Pocahontas State Park Campground sits just 20 miles southwest of Richmond, Virginia, within the Central Virginia Piedmont region where mixed hardwood forests dominate the gently rolling landscape. The park encompasses 7,900 acres at an average elevation of 230 feet above sea level, creating an accessible equestrian destination with minimal elevation changes on most trails. Weather conditions remain mild enough for year-round trail riding with summer highs rarely exceeding 90°F and winter temperatures seldom dropping below freezing for extended periods.
What to do
Trail Riding Access Points: Multiple trailheads connect directly to the camping area at Pocahontas State Park Campground, providing convenient starting points for daily rides. "Powhatan Trail entrance is right off the loop and lovely, even in December," notes camper N P., highlighting the year-round accessibility of the trail system.
Fishing Opportunities: The park features several water bodies suitable for fishing breaks between trail rides. "Lots of trails, nature center, pool, and creek for kayaking and fishing. You can also rent water equipment while you're there. Very good for beginners," shares Samantha G. about the diverse water activities available.
Mountain Biking Options: The park maintains separate trail systems for bikers and horses to prevent conflicts. Ashley I. notes, "Great State Park campground! No sewer hookups (they do have 30/50amp). Lots of hiking, fantastic mountain bike trails, lots of history. LOVE the staff."
What campers like
Spacious Sites: The campground layout at Powhatan State Park provides ample room between sites for horse trailers and camping equipment. "Sites are very spacious and good distance between other campers. Nice privacy," reports Jim L., highlighting the layout that accommodates equestrian needs.
Clean Facilities: Bathroom facilities receive consistent praise for maintenance standards. Glenn T. from Pocahontas State Park mentions, "Well laid out sites, clean restrooms and showers," which is particularly important for longer equestrian camping stays.
Wooded Setting: The natural environment enhances the camping experience while providing shade for horses. Gregg S. observes, "Some of the campsites are surrounded with forest. Very quiet and peaceful," describing the serene atmosphere that benefits both riders and horses.
What you should know
Site Selection Strategy: Choose sites carefully based on your equestrian needs at Bear Creek Lake State Park Campground. "We had a non-reservable site in the Black Oak loop—sites were tiny and very close together, but it was still pretty quiet even on a full weekend. The lakeside spots on the Acorn loop looked really nice and much more spacious," advises Karin P.
Seasonal Variations: Trail conditions can change dramatically with weather. "Pack your bags and go!" encourages N P. about Pocahontas State Park, but notes December riding requires preparation with "almost total darkness at night."
Water Access Planning: Identify water sources for horses before riding. Erica M. recommends Bear Creek Lake: "It has a lake for swimming, boating, and fishing. There are programs every weekend. There is even an archery range. There are hiking trails throughout as well."
Tips for camping with families
Playground Proximity: Chippokes State Park Campground offers amenities that complement equestrian activities. Philip S. shares, "There's plenty to do on the grounds, hiking, biking, touring the plantation, geocaching, and yes, even Pokemon Go!" providing options for non-riders in your group.
Educational Opportunities: Historical features add dimension to equestrian camping trips. Rose H. notes about Chippokes, "The still working farm and homes are a treasure of how life and farms ran back in the day and how they can survive into the future."
Swimming Options: After dusty trail rides, cooling off is essential. "The water at the beaches is so shallow great for my son! It's a beautiful place!" reports Susan P. about the family-friendly water features at Chippokes State Park.
Tips from RVers
Hookup Limitations: At Powhatan State Park Campground, understand the facilities available for RVs with horse trailers. Ashley I. advises, "Campground is waaayyy back in the back of park. Only a few years old. No full hookup (yes 30/50 amp). Well maintained trails, level sites."
Size Restrictions: Bear Creek Lake has specific limitations. Erica M. warns, "Limit on RV length to 35 feet. This includes tow vehicle and trailer," which is crucial information for those bringing larger horse trailers.
Leveling Challenges: Site topography varies across equestrian camping areas. Jim L. from Powhatan State Park observes, "Sites are very spacious and good distance between other campers. Nice privacy. Large Bath house dump stations were great. Some sites were very level. We were on site seven which was very long but very unlevel."
