Equestrian camping near Thomas, West Virginia provides access to extensive forest trail systems throughout the Monongahela National Forest region. Campgrounds in this area sit at elevations ranging from 2,000-3,000 feet, creating mild summer temperatures that typically stay below 85°F. Water access varies significantly between established and primitive sites, with many riverside locations prone to seasonal flooding during spring rainfall.
What to do
Trail riding and hiking: The Monongahela National Forest contains over 60 miles of interconnected trails accessible from several campgrounds. Riders at East Fork Campground and Horse Stables appreciate the direct trail access. "We used it as a base for Cass Scenic Railroad, which is not far from Durbin," notes Ryan P.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple streams and lakes in the region are stocked with trout during spring and fall. "The stream is stocked with trout in the spring and fall. My wife and I spent our honeymoon here 25 years ago and plan to return there this fall. Our son was married here in the stream in waders and we all went fishing after the ceremony," shares Tim M. about Laurel Fork Campground.
Scenic train rides: Several historic railroads operate near Thomas. "Campground adjacent to the Durbin Rocket steam locomotive. They are doing a train robbery this week, robbers are riding horseback to steal a guarded shipment!" reports Harold C. about his stay at East Fork Campground.
What campers like
Riverside camping spots: Sites along water provide natural sounds and recreation. At Gandy Creek Dispersed Camping, "We picked a spot about halfway into the dispersed camping area, creek side along the Gandy creek. We were closer to the road than we wanted to be but because the past few days had been beautiful spring weather, the area was packed," writes Melanie S.
Clean facilities: Many established campgrounds maintain high standards for bathhouses and other amenities. "The bathhouse was nice with plenty of hot water. Plenty of hot water. Bathrooms were older but very clean," notes Todd C. about Revelle's River Resort.
Dark sky viewing: The region's limited development creates excellent night sky viewing conditions. "You're in the middle of nowhere, so you do have a truly dark sky. If your legs aren't up for the 8mile hike to Spruce Knob, take a drive and enjoy the view from the lookout tower on the summit of WV's high point," recommends Jean C. about Spruce Knob Lake Campground.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Much of the area has limited or no connectivity. "Download your maps before you come, because there's no cell service and you'll truly get away," advises Jean C. about Spruce Knob Lake. Another visitor to Gandy Creek notes, "There's minimal cell reception and by that I mean you'll be walking along and all the sudden your phone will start dinging because you hit a pocket where you get one bar of reception and the text messages pour in!"
Weather preparedness: Mountain elevations create variable conditions, even in summer. "We did this hike in March and there was a thin layer of snow on the ground when we started that quickly accumulated while we hiked and then overnight as we slept," reports Emily S. about winter hiking near Spruce Knob Lake.
Road conditions: Access to remote sites often requires driving on unpaved forest roads. "Access is by about 6 miles of dirt/rock road," warns Kenneth K. about Kumbrabow State Forest. Another camper noted "Lengthy dirt road drive to get there."
Tips for camping with families
Water play opportunities: Streams and small waterfalls provide natural playgrounds. "We had a camp site that was right against the river with full hookups. This seemed to be a well laid out campground with sites for weekenders in maybe the best location right along the river," shares Kevin C. about Revelle's River Resort.
Playground availability: Some established campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. At East Fork Campground, Ryan P. appreciated the "nice bathhouse, nice playground, and beautiful setting."
Wildlife viewing: Several locations offer opportunities to observe native species. "Lots of wildflowers and butterflies! We stayed 3 nights and could have stayed more if we had more time," shares Dana M. about Laurel Fork Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site size considerations: Many campgrounds have limited space for larger rigs. "Used lot 73 for a 26ft hybrid camper. Fit perfectly! It was flat, large, clean and right by the creek. Many other sites/options for 26ft ish size camper," recommends Andy C. about Big Run State Park Campground.
Hookup availability: Full-service sites are limited to a few campgrounds. "Most of the sites were full hook-ups and the facilities were very clean and well maintained," notes Cindy B. about East Fork Campground and Horse Stables, making it a practical option for horse owners with RVs.
Water management: Seasonal variations impact water access at primitive sites. "Unless you have a powerful vehicle pulling your camper, it would help to release your water supply and fill up when you get to the campground," suggests Chris J. about Trout Pond Recreation Area.
