Equestrian camping near Roanoke, Virginia allows riders to experience the Blue Ridge Mountains from horseback while enjoying overnight accommodations. Located in Virginia's Ridge and Valley province with elevations ranging from 900 to 3,000 feet, the area features a moderate climate with distinct seasons. Trail systems connect multiple horse-friendly campgrounds with varying terrain from river valleys to mountain overlooks.
What to do
Trail riding on Greenbrier River Trail: Access this 77-mile trail system that accommodates various riding abilities with terrain options for beginners through experienced riders. "We stayed here for the night on our way over to Johnson City from Shenandoah NP. It was a really nice, clean and relaxing place to do so. The dogs were able to go swimming before the lake opened up in the morning and everything was very clean. There were also many hiking options," notes a visitor to Douthat State Park Campground.
Swimming with horses: Cool off in designated water access areas during summer months when temperatures average 75-85°F. "Our family loved this campground! It is close to Roanoke and it is off the Blue Ridge Parkway. It is located in Explore Park. This park is growing by leaps and bounds. It has mountain bike trails, a cool vintage village, access to the Roanoke River, an aerial obstacle course, and more cool stuff," shares a camper from Don's Cab-Inns Campground.
Primitive camping along the trail: Experience more secluded camping at designated spots between Keister and Hopper, WV. "Trail conditions got soft and muddy after the previous night's deluge through the more heavily wooded areas, once the trail was exposed to constant sun, it dried quickly. Blow-down did slow us down a few times," reports a rider at Greenbrier River Trail.
What campers like
Year-round accessibility: Unlike some seasonal facilities, certain campgrounds remain open throughout winter. "One of the few campgrounds open during the winter with facilities," notes a winter visitor at Douthat State Park Campground.
Clean facilities: Consistently maintained restrooms and shower facilities receive high marks. "Campground is very new and bath facilities are immaculate. No shade at sites (hot July day)," reports a camper from Fairy Stone State Park Campground.
Trail connectivity: Direct access to multiple trail systems from camping areas. "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!"
What you should know
Campground layout variations: Each camping area has distinct characteristics. "Douthat is really four separate campgrounds. Three of them (i.e. not Whispering Pines) are located near the lake. Each one had a campground host (volunteer) and wood for sale."
Seasonal considerations: Summer heat can impact camping comfort at exposed sites. "Campground is very new and bath facilities are immaculate. No shade at sites (hot July day). Restaurant (Brewpub) is only open fridays and saturdays which was disappointing. Tried to swim at the river but it was trashy."
Reservation requirements: Many equestrian sites require advance booking. "We stayed in a Yurt#4 for 2 nights at Fairy Stone State Park, about a 4 hour drive from where we live. The Yurt overall was very clean and cozy."
Tips for camping with families
Fairy stone hunting: Unique activity for children at designated areas. "Perfect places for families. We loved all the ranger programs, especially finding all the fairy stones. Kayaking was fun," shares a family at Fairy Stone State Park Campground.
Educational programs: Ranger-led activities specially designed for young campers. "Our family has camped here multiple times. Great place to stay due to clean facilities and well kept sites. The lake is perfect for little ones and even grownup kids. Also love the trails that surround the campground."
Water activities: Lakes and rivers provide swimming options during summer months. "The park has great trails around it, they can be pretty challenging when it comes to elevation gain. The lake is wonderful. They were updating cabins when we were there last, they look great."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for large rigs: Choose appropriate campgrounds based on vehicle size. "Whispering Pines is a few miles away along the entry road and has a different character. It's a very flat and wide-open campground perfect for big RVs with much larger sites," notes a visitor at Bolar Mountain Recreation Area.
Utility connections: Most equestrian sites offer basic hookups, but amenities vary. "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. And education classes for children."
Access considerations: Some horse camping areas have challenging approach roads. "Caution should be used with large rigs as the low-water bridge to White Oak has steep approach and departure angles."
