Double C Horse and Rider Campground offers equestrian camping facilities within Camp Creek State Park's 6,000-acre forested area. Located in the Appalachian Mountains at elevations ranging from 2,100 to 2,700 feet, the terrain features moderate to steep trails suitable for various skill levels. Weather conditions vary significantly by season, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 65°F to 85°F and winter temperatures often dropping below freezing.
What to do
Trail riding in forested terrain: Riders access multiple interconnected trails directly from Mash Fork Campground — Camp Creek State Park without trailering horses to separate trailheads. "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.
Waterfall viewing on horseback: Camp Creek State Park contains two accessible waterfalls reachable via horseback trails. "Waterfalls are easily accessible. Did notice people leaving trash and clothing around them. Garbage cans are all over but people just don't care," reports Fred R.
Overnight trail camping: For more adventurous equestrians, Greenbrier River Trail Mile Post 28.5 Primitive Campsite offers remote camping options. "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," shares Dave V.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Despite the rustic nature of equestrian camping, visitors appreciate the maintenance standards. "The campground was very nice and very clean. The staff was awesome. Spots were nice. Campground was small but quaint," states Dawn M. from Mash Fork Campground.
Proximity to water features: Many equestrian trails run alongside streams and rivers, creating natural rest stops for horses. "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. Very nice trail for the dogs and I to get some exercise on," explains Robyn S.
Secluded camping environment: Cranberry River Sites NF Campground provides a quieter alternative for equestrians. "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," says Jamie H.
What you should know
Bear awareness required: Horse campers must take precautions with feed storage. "One thing to remember is always hang your food at night. Bears will come in and make themselves at home! Lol," warns Mike F. about camping at Cranberry River Sites.
Seasonal availability limitations: Many equestrian facilities have limited operation periods. "Even though the campground is open year round, the bathrooms are not. We were told there was one open bathroom however it was not made clear this was 1-2 miles away which was not exactly convenient," reports Jessica D.
Water access considerations: Greenbrier River Trail Mile Post 9.5 Primitive Campsite offers water access but with caveats. "Hand pump well water was inoperable during our late June 2020 visit," notes Dave V., highlighting the need to bring sufficient water supplies.
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities nearby: Families combining horse camping with children will find amenities at Camp Creek. "Great park. Nice playgrounds clean lots 30 and 50 amp service as well as boondock sites," mentions Fred R.
Alternative accommodations: For mixed groups with non-riders, River Expeditions Campsites offers options near equestrian areas. "River Expeditions offers tent camping, safari tents, RV sites, bungalows, mini-cabins, deluxe cabins, and even luxury cabins with private hot tubs. Prices range from $15/night for tent camping to nearly $400 for the luxury cabins," explains Jennifer B.
Trail difficulty awareness: Parents should evaluate trail conditions before taking children riding. "The main trail is graveled and very easily accessed. It runs along the Cranberry River with beautiful views all along the way," shares Mike F., providing useful information about trail conditions for family rides.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: RV sites near equestrian camping areas often require preparation. "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," warns Jennifer B. from River Expeditions.
Limited connectivity: Prepare for communication restrictions while horse camping. "No service for Verizon users... Sites have wifi but I could only get it to work 20% of the time," reports Nicole M., which affects those needing to coordinate with trailer transport or emergency services.