Equestrian camping in southwest Virginia lets riders explore the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area's scenic trails at elevations between 2,500 and 5,700 feet. Horse campgrounds near Wytheville, Virginia offer direct access to trail networks with options for both primitive and developed sites, with many campgrounds maintaining hitching posts, corrals, and water access points for horses.
What to do
Trail riding on Virginia Highlands Horse Trail: Access 68 miles of dedicated equestrian trails from Fox Creek Horse Camp connecting to the larger Mount Rogers trail system. "With a wide network of multi-use trails in this area, Fox Creek Horse Camp provides a nice base for exploring on horseback," notes Jean C. Sites cost just $5 per night with basic facilities.
Visit Stone Mountain State Park: Explore multiple waterfall hikes and scenic overlooks within a 45-minute drive. "Great hikes and area for the family. Beautiful scenery and some great swimming holes," reports Stacey S. about Stone Mountain State Park Campground.
Observe wildlife: Watch for native species including wild ponies at Chestnut Hollow Horse Campground in Grayson Highlands. "Bobcats, black bear, & wild horses... Saw a family of black bear about a mile from camp then a bobcat in camp later that day!" reports Kelly C.
What campers like
Water features for horses: Streams provide natural watering spots at several equestrian campgrounds. Jean C. notes at Old Virginia Group Horse Camp: "There is a stream at the site where the horses may drink. There's enough space for a number of trailers, including large ones, and up to 25 horses."
Value pricing: Affordable rates make extended stays possible. Michael W. comments about Fox Creek Horse Camp: "Passed thru found it. Looks remarkable and remote. $5.00 or less with pass."
Well-maintained facilities: Campers appreciate clean bathroom facilities and grounds. At Mash Fork Campground, Nicole M. notes: "Showers were the best of any campground I've seen- water gets as hot as you'd like, with great water pressure and plenty of hooks and towel racks. Laundry room available in bathhouse."
What you should know
Limited services at primitive sites: Many horse campgrounds require self-sufficiency. Jean C. advises about Old Virginia Group Horse Camp: "There is no potable water available, so plan to bring your own. No cell service."
Seasonal availability varies: Most equestrian campgrounds operate seasonally from April through October/November. Fox Creek Horse Camp is open April 1 to December 31, while some sites may offer primitive camping options in early spring.
Weather considerations: Exposed areas can experience extreme conditions. Scott B. warns about Chestnut Hollow: "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! The windchill was a serious issue for some in our group so bring lots of layers and gloves."
Tips for camping with families
Check for kid-friendly amenities: Some campgrounds feature playgrounds and shallow creeks. Ann H. recommends Sandy Creek Family Campground: "The kids enjoyed playing in the creek and on the playground. The grounds are adjacent to the Stone Mountain State Park."
Choose sites with easy waterfall access: Several campgrounds connect directly to waterfall trails. Jimmy M. notes about Sandy Creek: "Access to a sliding rock and waterfall in Stone Mountain State Park with an approximate 1 mile easy hike."
Pack for variable conditions: Weather can change rapidly in mountain areas. Temperatures in spring and fall regularly drop below freezing at night, even when days are mild, requiring appropriate clothing layers.
Tips from RVers
Water and power availability: Electric sites are limited at horse campgrounds. At Stone Mountain State Park Campground, David B. shares: "I stayed here for three nights in early November, 2022. The camp sites are mostly level, well maintained and have tent pads, tables and fire rings. I chose a site that had water and electric hook-ups."
Dump station access: Plan for limited services at smaller equestrian campgrounds. Becca C. notes about Sandy Creek Family Campground: "The biggest negative I would say was the dump station. It was on the hill so you had to back up to it and it wasn't easy location to do so."
Site leveling considerations: Choose your spot carefully in primitive areas. Jean C. mentions about Fox Creek Horse Camp: "Sites have a gravel/grass pads, picnic table, and fire ring. Portable toilets available. Bring your own water. No hookups provided."
Legend
