Equestrian camping near Bluefield, West Virginia provides direct access to extensive trail systems throughout the Appalachian region. The area encompasses multiple state parks and national forest lands featuring both primitive and developed facilities for horse owners. Most equestrian sites in this region operate seasonally from April through November, with varying levels of amenities depending on location.
What to do
Trail riding access: Camp Creek State Park connects directly to 16 miles of multi-use trails where riders can experience diverse terrain. According to one visitor at Mash Fork Campground, "there is a trail head that climbed up and back down right into the campground. Very nice trail for the dogs and I to get some exercise on."
Waterfall viewing: Several equestrian trails lead to scenic waterfalls within a short distance of camping areas. A Camp Creek State Park visitor noted, "The waterfalls are a short walk from the campground. Firewood is available and they deliver it to your site. The bundles are quite generous in size."
Explore national forest trails: The Virginia Highlands Horse Trail connects with Fox Creek Horse Camp, providing access to a broader trail network. One camper reported, "With a wide network of multi-use trails in this area, Fox Creek Horse Camp provides a nice base for exploring on horseback."
What campers like
Value pricing: Primitive equestrian camping options offer substantial savings for horse owners. A visitor to Fox Creek Horse Camp noted sites have "gravel/grass pads, picnic table, and fire ring" and "At $5/night, it's hard to beat the price."
Clean facilities: At Chestnut Hollow Horse Campground, campers appreciate the well-maintained stalls. One reviewer mentioned, "There are open and closed stall options for an additional fee. These were clean and in good repair."
Wildlife encounters: Grayson Highlands offers unique wildlife viewing opportunities near equestrian camping areas. A camper at Chestnut Hollow reported, "We camped at an equestrian campgrounds... Saw a Family of black bear about a mile from camp then a bobcat in camp later that day!"
What you should know
Weather preparedness: Mountain elevations can create challenging weather conditions. At Grayson Highlands, one camper warned, "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! The windchill was a serious issue for some in our group so bring lots of layers and gloves."
Limited services: Most equestrian sites lack drinking water and require advance planning. For Old Virginia Group Horse Camp, a reviewer cautions, "There is no potable water available, so plan to bring your own. There is a stream at the site where the horses may drink."
Seasonal variations: Campground amenities often change seasonally. One camper at Camp Creek State Park explained, "We were told there was one open bathroom however it was not made clear this was 1-2 miles away which was not exactly convenient. Rustic camping is fine when we have planned for it."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Camp Creek State Park provides recreational facilities beyond riding. A visitor reported, "Activities/Amenities: Playground, basketball, volleyball, laundry, several hiking trails including trails to two waterfalls, and an ADA-accessible short trail."
Wildlife education: At Glen Lyn Town Park & Campground, families can access a "6 mile hiking trail to waterfall and not far from town." This provides alternative activities when children need breaks from horseback riding.
River proximity: Sites along waterways offer additional recreational options. One Camp Creek visitor mentioned, "The site I use exclusively has a river running behind it and the sounds lull you to sleep any time of day!"
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Equestrian campgrounds with RV accommodations often offer varying hookup options. At Camp Creek State Park, a camper noted, "It is small (18 sites) with a mix of 30-amp, 30-amp with water, 50-amp with water and electric, and FHU sites."
Level terrain: Many sites in the region feature level pads suitable for RVs. According to one Mash Fork visitor, "All camper pads are paved, have a generous camper pad length, and most are spread a decent amount of space apart."
Utility restrictions: Check seasonal availability of utilities when planning equestrian camping trips with RVs. One reviewer advised, "Campers are frequently referred to Grindstone campground for potable water and showers, but as of 2021, the dump station and bath houses/water are off; if you need services plan to travel about 15 minutes to Hurricane Campground instead."
