp Creek State Park are accessible via several trails of varying difficulty. "The waterfalls are a short walk from the campground. Firewood is available and they deliver it to your site. The bundles are quite generous in size," notes Kevin E.
Rock climbing: Visit the New River Gorge for climbing opportunities on natural rock formations. According to a visitor at River Expeditions Campsites, "The New River Gorge is a climber's dream, so we booked an evening of rock climbing with David Wolff, Director of the New River Climbing School and he was amazing!"
Trail riding: Equestrians can access multiple trail networks from horseback camping areas. Trails range from beginner-friendly to advanced, with terrain varying from meadows to mountain slopes. Most horse trails require shoes for horses due to rocky sections, particularly after crossing water.
Swimming spots: Find natural swimming areas along river trails during summer months. "Great swimming Rock Trail South" is noted at the Greenbrier River Trail primitive campsite, with several small cascades along the western side of the trail.
What campers like
Creekside sites: Campers appreciate sites positioned along flowing water. At Mash Fork Campground, Jim P. shared, "The site I use exclusively has a river running behind it and the sounds lull you to sleep any time of day!" Similarly, Julie B. noted, "We were in site number eight, it backed up to the creek and was quite private with the exception of the trail on the other side of the creek."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained campgrounds receive consistent praise. Nicole M. commented about Mash Fork, "Showers were the best of any campground I've seen- water gets as hot as you'd like, with great water pressure and plenty of hooks and towel racks. Laundry room available in bathhouse."
Accessibility for trail users: Campsites with direct trail connections are highly valued. The Greenbrier River Trail Mile Post 9.5 Primitive Campsite offers "Adirondock Style Shelter (New), Raised Tent pads, Picnic Tables, Metal Fire Rings, Large, clean Pit Latrine" according to Dave V., making it convenient for trail users.
What you should know
Seasonal bathroom closures: Some campgrounds restrict facility access in off-seasons. At Mash Fork, Jessica D. warns, "Even though the campground is open year round, the bathrooms are not. We were told there was one open bathroom however it was not made clear this was 1-2 miles away which was not exactly convenient."
Train noise: Campgrounds near railroad tracks experience regular train disturbances. At Glen Lyn Town Park & Campground, camper Hazel S. reports, "There is a train station nearby and the trains are loud. They come by every now and then night and day."
Cell service limitations: Mobile connectivity varies widely across the area. Nicole M. notes at Mash Fork, "No service for Verizon users… Sites have wifi but I could only get it to work 20% of the time." Similarly, Dave V. lists "No Cell Service" as both a pro and con at Greenbrier River Trail Mile Post 9.5.
Seasonal trail conditions: Spring brings higher water levels, while late summer trails may be drier but with more overgrowth. After heavy rains, mudslides occasionally block sections of mountain trails.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer child-friendly play areas. Kelly M. notes that River Expeditions has "a pool and hot tub near the well equipped gift shop, and the Red Dog Saloon and Grill for when you need a break from camp food." At Mash Fork, a reviewer mentioned "Playground, basketball, volleyball" among the available activities.
Short waterfall trails: For families with young children, seek out easier waterfall access. "The waterfalls are easily accessible. Did notice people leaving trash and clothing around them. Garbage cans are all over but people just don't care," reports Fred R. about Camp Creek State Park.
Creek sites for natural play: Book sites adjacent to shallow water features. Julie B. recommends site number eight at Mash Fork that "backed up to the creek and was quite private," providing both recreation and some seclusion.
ADA-accessible options: Some trails accommodate strollers and mobility devices. Lee D. mentions that Camp Creek State Park includes "several hiking trails including trails to two waterfalls, and an ADA-accessible short trail."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many regional RV sites require leveling equipment. At Glen Lyn Town Park, Hazel S. notes the facilities include "water access and a playground," but warns about noise issues affecting sleep quality.
Limited full hookup options: Reserve well in advance for sites with complete utilities. Kevin E. mentions that at Mash Fork, "Many have full hookups and several are right along the creek. The site was very level, as were most sites."
Off-season considerations: Prepare for facility closures during winter months. One camper warns about Mash Fork, "The website information is not accurate so definitely call (we were told when we called that the website is several years out of date)."
Pad quality variation: Look for campgrounds with paved parking areas. Lee D. notes that at Mash Fork, "All camper pads are paved, have a generous camper pad length, and most are spread a decent amount of space apart."
