Equestrian camping opportunities near Ansted, West Virginia offer trail access through the surrounding mountains at elevations between 1,500-2,500 feet. Located near the New River Gorge National Park, these horse campgrounds provide access to trail systems through hardwood forests that remain cool even during summer months. Equestrian camping facilities typically maintain designated areas for trailers and separate sites for overnight horse accommodations.
What to do
Waterfall hiking: Camp Creek State Park offers trails to multiple waterfalls within hiking distance of campsites. "Two very nice waterfalls. The first waterfall is on a road right by the modern campground so of course we had to visit," reports Cynthia K. of Camp Creek State Park Campground.
River activities: Cool off in local waterways after trail rides or during hot weather. One camper at Cranberry River Sites NF Campground noted, "The fishing here is the best around with beautiful waterfalls like big ruff and the ducks are so colorful like no other."
Biking: Several campgrounds connect to rail trails and biking paths. Joe B. from Camp Creek State Park Campground shares, "There are trails and gravel roads all around the campground. I received a map at check in, and decided to ride my mountainbike to the top of 'Neely Knob'. It was quite a climb!"
Trail exploration: Horse trails connect to various terrain types, from riverside paths to mountain ascents. Mike F. from Cranberry River Sites NF Campground explains, "The main trail is graveled and very easily accessed. It runs along the Cranberry River with beautiful views all along the way."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Bathhouses and shower facilities receive positive reviews near Ansted's equestrian camping areas. According to Lee D. from Mash Fork Campground — Camp Creek State Park, "Bath/Shower House was very clean. Instant hot water was appreciated at the tap (it was in the 30s when we were there in mid-October)."
River proximity: Sites positioned near waterways offer cooling relief after trail rides. Rachel L. states about Camp Creek State Park, "The walk down to the creek behind our campsite is very easy and only a few steps."
Wildlife observation: Opportunities to view local wildlife complement equestrian experiences. Joseph K. from Cranberry River Sites simply noted, "There are bears," highlighting the presence of wildlife in the area.
Shelters and structures: Some campgrounds feature covered structures for weather protection. Dave V. from Greenbrier River Trail Mile Post 9.5 Primitive Campsite describes, "The Dale McCutcheon Shelter was so clean and comfortable, it's hard to call this primitive camping."
What you should know
Bear safety requirements: Food storage protocols protect both campers and wildlife. Mike F. from Cranberry River Sites advises, "One thing to remember is always hang your food at night. Bears will come in and make themselves at home!"
Seasonal bathhouse closures: Verify facility availability during shoulder seasons. Jessica D. from Mash Fork Campground cautions, "Even though the campground is open year round, the bathrooms are not. We were told there was one open bathroom however it was not made clear this was 1-2 miles away."
Slippery waterfalls: Exercise caution at popular water features. Rachel L. from Camp Creek warns, "The reason for the warning is that if you visit Campbell falls, BEWARE it is extremely slippery. The brown algae makes it very slick and no shoe will handle it."
Firewood availability: Some horse campgrounds near Ansted require advance planning for campfires. Kelly M. noted about New & Gauley River Adventures, "Athough the check-in attendant was very nice, he 'didn't get around to' chopping any firewood, so he sent me to a neighboring campground to buy some."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas near equestrian facilities. Lee D. from Mash Fork Campground notes amenities including, "Playground, basketball, volleyball, laundry, several hiking trails including trails to two waterfalls, and an ADA-accessible short trail."
Swimming spots: Identify safe water access points for after-ride cooling. Jamie H. from Cranberry River Sites shares, "If your looking for a weekend getaway or a week long rest. Look no farther. The fishing here is the best around with beautiful waterfalls."
Campsite selection: Choose sites that balance shade with open space for family activities. Nicole M. from Mash Fork Campground advises, "Many trees along edge of the campground but not very many in the center, so the sites on the outer loop have more shade if that's what you're looking for."
Activity planning: Schedule non-equestrian activities between trail rides. Judy W. from New & Gauley River Adventures observed, "This is a family run, business that gives back to the community. Our guides, Brian and Mason were efficient, conscientious, and FUN!!!"
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: RV pads near equestrian facilities may require leveling equipment. Beth R. from Elk River Camp and RV Park notes challenges during their stay: "Gravel pad, one lane road in & out, under construction, 42' 5th wheel drug bumper to/from campground."
Hookup verification: Confirm electrical capacity before booking horse campgrounds that accommodate RVs. John R. from Elk River Camp and RV Park explains, "Mix of wonderful water and electric sites with ok full hookups. Beautiful river spots. The owner was wonderful. No laundry, showers or wifi."
Campground accessibility: Some equestrian facilities have limited access for larger rigs. Jennifer B. observes about River Expeditions, "The RV camp sites are too close together for my taste and the gravel parking spots are all on a slant, so it would be a challenge for larger trailers to get level there."
Winter camping options: Year-round sites accommodate equestrian camping in cooler months. Bob M. from Camp Creek State Park Campground shares, "We stayed 3 nights here, enjoyed it very much even though the power was out due to Hurricane Helene's wrath."
