The Wayne National Forest region offers multiple equestrian camping opportunities within an hour of Parkersburg, West Virginia. This Appalachian foothills area features a mix of hardwood forests, creek valleys, and sandstone outcroppings. The terrain ranges from gently rolling hills to steeper ridges, with elevations typically between 600-1,000 feet and humid summer conditions that make water access essential.
What to do
Trail riding with horses: Wayne National Forest maintains dedicated equestrian trails like Kinderhook, where the parking area accommodates horse trailers. "The trails are well marked and easy to follow. And there are several loop sections so you can easily plan various tips accordingly," notes a visitor to Zaleski State Forest.
Kayaking and fishing: Many campgrounds provide water recreation options. At Lake Hope State Park, campers appreciate the water activities: "Lake Hope is a nice flatwater paddle. Get there early and watch the water lilies open."
Hiking local trails: The region offers varied hiking terrain. A visitor to Burr Oak State Park reports: "We would hike around during the day and swim inside as it was before spring. Lots of great trails. We hope to come back and back pack one of the trails."
What campers like
Peace and quiet: The horse campgrounds near Parkersburg offer tranquil settings away from crowds. "Only stayed for a night but it was very quiet and only a handful of other campers. All the sites seemed relatively level," remarks a camper at Mountwood Park Family Campground.
Natural water features: Streams and lakes enhance many camping locations. One camper at Blue Rock State Park appreciated: "Lovely park near Zanesville. The park is beautiful, lots of wildlife, and the trails were great. There is a creek running through the main primitive campsites below the dam, with minnows and crawfish for the kids to catch."
Wildlife viewing: The forested settings support diverse wildlife. A Zaleski State Forest visitor observed: "You will see lots of wildlife, we have seen salamanders, deer, snakes, a wild turkey even wandered into our camp in May 2018."
What you should know
Equestrian facility limitations: Horse-specific campgrounds have particular restrictions. At Kinderhook Horse Trail, "Parking for regular cars is 100 yards before restroom (the others are for horse trailers only). Close to the restroom there's a picnic table, tentspots and a manual water pump."
Trail conditions vary: Not all trails are maintained equally. At Kinderhook Trailhead, a visitor reported: "With it being an equestrian trail, there were a lot of horses and trailers throughout the day. Before sunset, everyone cleared out and only campers remained."
Water quality considerations: Some recreational waters have seasonal issues. At Strouds Run State Park, a camper noted: "The lake and the beach are very nice! Sometimes the water isn't very clean. Often times the beach is littered with goose droppings."
Tips for camping with families
Accessible wildlife programs: Some parks offer special nature activities. Lake Hope State Park provides unique wildlife encounters: "The naturalists feed hummingbirds at the nature center. They pull the feeders for awhile leading up to a 'Feed the Hummingbirds' program. So cool! The birds come right to you!"
Creek exploration: Kids enjoy water features at several campgrounds. At Blue Rock State Park, families appreciate the natural play opportunities: "There is a creek running through the main primitive campsites below the dam, with minnows and crawfish for the kids to catch, plenty of shade."
Kid-friendly trails: Choose appropriate hiking options for children. A Zaleski visitor shares: "I have taken my kids for several treks on the lower loop. Get there early and get to the campsites first, there are decidedly better sites in each camp."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the hilly terrain require leveling equipment. An RVer at Dorr-Run Red Oak Trailhead observed: "There are plenty of pull-off areas on the road leading up to this trailhead that were being used night one as well."
Hookup availability: Electric options are limited at some equestrian campgrounds. At Old Stone Church Campground, an RVer noted: "Easy pull-thru site for our small travel trailer. Each pull-thru is set-up for horses, but RVs are allowed (according to NFS website)."
Seasonal considerations: Facility availability changes with seasons. A winter visitor to Dorr-Run reported: "OHV trails closed for winter. Hiking allowed year-round. Most campsites inaccessible during off-season. Pit toilet closed for winter."
