Equestrian camping near Raphine, Virginia offers access to extensive trail networks across multiple state parks and recreation areas. Located in the western portion of Virginia's Shenandoah Valley at approximately 1,400 feet elevation, this region experiences moderate summers and cool evenings even during peak camping seasons. Most equestrian campsites in the area sit among hardwood forests that provide natural shade for horses during summer months.
What to do
Trail riding adventures: James River State Park Campground offers multiple trail difficulty levels for riders with varying experience. "This park is in one of my favorite parts of VA. Very beautiful area with plenty of off grid seclusion! It's a nice scenic drive getting to the park on a quiet and well maintained back road," notes John R.
Lake activities: At Douthat State Park Campground, riders can combine trail time with water recreation. "We stayed here 4 days and 3 nights in November. We use a teardrop camper so we appreciated the water and electric hookup. A stream runs beside the campground and the lake, though small, is nice to paddle around in a kayak," shares Diane P.
Mountain trail exploration: Riders seeking more challenging terrain can access trail networks at Bolar Mountain Recreation Area. One camper reports, "The views were amazing and beautiful. I can't wait to go back again, we loved it." For riders with fishing interests, the area offers additional recreational options: "Campground 2 site 53 has a nice private beach area where you can go fishing or swim."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the well-maintained amenities at equestrian campgrounds. "The bathrooms were incredibly clean and heated. Showers were terrific as well. Staff were kind and knowledgeable," reports Diane P. about Douthat State Park.
Spacious sites: Red Oak Campground at James River State Park offers ample room for those traveling with horses. "The sites are generously sized and flat," notes one reviewer about the riverside camping areas, while another mentions, "The grounds and river access are stunning."
Wildlife viewing: The natural setting allows for animal sightings during morning and evening trail rides. At Greenbrier River Trail camps, one visitor observed: "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."
What you should know
Reservation options: Most equestrian sites require advance booking, especially during peak season. At Douthat State Park, "all types of sites and hookups plus cabins" are available but fill quickly from May through September.
Trail restrictions: Different parks have varying rules about trail access for horses. "Multiple hiking and biking trails throughout the park are also accessible for horseback riding, with clear signage indicating which trails permit horses," notes a camper from Douthat State Park.
Water availability: Greenbrier River Trail Milepost 63.8 Primitive Campsite offers basic amenities for horses and riders. "Cold well water - Hand pump" is available at primitive sites, with one reviewer noting, "All you need for a great time, nothing more and nothing less!"
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Lakes provide cooling relief after trail rides. At Bolar Mountain, one camper explains, "We had the pleasure of having a campsite with lake view and access. The campsite was spacious and shaded, they do offer doubles for larger groups."
Educational activities: James River State Park offers learning opportunities alongside riding. "Educational opportunities galore. Security is good but not overwhelming," shares one visitor about the park's programming.
Weather considerations: Pack for variable conditions when camping with children. "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," advises a Greenbrier River Trail camper.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RV campers with horses should check specific loop accommodations. "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," notes Jeremy W. about Douthat State Park.
Hookup availability: Electric and water access varies between equestrian camping areas. "We use a teardrop camper so we appreciated the water and electric hookup (although we disconnected the water at night to prevent freezing)," shares one winter visitor to Douthat State Park.
Access considerations: Some equestrian areas have limitations for larger rigs. "Caution should be used with large rigs as the low-water bridge to White Oak has steep approach and departure angles," warns a reviewer about one section of Douthat State Park.
