Equestrian camping near Lackey, Virginia offers access to wooded riding trails through the Chesapeake region's coastal lowlands. The area sits at the convergence of the James River watershed and the Chesapeake Bay, creating diverse terrain for trail riding through pine forests and wetland areas. Campsites specifically designed for horse owners provide amenities including hitching posts and wider parking areas to accommodate trailers.
What to do
Trail riding year-round: Chippokes State Park Campground maintains accessible equestrian trails during all seasons. "Feels country-esque but also like you're on a plantation! Beautiful trails. Great (paved) campground! Feels like you're a million miles away from it all," notes visitor Ashley I.
River access for horses: Kiptopeke State Park Campground offers designated water access points where horses can cool down after trail rides. "Virginia has some wonderful state parks and this is one of my favorites. Its got a nice beach, boat launch and a couple miles of hiking trails," reports Stuart M.
Fishing breaks between rides: Many equestrian campers bring fishing gear to utilize riverfront access. "Hunt for sharks teeth on the beach. Pool is very clean," mentions Danielle H., highlighting activities available between trail rides.
What campers like
Spacious sites for equipment: Northwest River Park & Campground provides larger sites appropriate for horse trailers. "Plenty of room..showers/bathrooms huge..water NOT at all sites but easy to fill tanks," explains Gary D., noting the practical layout for equestrians.
Clean facilities: Riders appreciate returning to well-maintained shower facilities after dusty trail rides. "Overall amazed at the cleanliness of the campground. The staff is very friendly. The park was very quiet going into the night," states Joseph H.
Natural setting: Wooded campsites provide shade for horses and riders during summer months. "Sites are small but the park does not fill up during the week. There are a few hikes leading back to the river. Canoes and paddle boats are available to rent for use in black water," adds Heather L.
What you should know
Seasonal water levels: Chesapeake Campground and surrounding horse trails can flood during rainy periods. "They need to no that if you go on a rainy season bring boots," advises Anna S., warning about soggy conditions that can affect trail quality.
Reservation systems vary: Some equestrian campgrounds use different booking systems that can complicate modifications. "If I camp here, I will make the reservations directly with the park and not online," recommends Nicole L. after experiencing difficulties changing dates.
Limited water access: Not all equestrian sites have direct water hookups. "Water NOT at all sites but easy to fill tanks," notes Gary D., suggesting riders bring portable water containers for their horses.
Tips for camping with families
Educational opportunities: Chippokes State Park Campground combines horse trails with historical education. "This hidden gem is just a short distance from Williamsburg but yet so remote! The still working farm and homes are a treasure of how life and farms ran back in the day," explains Rose H.
Water activities after riding: Children can enjoy swimming while horses rest. "The water at the beaches is so shallow great for my son! It's a beautiful place," shares Susan P.
Multiple activities on-site: Families appreciate having options beyond horseback riding. "Plenty of things to do for the active camper. Put put golf, kayak, hiking and much more," mentions Patricia L.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for trailers: Experienced equestrian campers recommend requesting specific site numbers when traveling with both RVs and horse trailers. "Try and get C loop spots 15 - 21. They're shaded and at the back of the loop," suggests Aaron S.
Leveling challenges: Some equestrian sites require additional equipment for proper setup. "The sites are gravel and mostly level but I did have to use a couple blocks of my levelers," explains Sheri K.
Electrical considerations: When camping with horses, select sites with appropriate power for both RV needs and any electrical equipment for equine care. "Nice easy back-in sites, full hookups in good working order, and friendly hosts," notes Elizabeth N.
