Horseback riding enthusiasts will find several equestrian-friendly camping options near Harrisville, West Virginia, in the surrounding Wayne National Forest area. The region features hardwood forests with rolling terrain at elevations between 600-900 feet. The Ohio River Valley location creates varied seasonal conditions with humid summers and moderate winters, making spring and fall ideal for trail riding excursions.
What to do
Trail exploration from Kinderhook Trailhead: This dedicated equestrian facility in Wayne National Forest serves as a base camp for accessing multiple trail networks. "This campground is the equestrian Kinderhook Trailhead within Wayne National Forest... 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," notes reviewer Dare To Everywhere from Kinderhook Trailhead.
Waterfall excursions: Visit natural water features accessible via short trails. "Two nice waterfalls. The first waterfall is on a road right by the modern campground so of course we had to visit," writes Cynthia K. about Camp Creek State Park Campground.
Mountain biking adventures: The region offers technical trail riding for mountain bikers on developed paths. Joe B. explains: "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! I came down the east side of Bear Marsh and found out quickly that there were water crossings and deep mud sections."
What campers like
River access for cooling off: Direct water access provides relief during summer rides. At Elk River Camp, campers appreciate waterfront sites: "The park is right on the beautiful Elk River where you can swim, float or kayak," reports Katrina B. from Elk River Camp and RV Park.
Quiet locations away from traffic noise: Some sites offer peaceful surroundings despite proximity to main roads. At Camp Creek State Park, Bob M. found: "We stayed 3 nights here, enjoyed it very much even though the power was out due to Hurricane Helene's wrath. Two nice waterfalls to walk or bike to, the campsites are spread out fairly well, and it's quiet."
Clear cell service: Many horse campgrounds maintain reliable communication capabilities. At Kinderhook, one reviewer noted: "One vault toilet and perfect AT&T and Sprint cell service."
What you should know
Local traffic patterns: Some horse camping areas experience regular vehicle activity. Jack H. observed at Kinderhook Horse Trail: "The site itself is quite nice, with access to toilets and picnic tables. However, it also seems to be a spot locals visit quite a bit. I've had two cars drive in after sunset who have just sat around for a bit then left."
Limited campsite amenities: Most equestrian camping areas provide basic facilities. Joe B. explains: "Area is dedicated to horse trail riding. Nice clean area just off main road. Can camp here in certain spots. Not much area to camp. No fire rings, one picnic table. Definitely only for very small camper, car camp, or tent, small group," regarding Kinderhook Horse Trail.
Seasonal insects: Summer months bring increased insect activity in horse camping areas. Harley G. reported: "Was a 'okay' small area to stay at for free. There was a lot of bees, yellow jackets. The bathroom was clean, but the 'non-flush' toilet was just gross."
Tips for camping with families
Elevation considerations: Some trails feature significant altitude changes requiring preparation. Craig B. found at Camp Creek: "Lots of elevation to summit and water to cool you off after exploring."
Picnic facilities: Look for designated eating areas when planning day trips with children. At Mountwood Park Family Campground, Seána B. noted: "Across the street, the park portion of this campground has a dog park, playground, historical site and pond for fishing."
Creek access planning: Sites with water features require supervision but provide entertainment. Mark K. shares about Camp Creek: "The campground is very close to I77 which makes it convenient. The sites are right next to the creek which is very unique and beautiful. The sites are also big enough."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for horse trailers: Choose camping areas that accommodate both living quarters and horse transportation. At Mountwood Park, Bryan R. observed: "The campground was pretty much empty. There are a few permanents there but we had it all to ourselves. Covid still has every other site coned off. It was clean though."
Limited pull-through availability: Most equestrian camping sites require backing in. Seána B. cautions: "FYI. Most of the sites seemed small so it might be best for smaller setups. Also I did not see any pull through sites."
Access road conditions: Some horse campgrounds have challenging entry roads. Beth R. experienced at Elk River Camp: "Narrow gravel road to get to the newly developed portion of campground. We arrived during heavy rains & muddy site conditions... One lane road in & our... 42' 5th wheel drug bumper to/from campground."
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