Equestrian camping near Barboursville, West Virginia includes several designated facilities within a 60-mile radius. The region features mixed hardwood forests with elevations ranging from 580 to 1,200 feet. Most horseback riding trails remain open April through November, though heavy rainfall can create muddy conditions that limit trail access during spring months.
What to do
Trail riding at Lake Vesuvius: The Iron Ridge - Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area offers multiple trail options connected to the campground. "The Whiskey Run Trail, which was short and hilly, but conveniently located right off the campground... passes an impressive rock shelter," notes Brew W. The area features both shoreline and forest riding environments.
Cave exploration: Carter Caves State Resort Park provides unique riding opportunities with cave features. "Lots to do hiking, fishing, caves and caverns to explore. Campgrounds was clean. You will need extra water hose and extension cords to get hooked up in a lot of the sites though," explains Ron & Bonnie D. The park combines riding trails with underground attractions.
Wildlife viewing: Riders can spot diverse wildlife along the trails. "We spotted dozens of does, bucks and fawns during my stay, so keep your eyes peeled because they don't seem terribly cautious around people or cars," reports Jennifer B. about riding at Chief Logan State Park.
What campers like
Private campsites: Iron Ridge campers appreciate the natural separation between sites. "Most of the sites shaded and separated by trees. Love the privacy this provides. Our favorite 'close to home campground'!" writes Chris S. The wooded environment creates natural barriers between camping areas.
Water access: Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area receives praise for its combination of riding trails and water features. "This Recreation Area offers hiking trails, picnic opportunities... The damn provides an excellent place for photos, while the lake is excellent for fishing and birdwatching," says Lisa S. Horses have multiple water access points throughout the trail system.
Seasonal considerations: Fall remains the preferred season for equestrian camping in the region. "Great state park with breathtaking views of creeks along the roadway, wonderful landscape designed by nature, good hiking trails, peaceful campground, and a nice lodge," describes Lisa S. about camping at Carter Caves State Resort Park. Spring offers lush vegetation but higher insect activity.
What you should know
Hookup configurations: Some campgrounds have unusual utility arrangements. At Greenbo Lake State Resort Park, "Started out bad. Had showed up at site with no electricity available. Was told had to share box but only one 30 and one 50 amp. So if you both have a 30 amp the other has to get an adapter for the 50," warns Charles D. Always verify electrical specifications when booking.
Trail conditions: Trail difficulty varies significantly across the region. "Great location to earn some backpacking miles. Feels quite remote, but along the trails there are shelters, bathrooms, trash reciprocals, and other useful hookups," explains Ruby W. about Lake Vesuvius. Trail maps with elevation profiles help riders select appropriate routes.
Site spacing: Campsite proximity varies between parks. At Greenbo Lake State Resort Park, "It's a clean campground, but sites are packed in pretty tight. Not my ideal kind of camping," reports Karen P. Research site maps before booking to ensure adequate space for horse trailers.
Tips for camping with families
Animal encounters: Ashland Huntington West KOA offers family-friendly animal interactions. "Very friendly people and my dog loved the dog park," notes Heather G. The nearby facilities complement equestrian camping with additional activities for children.
Multiple activities: Parks with diverse recreation options keep children engaged. "Loved the fenced in soft play area for the toddlers. Great field for flying kites. Camp store had lots of food options and coffee," shares Brooke V. about Ashland Huntington West KOA. These features provide alternatives when younger riders need breaks from trail riding.
Safety considerations: Some parks have specific safety challenges. "There were way too many young kids on electric bikes that were turned loose. We were almost ran over a couple of times," cautions Karen P. about Greenbo Lake. Establish clear boundaries for children regarding proximity to horses and other camping areas.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Campground terrain varies significantly across the region. "Some sites are really small and some are right along the road. Not crowded at all during our visit. Some sites are sloped from slight to more severe. We did have to take our camper off our truck (truck camper) in order to get level," explains Liz about Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area.
Water pressure issues: Utility quality varies between sites. At Iron Ridge, "Beautiful place to camp. Some sites are more difficult for parking a camper than others. We stayed at site 6 which wasn't too difficult to park but the water pressure was extremely high," warns Wendi L. Bring a pressure regulator for RV water connections.
Hookup distances: Pack extra cords and hoses for equestrian camping sites. "You will need extra water hose and extension cords to get hooked up in a lot of the sites though," advises Ron & Bonnie D. about Ole Henry's Camping Retreat. Most equestrian sites require at least 50 feet of electrical cord and water hose.
