Fox Creek Horse Camp is situated within Jefferson National Forest, approximately 7 miles from Willis, Virginia. The primitive equestrian campground sits at an elevation of about 3,000 feet with several gravel and grass camping pads available at $5 per night. The surrounding area features mixed hardwood forest with rhododendron thickets that bloom in late spring.
What to do
Trail riding connections: Fox Creek Horse Camp provides direct access to Virginia Highlands Horse Trail. As one visitor notes, "With a wide network of multi-use trails in this area, Fox Creek Horse Camp provides a nice base for exploring on horseback" (Jean C.).
Kayaking nearby: Visitors staying at Cliffhanger Ranch Adventure Outpost can access water recreation at Bark Camp Lake. "We were able to kayak at Bark Camp Lake which was not busy at all and hike at Little Stoney Falls. Plenty to do and see in this area" (Noah O.).
Natural Tunnel exploration: When camping at Clinch River Family Campground, visitors can take day trips to unique geological features. "We chose this campground because it was close to Natural Tunnel and Devils Fork trail (30-45 min). Both of these are worth doing if you are in the area" (Beth B.).
What campers like
River access: Campers appreciate water features at certain campgrounds. "Campground is well maintained, lots of playground equipment for kids and a launch for tubes/kayaks. At main road there is a public launch if you want to put in there and then float to campground" (Beth B.).
Wildlife viewing: The chance to spot wildlife makes Chestnut Hollow Horse Campground popular with visitors. "Saw a Family of black bear about a mile from camp then a bobcat in camp later that day! Great facilities and located very close to Wilbur ridge where the wild ponies are!" (Kelly C.).
Affordable pricing: Budget-conscious campers often mention the reasonable rates at equestrian campgrounds near Willis. "At $5/night, it's hard to beat the price" (Jean C.) when referring to Fox Creek Horse Camp.
What you should know
Weather challenges: Strong winds affect camping in the Grayson Highlands area, particularly at higher elevations. "This place is by far the windiest place I've ever camped in. We couldn't get a proper fire started due to the wind! It was blowing up all over the trails at some points!" (Scott B.).
Water availability: Many primitive horse campgrounds require campers to bring their own water. At Old Virginia Group Horse Camp, "There is no potable water available, so plan to bring your own. There is a stream at the site where the horses may drink" (Jean C.).
Road conditions: Some campgrounds require driving on unpaved roads. "Most of the final road to campground is paved with exception of last mile, its wide enough but slow going. You will lose cellular pretty quickly when you turn on that road" (Beth B.).
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Families should look for campgrounds with kid-friendly amenities. Clinch River Family Campground offers "lots of playground equipment for kids and a launch for tubes/kayaks" (Beth B.).
Safety considerations: Parents need to monitor children around wildlife in these areas. At Chestnut Hollow Horse Campground, visitors mention "wild ponies here (notice the adjective wild) that are not intimidated by people. Do everyone a favor and keep your distance" (Sarah C.).
Swimming access: Check water conditions before planning swimming activities at Cedar Ridge Hammock Campground. During heavy rain periods, rivers may be unsuitable, as one camper noted: "sadly it was right after Tropical Storm Alberto so the river was flooded and we didn't get a chance to swim" (Heather K.).
Tips from RVers
Site layout: RV campers should research site dimensions before arrival. At Chestnut Hollow Horse Campground, "The campsites are back-in along a single spur with turn-around at the end... Sites are long, gravel, relatively level with water/electric" (Jean C.).
Road navigation: Large rigs require careful planning when visiting horse campgrounds near Willis. "The camp on the west side is Dangerous to drive up in a motorhome. I personally drove my 36' up the most curvy incline I wouldn't recommend anyone to give this a second thought if your not a seasoned driver" (Debbie O.).
Hookup availability: Many equestrian campgrounds offer limited or no hookups. At Cherokee Trails Campground and Stables, sites typically include "a fire ring in the middle with benches and tables surrounded by back-in camp sites. There was a nice clean bathhouse with showers" (Holli C.).
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