Located in the Monongahela National Forest of West Virginia, the areas around Buckeye offer extensive trail systems for horse riders and campers at elevations ranging from 2,000 to 4,000 feet. The climate features four distinct seasons with summer temperatures typically ranging from 75-85°F during the day and dropping to 50-60°F at night. Primitive camping options along trails allow for multi-day rides through mixed hardwood forests and river valleys.
What to do
Trail riding access: East Fork Campground and Horse Stables in Durbin provides direct access to the Greenbrier River Trail and numerous forest service trails. "We've camped here for the second time. They are doing a train robbery this week, robbers are riding horseback to steal a guarded shipment!" notes Harold C.
Swimming spots: Douthat State Park Campground offers lake swimming with a designated beach area. "There is a pool and other activities available. We stayed at sites 35 & 36," shares Missy S., highlighting the variety of water recreation options beyond the Greenbrier River.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple stocked streams and rivers surround horse campgrounds near Buckeye, West Virginia. "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 like big ruff and the ducks are so colorful like no other," explains Jamie H. about Cranberry River Sites NF Campground.
Hiking trails: The network of trails connects campgrounds to scenic overlooks with elevation changes of 500-1,000 feet. "The trail to the Overlook was a very difficult trail, but the view from the top was breathtaking. Worth the difficult hike," reports Cassia M.
What campers like
Riverside sites: Greenbrier River Trail MP 69.6 offers camping directly along the water. "The MP 69.6 Camping Area is along the Greenbrier River, so camping along it affords great wildlife viewing at dawn and dusk when the animals head to the water to drink," explains Dave V.
Privacy between sites: Many primitive sites along trails offer significant separation from other campers. "A welcomed Reststop along the Trail" is how Dave V. describes the Greenbrier River Trail Mile Post 49.3 Primitive Campsite, noting it has a "raised fine gravel tent pad" and "nice, clean, maintained and stocked pit latrine."
Clean facilities: Despite remote locations, many campgrounds maintain well-kept bathhouses and amenities. "The shower houses were cleaned three times a day. The sites have electric and at the shower house there is a spigot for fresh water," reports Cassia M.
Water access: The proximity to rivers and streams provides both recreation and practical benefits. "The Greenbrier River Trail is stretched out a good distance and though not listed on some Trail maps...it does have an Adirondack style shelter near the southernmost tent pad in a partly wooded area," notes Dave V.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Many areas around Buckeye have no cellular coverage. "This is both a blessing and a curse. However, for safety purposes, I do carry a Garmin InReach Explorer + in case of emergencies," advises Dave V.
Weather conditions: Rain is common year-round in this region. "Expect afternoon thunderstorms in summer and significant temperature drops overnight. "In late June, temperatures were still quite cool, so while the river looked inviting, we did not take the plunge," reports one visitor to Greenbrier River Trail Mile Post 9.5 Primitive Campsite.
Wildlife awareness: This is active bear territory requiring proper food storage. "There are bears," states Joseph K. succinctly about Cranberry River Sites, while another camper adds "One thing to remember is always hang your food at night. Bears will come in and make themselves at home!"
Reservation requirements: Many horse-friendly sites require advance booking. "We reserved a primitive site online via recreation.gov (despite the fact that many sites are unreservable and are instead first come, first serve - we didn't want to chance it with the long drive)," shares Joanna G.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds include play areas for children. "Perfect if you have children. There is a pool and other activities available," notes Missy S. about Holly River State Park Campground.
Swimming safety: Water access points vary in depth and current. "Bring water shoes, the rocks can be sharp. The campsite was spacious and shaded, they do offer doubles for larger groups," advises Nicole R.
Educational opportunities: Ranger programs and historical sites provide learning experiences. "The trails are great for mountain biking. Bring your legs, lots of climbing!" shares Robyn S., highlighting the physical education aspects of the area.
Multi-generation activities: Sites accommodate varying activity levels. "Had an awesome time. Kids can't stop talking about it," reports Brian C., showing the family-friendly appeal of these outdoor spaces.
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Some campgrounds have restrictions on RV size and hookups. "The campground Bolar Mountain Rec Area is on Lake Moomaw. We had the pleasure of having a campsite with lake view and access both times. Campground 2 site 53, has a nice private beach area where you can go fishing or swim," recommends Nicole R.
Electric hookups: Bolar Mountain Recreation Area provides power options for larger vehicles. "Great sites, easily accessible and easy access to hook up to ammenities," states Kimberly S., identifying the practical aspects important to RV campers.
Seasonal considerations: Most equestrian campgrounds close during winter months. "This campground in Durbin was great for exploring the north end of the Greenbrier River Trail, The West Fork Rail Trail, and other sites in the Monongahela National Forest," explains Cindy B., noting the seasonal accessibility of the region for RV travelers.
Water and sewer connections: Full-hookup sites are limited but available. "Very nice campground with water and electric right on the river for $32, clean bathrooms and showers, and very nice owners," reports Richard about East Fork Campground.
