Dispersed camping options near Horner, West Virginia provide alternatives to the established equestrian facilities in the region. The area sits within the Monongahela National Forest at elevations ranging from 2,000-4,000 feet, creating cooler summer temperatures than surrounding lowlands. Most primitive sites in this region lack cell service, particularly in Pocahontas County which maintains a federally-mandated radio quiet zone.
What to do
Fishing access points: Cranberry River offers both stocked and wild trout fishing throughout the camping season. "There are beautiful waterfalls like big ruff and the ducks are so colorful like no other. Been going for 3 years now and always an awesome getaway," notes Jamie H. about Cranberry River Sites NF Campground.
Hiking varied terrain: Trail difficulty ranges from easy creekside paths to strenuous mountain climbs with significant elevation gain. At Kumbrabow State Forest, "If you hike the 2-mile Potato Hole Trail, you'll arrive at the top of Rich Mountain and an overlook with a fantastic view. You can also park at the Kumbrabow gun range and hike the longer, but less strenuous, Rich Mountain Fire Trail which intersects with the Potato Hole Trail," explains Jennifer B.
Waterfall exploration: Multiple cascades are accessible via hiking trails of various difficulties. A camper at Holly River State Park Campground shares: "The park has a total of 4 waterfalls to explore... This campground has plenty to offer for the whole family. The privacy of each site varies, on the weekends it is very busy though."
What campers like
Creek-adjacent sites: Many campsites are positioned directly alongside flowing water for natural white noise. At Gandy Creek Dispersed Camping, "Some you walk-in a short distance but are rewarded with amazing sites on the creek, secluded and wooded. Other places you can camp in your vehicle or park at the site. My favorite areas are on the creek. Lots of privacy, every site is unique and special in it's own way," reports Jennifer R.
Remote forest settings: The Monongahela National Forest provides deeply wooded sites away from civilization. "This place feel and literally is in the middle of nowhere. It takes forever on dirt forest service roads to finally stumble upon this place, making its beauty that much more enchanting. A nice creek, pit toilets...it's remote," describes Christopher B. about Laurel Fork Campground.
Well-maintained facilities: Many established campgrounds have clean bathhouses and amenities despite their remote settings. A camper at East Fork Campground and Horse Stables mentions: "Nice bathhouse, nice playground, and beautiful setting. We used it as a base for Cass Scenic Railroad, which is not far from Durbin."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many campgrounds require travel on unpaved forest roads with variable conditions. For Laurel Fork Campground, Tim M. advises: "Very remote. Two small circles of sites the only amenity is pit toilets. The stream is stocked with trout in the spring and fall."
Limited services: Most remote sites lack potable water, electricity, and cell service. "There are no toilets, so bring your shovel. Also, the sites are so spaced out on the road that each is very private, though you see an occasional car drive by," notes Tommy S. about Gandy Creek Dispersed Camping.
Reservation requirements: Some sites are first-come, first-served while others allow advance booking. At Holly River State Park, "There are 88 campsites with electrical hookups, picnic tables, and fire ring. There are 2 sites with primitive campgrounds. They only allow one tent or trailer on a site."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. Ryan P. mentions about East Fork Campground and Horse Stables: "We really enjoyed the campground. Nice bathhouse, nice playground, and beautiful setting."
Stream safety: Creek access points vary in depth and current strength throughout the season. At Camp Creek State Park, one camper notes: "CAMPERS BEWARE... if you visit Campbell falls, BEWARE it is extremely slippery. The brown algae makes it very slick and no shoe will handle it. There's no real entrance to the water to swim."
Weather preparedness: The region experiences frequent rainfall, particularly at higher elevations. A Holly River State Park visitor shares: "We spent a few days here. Plenty of camp sites that have electric hookups. Stay near the water or further away. Playground for the kids and nice hiking trails. Bath houses were clean. Very friendly staff. Every morning and every night it rained which made it difficult to swim and fish."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RV sites vary significantly in size and access difficulty across horse campgrounds near Horner, West Virginia. At Camp Creek State Park Campground, an RVer advises: "I liked the sites that were by a creek- 8/9/10/13/14/15/16/18. 12 is a pull thru. These sites have a paved pad & the whole campground looked nicely kept. All the sites looked flat. There's a dump station on the road out of the park."
Limited big rig access: Many equestrian camping facilities have tight turning radiuses on access roads. "Very nice campground some spots a little tight for bigger camper we have a 30' but we were okay. Very quiet nice rangers and very helpful," notes Brett W. about Holly River State Park.
Full hookup availability: Several equestrian-friendly campgrounds offer complete utilities. A visitor to Revelle's River Resort reported: "We had a river lot which was beautiful. Restaurant, Shavers Saloon, was walking distance and had full bar with good food. Service there was great. Bathrooms were older but very clean. Plenty of hot water."
