Equestrian camping options near Hurricane, West Virginia offer direct access to miles of trail systems throughout the Wayne National Forest region. The area's terrain features wooded hillsides with elevations ranging from 600-900 feet, creating varied trail experiences for riders. Most horse campgrounds remain accessible from early spring through late fall, though spring conditions can include muddy trails after rainfall.
What to do
Trail riding at Iron Ridge: Located near Lake Vesuvius, this Iron Ridge - Lake Vesuvius site connects to extensive trail systems. As Jackson B. notes, "I LOVE camping here, unlike a lot of camp grounds they're actually within the woods so you feel like you're actually part of the forest and the nature." The trails accommodate riders of various skill levels.
Fishing opportunities: Many horse campgrounds provide access to nearby fishing spots. At Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area, Brew W. explains, "The fishing isn't bad at Vesuvius, but the shore access can be crowded, which has resulted in a limited number of keeper fish." Plan early morning or weekday trips for less crowded conditions.
Swimming after rides: After a day on the trails, riders can cool off at designated swimming areas. At Ole Henry's Camping Retreat, "The creek nearby offers up a good, safe swimming hole for all the kids and adults," according to Andrew S. Most swimming areas are accessible May through September.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campers appreciate the separation between camping areas at many horse facilities. At Iron Ridge, Chris S. notes, "Most of the sites shaded and separated by trees. Love the privacy this provides." This layout helps prevent horses from being disturbed by neighboring campers.
Trail variety: Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area gets high marks for trail diversity. Ruby W. explains, "Great location to earn some backpacking miles. Feels quite remote, but along the trails there are shelters, bathrooms, trash reciprocals, and other useful hookups." Many trails feature water crossings and moderate elevation changes.
On-site amenities: Some equestrian campgrounds offer additional facilities. Andrew S. appreciates that Ole Henry's has "a Giovannis pizza restaurant and camp store on site" and "a store where you can buy almost anything you might need in case you forget something." These conveniences reduce the need to leave camp during your stay.
What you should know
Water access limitations: Unlike standard campgrounds, many horse facilities require bringing your own water supply. "No cell service," reports Neal C. about Lake Vesuvius, which highlights the importance of arriving prepared with maps and sufficient supplies.
Weather considerations: Spring conditions can be challenging. As Jackie D. from Iron Ridge notes, "Bathrooms were meh: the walls need cleaned or painted, no where to put your things, and there was no hand soap." Facilities tend to be more primitive than standard campgrounds.
Trail maintenance varies: Trail conditions fluctuate throughout the season. Brew W. explains that at Chief Logan State Park, "Both trails we went on weren't maintained well but the area was pretty." Check recent trail reports before planning longer rides, especially after storms.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Many horse campgrounds near Hurricane include features for children. At Ole Henry's, Andrew S. describes, "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 often enjoy the chance to observe animals. Jennifer B. reports that at Chief Logan State Park, "There's a small wildlife center where you can see bears, bobcats and raptors in enclosures for a $2.00 donation." Most wildlife areas have specific viewing hours.
Swimming options: After trail riding, Ashland Huntington West KOA offers family water activities. Brooke V. mentions, "Loved the fenced in soft play area for the toddlers. Great field for flying kites. Camp store had lots of food options and coffee. Pool was small but big enough to enjoy."
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: When selecting an RV site at equestrian campgrounds, look for level options. At Greenbo Lake State Resort Park, Liz notes, "Some sites are really small and some are right along the road. Not crowded at all during our visit. Some sites are sloped from slight to more severe."
Electrical hookup arrangements: Some campgrounds have unusual electrical configurations. Charles D. warns about Greenbo Lake: "Started out bad. Had showed up at site with no electricity available. Was told had to share box but only one 30 and one 50 amp. So if you both have a 30 amp the other has to get an adapter for the 50."
Water pressure issues: Check water connections carefully. At Iron Ridge, Wendi L. cautions, "Beautiful place to camp. Some sites are more difficult for parking a camper than others. We stayed at site 6 which wasn't too difficult to park but the water pressure was extremely high."
