Equestrian camping near Toms Brook, Virginia offers access to the George Washington National Forest with elevations ranging from 1,000 to 4,000 feet. The region experiences mild springs and falls with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during the day, though mountain areas can be significantly cooler. Campgrounds in this area are typically open from May through November, with most facilities closing during winter months due to seasonal road conditions.
What to do
Fishing ponds with stocked species: At Big Meadows Campground, campers can enjoy fishing in nearby waters. "We saw many deer and bear while camping. Just being in Shenandoah is a soothing experience. With so many hiking trails and waterfalls nearby we love to camp in Big Meadows," notes Rachel M.
Hiking to geological features: The trails at Trout Pond Recreation Area offer unique natural sights. A camper reports, "We hiked around Rock Cliff Lake and observed petrified wood. Swimming is excellent with sand beach. Big catfish in clear water. Water was so clean that it was throbbing with anfreshwater jellyfish."
Shooting range access: For those interested in target practice during their camping trip, The Cove Campground provides facilities. "This Campground had everything I wanted. Shooting range, ATV trails, fishing, hiking and great campsites," shares Ben M. The outdoor range adds a recreational option not commonly found at standard campgrounds.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The natural surroundings at Big Meadows Campground provide excellent wildlife watching. "You will definitely see deer in the campground as they walk through and browse the understory. They are unafraid of humans unless directly approached," explains Veronica S.
Clean facilities: Campers appreciate the maintenance standards at several locations. "Campground is meticulously clean with daily restroom cleaning and trash pick up. Very small campground store on site but a much larger store at visitor center. Nice amphitheater with interesting ranger programs," reports Kim L.
Ranger programs: Educational offerings enhance the camping experience. "Nice amphitheater with interesting ranger programs. Busy traffic in park but nice trails are accessible from campground. Visitor Center, gas station, food walking distance from campground," according to a recent visitor.
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Cell service can be spotty or non-existent throughout horse camping areas near Toms Brook. A visitor to The Cove Campground noted, "WiFi signal weak and intermittent, even close to router." Some campgrounds have installed emergency phones as a backup option.
Varying bathroom quality: Facilities range widely in condition and amenities. One camper reported, "There are 3 not so great bath houses and the only reason I didn't give 5 stars. Only 1 sink, 2 stalls, and 1 shower in each and a stall in 2 of them was out of order."
Seasonal closures: Access restrictions apply during winter months. "The area closes completely (entrance gate is locked) from Dec 21 - May 1. The site was super clean and well maintained," reports John B. about his experience at Trout Pond Recreation Area.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Graves Mountain Farm Campground offers additional entertainment for younger campers. "For kids, there is a duck pond, chicken coop, shallow brook, disable farm tractor, and some other stuff to play with/on/in across the street near the lodge," explains Matt.
Animal encounters: Children particularly enjoy the farm animals at some locations. "Free range horses (they're penned-in) come back at dusk and head out at dawn -- fun to watch from the campground, especially for kiddos," notes a visitor to Graves Mountain Farm Campground.
Insect preparedness: Be ready for seasonal bugs in equestrian camping environments. "The bugs when we got here were kinda crazy. They don't bite but they swarm your head and try to enter every orifice for some reason. A head net was helpful to get the tent and screen room set up," advises Veronica S.
Tips from RVers
Site length considerations: At The Cove Campground, campers with larger rigs should plan accordingly. "Mid-August was a gamble as to weather. It was gorgeous weather! In the valley and surrounded by beautiful mountain views it was 80 daytime and ~60 at night. We were in site 12 which was small for our RV (22 ft total pulled by our F-150) but we worked it out."
Mountain driving challenges: Access roads can be steep and winding. "There are some pretty steep inclines to even get to the campgrounds. Unless you have a powerful vehicle pulling your camper, it would help to release your water supply and fill up when you get to the campground," recommends Chris J. about approaching Trout Pond Recreation Area.
Electric hookup limitations: Check amperage before arrival as it varies between campgrounds. "It states online that it's only 15amp electric at 14 of their sites," notes a Trout Pond camper, suggesting that RVers with higher power requirements should verify availability before booking.
