Equestrian Camping near Hinton, WV

Double C Horse and Rider Campground is part of Camp Creek State Park's 6,000-acre network dedicated to horseback riders. Located near Hinton, West Virginia, this specialized campground sits at around 2,000 feet elevation in the Appalachian foothills. Trail conditions vary seasonally, with water crossings becoming more challenging after heavy rainfall periods typical in spring and early summer.

What to do

Trail riding with elevation changes: The Camp Creek trail system connects directly to Mash Fork Campground, offering varied terrain. "The hiking is difficult in some areas but spectacularly beautiful. The campground staff was very friendly, and the amenities were clean and kept up," notes Julie B. about the connected trail system.

Swimming access: During summer months, several stream access points provide water for horses and cooling opportunities. "The site we stayed at had a small babbling brook right behind it and also a trail head that climbed up and back down right into the campground," reports Robyn S.

Explore Greenbrier River Trail: Located within 30 minutes of the Greenbrier River Trail Mile Post 9.5 Primitive Campsite, this rail-trail offers flatter terrain options. "With a few short miles until the journey ends at the Southern Terminus...we slowed our paced and stopped more frequently to enjoy all the sights and sounds," shares Dave V.

What campers like

Natural shade coverage: Many sites at Double C have strategic tree placement for shade during summer months while maintaining open areas for horse containment. At nearby Cranberry River Sites, campers appreciate similar forested settings, with Mike F. noting, "The main trail is graveled and very easily accessed. It runs along the Cranberry River with beautiful views all along the way."

Multiple water crossings: Stream access points throughout the trail system offer natural watering stations. Campers at similar sites value these features, with Jim P. commenting about nearby campgrounds, "This park is quiet, secluded and has plenty of trails to hike! The site I use exclusively has a river running behind it and the sounds lull you to sleep any time of day!"

Self-sufficient camping experience: The primitive nature means less crowding and more authentic backcountry opportunities. At Greenbrier River Trail Mile Post 28.5 Primitive Campsite, Dave V. describes similar benefits: "These primitive campsites are free, first come-first served and cannot be reached by motor vehicle. The campsites that dot the Greenbrier River Trail are meticulously maintained by State Park employees and are in well thought out locations."

What you should know

Seasonal trail conditions: Spring thaws and summer storms can affect trail stability. Similar challenges exist at nearby trails, with Dave V. noting, "Heavy rainstorms brought down numerous trees across the GRT during our trip...but the State Park employees worked diligently and feverishly to clear the trail."

Reservation requirements: Sites must be reserved in advance through the West Virginia state park system, with specific horse capacities per site (2, 4, or 6 horses). At CB Ranch, similar equestrian-friendly facilities require planning, with cheryl B. mentioning, "The cabin was decorated very nicely and was clean and the bed was very comfy also. The farm is 4 miles from a quaint small town with shops and great restaurants."

Limited facilities: Minimal bathhouse facilities mean campers should plan accordingly. As Jessica D. warns about another primitive campground, "We had a nice site near a stream and close to the bathrooms however, even though the campground is open year round, the bathrooms are not."

Tips for camping with families

Prepare for varied weather: The elevation means temperature drops at night even in summer. At nearby campgrounds, campers note similar conditions, with Lee D. observing, "Instant hot water was appreciated at the tap (it was in the 30s when we were there in mid-October)."

Consider mixed camping options: Families with less experienced riders might split camping between Double C and nearby developed campgrounds. Kelly M. describes one alternative: "This clean and spacious campground lends itself to white water rafting enthusiasts, offering various guided trips down the New and Gauley rivers. The campground has its own hiking/biking trails and zip line canopy tours."

Bring horse containment systems: No permanent corrals exist at individual sites, so portable corral panels or high-line systems are necessary. As Mike F. advises at another wilderness camping area, "One thing to remember is always hang your food at night. Bears will come in and make themselves at home!"

Tips from RVers

Plan trailer access carefully: The access road to Double C can be challenging for larger rigs, especially after rainfall. Look for alternatives when hauling horses with big trailers. At nearby River Expeditions, similar challenges exist, with Jennifer B. noting, "The RV camp sites are too close together for my taste and the gravel parking spots are all on a slant, so it would be a challenge for larger trailers to get level there."

Consider staging areas: Some equestrians prefer to camp at developed campgrounds and trailer horses to Double C for day rides. Nicole M. explains one nearby option has, "Campground is well maintained. Many trees along edge of the campground but not very many in the center, so the sites on the outer loop have more shade if that's what you're looking for."

Water hauling requirements: Since direct hookups aren't available at horse sites, RVers should bring water tanks. Jamie H. advises about wilderness camping in the region: "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."