Camp Creek State Park's equestrian campground offers horseback riders a dedicated camping option 37 miles from Thurmond, West Virginia. Located at 2,400 feet elevation, the Double C Horse and Rider Campground sits within the state park's 6,000-acre property that spans across the southern Appalachian mountains. The campground operates seasonally with most equestrian traffic occurring between April and October when trail conditions are optimal for riding.
What to do
Trail riding access points: The trails at Mash Fork Campground — Camp Creek State Park connect to over 33 miles of riding paths. "The 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., who visited during fall.
Waterfall exploration: Multiple waterfall trails within 5 miles of the horse campground provide scenic destinations for day rides. "There is an office with a small store. Several hiking trails including trails to two waterfalls, and an ADA-accessible short trail. The waterfalls were very sparse when we were there so not sure about other times of the year," says Lee D.
White water rafting trips: For equestrians looking for off-saddle adventure, River Expeditions Campsites arranges guided rafting trips on the New River, located 28 miles northwest of Camp Creek. "This clean and spacious campground lends itself to white water rafting enthusiasts, offering various guided trips down the New and Gauley rivers," writes Kelly M.
What campers like
Creek access for horses: The creeks throughout Camp Creek State Park provide natural watering points 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," shares Robyn S., who camped at Mash Fork.
Fall colors: The hardwood forests surrounding the equestrian camp transform dramatically in autumn. "We were in site number eight, it backed up to the creek and was quite private with the exception of the trail on the other side of the creek," says Julie B., highlighting the seasonal beauty at Cranberry River Sites NF Campground, another nearby option.
Primitive camping solitude: The less-developed nature of Double C Horse and Rider Campground appeals to equestrians seeking quiet surroundings. "If your looking for a weekend getaway or a week long rest. Look no farther," notes Jamie H. about camping in the area, adding that "you won't be disappointed."
What you should know
Bear activity awareness: Bears are common throughout the region, requiring proper food storage at all camps. "You can pretty much camp where ever you'd like and there are also Adirondack style shelters in various spots along the trail. 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 Greenbrier River Trail Mile Post 28.5 Primitive Campsite.
Weather considerations: Rain can affect trail conditions quickly, especially in spring and fall. "Late afternoon showers soaked the three groups of bikepackers that set up camp at Mile Post 28.5 for the night. So being the first to claim the Shelter is a coveted position," reports Dave V.
Campground reservations: Double C Horse and Rider Campground requires advance booking, unlike some other sites in the region. "All campsites on the Greenbrier River Trail are first come-first served…no reservations," notes Dave V. about the Greenbrier River Trail campsites, contrasting with Double C's reservation system.
Tips for camping with families
Backup campground options: When traveling with children, having alternative accommodations can be helpful. "We stayed here for one night on our way back north. We got the last site available and it was pretty decent. Site 10 across from the bathhouse. The site was very level, as were most sites," says Kevin E. about New & Gauley River Adventures, which offers tent camping with some amenities.
Firewood availability: Plan for evening campfires when camping with children. "Firewood is available and they deliver it to your site. The bundles are quite generous in size," Kevin E. reports about Mash Fork Campground, a service especially useful for families.
Playground access: When kids need breaks from horseback activities, nearby playgrounds provide options. "Great park. Nice playgrounds clean lots 30 and 50 amp service as well as boondock sites," notes Fred R. about facilities at Camp Creek State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site conditions for trailers: Horse trailer parking at Double C can be limited. "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. about Glen Lyn Town Park & Campground, highlighting similar challenges faced at area campgrounds.
Seasonal considerations: Off-season camping affects amenities availability. "We had a nice site near a stream and close to the bathrooms however, 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," cautions Jessica D., emphasizing the importance of checking facility status.