Horse campgrounds near West Milford, West Virginia offer backcountry riding experiences in the Allegheny Highlands, with elevations reaching 3,000 feet above sea level. The region's dense forest terrain creates diverse trail conditions, from creek-side paths to challenging summit routes. Seasonal weather patterns influence campground accessibility, with many facilities operating from April through November.
What to do
Waterfall hiking trails: Access multiple waterfalls at Holly River State Park Campground where visitors can explore cascades of varying difficulty. "The park has a total of 4 waterfalls to explore. They have basketball, tennis, and volleyball courts, and a pool for campers to enjoy," writes Hannah V.
Summit ridge trails: Trek to higher elevations for panoramic views on strenuous routes. "You can also park at the Kumbrabow gun range and hike the longer, but less strenuous, Rich Mountain Fire Trail which intersects with the Potato Hole Trail," notes Jennifer B. about the trail system at Kumbrabow State Forest.
Creek wading and fishing: Many campsites back directly to accessible water features. "The Holly River runs clear through the Park, right beside a good many of the of the sites and hanging a hammock and listening to the water, can't be beat!" explains Suzy J.
What campers like
Creekside sites: Waterfront camping spots offer natural sound barriers between sites. "The sites are right next to the creek which is very unique and beautiful. The sites are also big enough," states Mark K. about Camp Creek State Park Campground.
Quiet forest settings: Remote locations provide genuine wilderness experiences away from crowds. "This place feel and literally is in the middle of nowhere. It takes forever on dirt forest service roads to finally stumble upon this place, making its beauty that much more enchanting," reports Christopher B. about Laurel Fork Campground.
Minimal light pollution: Dark skies offer exceptional stargazing opportunities. "Our site was right on the creek and the sound was awesome for sleeping. Biggest surprise, given the location on the creek and remoteness of the campground (settled deep in the woods), there were No Bugs to speak of!" shares Dana M.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Rain patterns affect campground conditions significantly. "Every morning and every night it rained which made it difficult to swim and fish. The park workers said this is common year round," cautions Elaine L. about Holly River State Park.
Road access challenges: Many equestrian campgrounds require navigation on unpaved roads. "Access is by about 6 miles of dirt/rock road. There are many trails at all hiking levels," explains Kenneth K.
Limited services: Cell coverage and amenities vary widely across campgrounds. "No cell coverage or Wi-Fi, 2 mile drive to bath house," reports C.S. about Kumbrabow State Forest.
Campsite registration protocols: Some horse camping areas require specific check-in procedures. "The campground has 4 bathhouses that are centrally localized, it contains flush toilets, hot showers, water spigots, and coin laundry. Dogs are allowed on a leash," notes Hannah V.
Tips for camping with families
Water play options: Creek access provides natural entertainment for children. "Beautiful campground located in the middle of nowhere. Quiet and peaceful with a fantastic stream going through the campground to either fish or play in," suggests Megan B. about Kumbrabow State Forest.
Beginner-friendly horse trails: Select gentler paths for young riders. "The park has lots of hiking trails, waterfalls, biking, fishing, and horseback riding," reports Hannah V.
Camp layout considerations: Some sites offer better privacy than others. "Some of the campsites are smaller and less private than others. We stayed in campsite 11, and it had plenty of privacy and space," advises Megan B.
Recreational facilities: Several parks offer structured activities beyond trail riding. "They have basketball, tennis, and volleyball courts, and a pool for campers to enjoy. They also have cabins to rent if you are not feeling up to camping," notes Hannah V.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger units: Not all equestrian campgrounds accommodate big rigs. "Very well run clean campgrounds. We had a river lot which was beautiful. Restaurant, Shavers Saloon, was walking distance and had full bar with good food," reports Todd C. about Revelle's River Resort.
Leveling challenges: Prepare for variable terrain at horse camping areas. "Gravel pad, one lane road in & our, under construction, 42' 5th wheel drug bumper to/from campground," cautions Beth R. about Elk River Camp and RV Park.
Hookup availability: Services differ significantly between equestrian campgrounds. "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," explains Kevin C.
