Camp Creek State Park's Double C Horse and Rider Campground offers a dedicated equestrian camping experience about 60 miles from R.D. Bailey Lake in southern West Virginia. This specialized facility sits at approximately 2,300 feet elevation in the Appalachian foothills, where summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F and winters can drop to 20-35°F with occasional snow. The area's dense hardwood forests create natural shade for horses and riders during hot weather months.
What to Do
Waterfall exploration: Camp Creek State Park has several trails leading to waterfalls accessible to horse riders. "The trails connect to two scenic waterfalls within Camp Creek State Park that can be accessed on horseback," reports a visitor to Mash Fork Campground — Camp Creek State Park. A camper shares: "The waterfalls were very sparse when we were there so not sure about other times of the year."
Fishing breaks: Take a break from horseback riding to fish the stocked waters. A camper at Chief Logan State Park Campground notes: "There's also a stocked fishing pond in this park" and "Trout fishing in Camp Creek provides an additional activity for equestrians taking breaks from trail riding."
Swimming with horses: The natural water crossings provide horses with drinking water and cooling opportunities. At German Bridge on Dewey Lake, a camper reports: "It's right off the back waters of Dewy lake. So great to kayaking or any small boats."
What Campers Like
Direct trail access: The horse campground's layout puts you right on the trails. One visitor mentioned: "This horse-friendly campground within the 6,000-acre state park connects riders to miles of trails across diverse terrain."
Well-maintained facilities: Cleanliness matters especially at equestrian sites. At Ole Henry's Camping retreat, a visitor found: "The showers stalls can accommodate about 7-8 people at a time in the men's and women's bathrooms."
Natural horse amenities: Water crossings throughout the trails provide natural hydration spots for horses. A camper at River Expeditions Campsites explained the broader area has: "Its own hiking/biking trails" and "Tent camping is primitive, but the bathhouse is clean and efficient."
What You Should Know
Reservations required: Horse campsites can fill quickly, especially during peak season. "Sites can be reserved in advance for overnight stays with horses," confirms a recent visitor.
Trailer access considerations: The road layout accommodates horse trailers. At the nearby Mash Fork Campground, a camper notes: "All camper pads are paved, have a generous camper pad length, and most are spread a decent amount of space apart."
Seasonal trail conditions: Trail accessibility changes with weather. A camper reports: "Many trails are maintained year-round, though seasonal conditions may affect accessibility."
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground options: Kids need entertainment after riding. A visitor to Ole Henry's described: "The playground are has a nice swing set and a couple big wooden play structures. There is blain drain pipe slides coming off one of the hillsides that is a kid favorite."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children can observe local animals when not riding. At Chief Logan, a camper shared: "There's a small wildlife center where you can see bears, bobcats and raptors in enclosures for a $2.00 donation."
Swimming holes: Natural swimming areas provide cooling options. At Ole Henry's a camper notes: "The creek nearby offers up a good, safe swimming hole for all the kids and adults."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: While the horse campground focuses on equestrian needs, nearby campgrounds offer RV amenities. At German Bridge - Dewey Lake, a visitor warned: "This campsite is not for the new camper, very limited on the nicer things at a campsite. but easy access to the lake."
Level parking challenges: Finding level spots for larger rigs can be difficult. A camper observed: "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."
Off-season considerations: Some facilities close outside peak season. A visitor to Mash Fork cautioned: "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. Rustic camping is fine when we have planned for it."