Equestrian camping near Windsor Heights, West Virginia offers access to extensive trail systems across several state parks in eastern Ohio and western Pennsylvania. The region features rolling Appalachian foothills with elevations ranging from 800-1,200 feet and mixed hardwood forests. Most horse-friendly campgrounds in the area are open April through November, with limited winter accessibility depending on weather conditions.
What to do
Trail riding at Beaver Creek State Park: Located on 11652 Leslie Road in East Liverpool, Ohio, this park connects directly to the North Country National Scenic Trail. "Direct access to the North Country National Scenic Trail and trails through main park," notes Tracy H., who appreciates the multiple hiking options available to riders.
Fishing opportunities: Many equestrian campers combine riding with fishing during their stay. At Beaver Creek State Park Campground, one visitor reports, "Bass fishing is really fun because we caught a few nice ones!" The creek running through the area provides good angling spots accessible from horse trails.
Historical exploration: While riding the trails at Fernwood State Forest Hidden Hollow, campers can explore nearby historical sites. The area features "an easy orange-blazed trail behind site 10" according to Danielle S., though she warns to watch for "several downed trees blocking the trail a good distance in."
What campers like
Spacious equestrian sites: At Jefferson Lake State Park Campground, riders appreciate the dedicated horse areas. Kimberly notes, "This smaller campground has a mix of equestrian sites and tent/RV sites," and mentions her site was "huge and right next to the water spigot."
Clean facilities: Despite being primitive in nature, equestrian camping areas maintain good standards. William Y. from Jefferson Lake comments on the "very clean vault toilets, beautiful grounds and walking trails" that make for comfortable horse camping experiences.
Multi-use trail systems: Horse riders value the extensive trail networks at Salt Fork State Park Campground. Annie V. observes that "the horse trails go on for miles and miles so if you have horses this is a great place to trail ride and if you're a hiker who is not afraid of horses, you can always enjoy the equestrian trails for some serious mileage!"
What you should know
Seasonal water restrictions: Some campgrounds limit water usage during certain periods. At Beaver Creek, campers report: "They are on a well so there is limited water and they don't allow you to fill up your on board tank. Make sure you fill up before you go!"
Trail maintenance varies: Trail conditions fluctuate throughout the season. One Beaver Creek visitor noted trails were "good in some areas, but definitely needed to be kept up on more often. Very over grown and difficult to follow the trails."
Non-threaded spigots: At Jefferson Lake, Eddie warns about water access challenges: "All water full up towers only have those spigots that are not threaded. Had to hold hose over spigot about 20 min to fill 35 gal." This is particularly important for horse owners needing to fill larger water containers.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: For families mixing horse riding with child-friendly activities, certain campgrounds offer better amenities. At Beaver Creek State Park Campground, Matt H. recommends: "We got a site near the playground, which my 3 year old enjoyed. The campground wasn't busy and we had a lot of privacy."
Educational opportunities: Combine riding with learning at parks featuring historical elements. A Beaver Creek visitor explains, "There is a pioneer village near the park office that offers some picnicking areas around it. It also has original buildings from the pioneer days (church, school, etc)."
Night sky viewing: After a day of trail riding, families can enjoy stargazing. Matt H. reports from Beaver Creek: "The sky was dark enough to see far more stars than you'd see near any larger towns or cities. To cap it off, we laid in our tent dozing off to the sounds of owls and coyotes!"
Tips from RVers
Site selection challenges: RVers with horse trailers should research carefully. At Beaver Creek, Aaron B. advises: "If 45 was occupied with a RV, 44 would not be as nice as it was. Backing into 44 and 45 would be tricky as well. To be fair any larger RV that came in better know how to get through tight quarters."
Access road restrictions: Some parks have limitations on which roads RVs can use. Bounding Around warns about Beaver Creek: "There is a road in the park (Echo Dell Road) that RV's/Trailers can't go on so make sure you approach this campground from Leslie Road!"
Electric site availability: Many equestrian campgrounds offer limited electric sites. Eddie from Jefferson Lake notes "Only 5 electric sites" and adds that "Electric is a little far behind pad. We almost needed extension cord," suggesting RVers bring extension cords when setting up at horse camps.
