Equestrian camping near Thaxton, Virginia offers visitors access to heavily forested mountain terrain within the Appalachian foothills. The region sits at elevations ranging from 1,000 to 2,000 feet with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F and spring/fall temperatures hovering between 45-70°F. Most horse-friendly campsites in the area require advance booking during peak seasons from April through October.
What to do
Hunting for fairy stones: Visit Fairy Stone State Park Campground where campers can search for unique cross-shaped minerals. "We learned about the mysterious 'Fairy Stones' and went to the hunt site to see for ourselves. Sure enough - we found several fairy stones and the kids were very happy!" explains Kirsten J.
Water activities: Explore the lakes and rivers throughout the region for fishing, swimming and boating. "The water was beautiful, temperature perfect for swimming. There's a separate beach that you can drive to that is roped off for swimming purposes but we rather enjoyed walking to the water from our site and having what seemed like our own little swimming spot," notes Joanna G. from Bolar Mountain Recreation Area.
Mountain biking: Take advantage of extensive trail networks suitable for various skill levels. "We did a decent amount of biking here, the main road is nice for road biking, we rode out about 15 miles and back, saw a black bear. Beautiful country roads. And the trails are great for mountain biking. Bring your legs, lots of climbing!" shares Robyn S.
What campers like
Dark sky viewing: James River State Park Campground offers exceptional stargazing opportunities. "This is a wonderful spot for viewing the stars because of the lack of light pollution. James River State Park has been named an International Dark Sky Park," notes Daryl L.
Primitive sites with water access: Campers appreciate the quiet natural settings with direct access to water. "I enjoyed my stay in this wooded campground. The sites were equipped with fire rings and picnic tables and level, gravel areas to park cars in front of your site. A creek ran nearby the campground and there were options for trails," reports Virginia G.
Large, well-spaced sites: Douthat State Park Campground provides ample room between campsites. "A favorite of our for years! All types of sites and hookups plus cabins. Fishing, lake swimming, hiking, educational opportunities galore. Security is good but not overwhelming," shares Cathy L.
What you should know
Campsite selection strategy: Different camping areas offer varying levels of privacy and access. "Douthat is really four separate campgrounds. Three of them are located near the lake. White Oak Campground is larger, wooded, and has a significant elevation change between different sites. Caution should be used with large rigs as the low-water bridge to White Oak has steep approach and departure angles," advises Jeremy W.
Off-the-grid experience: Cell service is limited or non-existent in many campgrounds. "We like going during the week in the summer, it can get busy on the lake on weekends. Other than that it is quiet and we've never had a noise problem," explains Nicole R. from Bolar Mountain Recreation Area.
Seasonal weather considerations: Be prepared for temperature fluctuations and bugs. "We would definitely be back to this site - but I recommend stronger bug spray. We all left with more bites than we usually do camping!" warns Kirsten J.
Tips for camping with families
Educational programs: Take advantage of ranger-led activities designed for children. "The programming was also amazing for our eight and four-year old boys. Ranger Lexie hunted legendary fairystones with our kids and they haven't stopped talking about the magic of the hunt!" shares Russell C.
Alternative accommodations: Red Oak Campground offers cabins that work well for families with young children. "We rented a cabin with fantastic sunset views. This park has great walking and equine trails, a fantastic visitor center, and a wonderful outdoor park/adventure zone for the kiddos," recommends Jamie B.
Swimming areas: Look for designated beach areas with shallow sections for younger swimmers. "The lake is perfect for little ones and even grownup kids. Also love the trails that surround the campground," notes Ryan Z.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Don's Cab-Inns Campground provides electric sites suitable for RVs. "All new facilities and only $25 a night. Electric on the site, water and dump station located nearby. Half a dozen RV spaces and cabin rentals and yurts," reports Terry F.
Level sites: Look for campgrounds with flatter terrain for easier setup. "Campground is very new and bath facilities are immaculate. No shade at sites (hot July day)," cautions Ross P.
Site reservation timing: Book well in advance for equestrian-friendly sites with RV access. "We stayed here for two nights in the middle of the week in the summer of 2019. I stayed in one of the lakeside sites. Generally this is a nice campground...not too big and pretty quiet. Downsides are that it is pretty pricey ($40?) and the sites by the lake are not especially private, actually the area is pretty much wide open," advises Thomas R.
