Old Virginia Group Horse Camp
4.326 reviews3714 Highway 16, Marion, VA, 24354, USA
Old Virginia Group Horse Camp
$50.00 - $50.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$50.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
$50 per night for group equestrian camping during peak season (April 01, 2025 - November 27, 2025). Fee does not reflect discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area, Old Virginia Group Horse Camp beckons equestrian adventurers to experience the magic of trail riding through Virginia's stunning high country. Here, your group can wake to misty mountain mornings, saddle up for days exploring endless trail networks, and gather around the campfire as horses graze peacefully nearby. The gentle murmur of a nearby stream provides nature's soundtrack to your basecamp, where picturesque mountain vistas frame every sunset and create memories that last long after the dust settles from your last ride.
Old Virginia Group Horse Camp is a primitive campground designed specifically for group equestrian camping. It accommodates up to 25 guests and horses.
Historical SignificanceOld Virginia serves as a gateway to some of Appalachia's most storied trails. The legendary Virginia Creeper Trail and the scenic New River Trail weave through the surrounding Mount Rogers National Recreation Area, connecting riders to a rich tapestry of railroad history, pioneer settlements, and timeless mountain culture. These historic corridors have transformed from industrial lifelines into beloved recreational treasures, offering modern adventurers a chance to follow in the hoofprints of generations past.
Weather and SeasonsMother Nature keeps visitors on their toes at Old Virginia, where mountain weather writes its own rules. Spring arrives as a dramatic performer, sometimes dusting the trails with surprise snowflakes in the morning before warming to t-shirt weather by afternoon. Winter transforms the camp into a crystalline wonderland, bringing crisp, cold temperatures and a mix of snow and rain that paints the landscape in ever-changing hues. Each season offers its own rewards for those prepared to embrace the mountains' moody temperament.
ElevationNull
Natural Features and SceneryTucked into the enchanting Fairwood Valley, the camp rests like a hidden gem within the vast expanse of the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests. A babbling stream meanders through the property before joining its waters with Fox Creek, creating a natural oasis for both horses and humans. This intimate valley setting offers a perfect blend of shelter and scenery, where morning mist clings to the ridgelines and evening light filters through ancient hardwoods.
Geological RegionThe camp's home in Fairwood Valley showcases the rugged beauty of the Appalachian Mountains at their finest. As part of the sprawling 1.8-million-acre George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, this geological wonderland tells a story written in stone over millions of years. The valley cradles a pristine stream system that eventually feeds into Fox Creek, carving through ancient ridges and creating the dramatic topography that makes this corner of the Appalachians a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features were not explicitly mentioned in the source materials.
Sites SizeSites are designed for group camping and equestrian use, accommodating up to 25 guests and 25 horses.
Sites PrivacyThe campground is secluded and quiet, as noted in reviews such as "quiet and secluded" and "love the fact that you have the whole camp to yourself."
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCampsite 001 recommended for its seclusion and proximity to trails; upper site needs leveling and gravel.
Best CampsitesCampsite 001 is highly rated despite its challenges.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2PM
Check-out
12 PM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 25 guests and 25 horses.
Groups
The campground caters to group equestrian camping with space for up to 25 people and horses. Reviewers appreciated the spacious and secluded nature of the site, highlighting its suitability for large groups.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutNull
Open and Closed SeasonApril 01, 2025 - November 27, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityThis horse camp is not available for walk-up reservations.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before arrival; cancellations within 14 days of check-in incur a $10 fee and first night's recreation use fee may be forfeited. Changes to reservation dates outside original dates incur $10 fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Old Virginia Group Horse Camp emphasizes equestrian activities with direct trail access to the Virginia Highlands Horse Trail, Iron Mountain Trail, and Virginia Creeper Trail. Other activities include wildlife viewing, hunting, fishing, and camping. Weather and trail conditions can vary by season.
Hiking
The campground provides easy access to hiking trails such as the Virginia Highlands Horse Trail, Iron Mountain Trail, and Virginia Creeper Trail. The Virginia Creeper Trail spans 33.4 miles and includes about 100 trestles and bridges.Fishing
Fishing is available in nearby streams and creeks, but specific details about fish species or fishing quality were not provided.Biking
The Virginia Creeper Trail supports biking with its 33.4 miles of scenic paths and numerous trestles and bridges.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is listed as an activity, but details on commonly seen species or viewing areas were not provided.Winter Activities
Reviewers’ mentions of weather included snow during spring, but specific winter activities such as skiing or snowshoeing were not noted.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports were not mentioned as an activity at this campground.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Moving firewood is illegal; firewood must be acquired locally.
- Quiet hours are Null
Hazards
General hazardsNo potable water; small creek as sole water source for horses.
Active alertsNull
Weather forecast
60
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 57%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 8.2 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Null
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 01, 2025 - November 27, 2025.
Trash and recyclingDumpster facilities are available on-site for trash disposal, as mentioned by multiple reviewers.
Proximity to water featuresSituated along a stream that flows into Fox Creek.
Common complaintsUser reviews highlight the need for maintenance; issues with leveling and wet areas during spring rain.
HostNull
Campground Map
3714 Highway 16, Marion, VA, 24354, USA
Driving directionsTake exit 45 off I-81 at Marion, Virginia. Take Rt.16 south for approximately 17 miles to VA 603 at Troutdale. Turn right onto VA 603 and drive for about 3 miles to the campground on the right. Follow signs.
The campground is easily accessed from a paved road.Nearby places
Marion (25 minutes to nearest Walmart)
Nearby supplies
Marion Walmart is approximately 25 minutes away.
Camper Reviews
4.3
6 reviews
Old Virginia Group Horse Camp is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews indicate a generally positive experience with the campground's seclusion, trail access, and horse-friendly features. However, some users noted maintenance issues, uneven ground, and wet conditions during certain seasons.
Review Summaries
Based on 6 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praised the quiet, secluded environment and access to equestrian trails. "We love the fact that you have the whole camp to yourself," and "The camp itself is spacious, beautiful, and secluded"...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints included maintenance needs such as uneven sites and muddy conditions during rainy weather. "The upper site needs leveling a little and some gravel," and "The sites to the right need...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring plenty of potable water for drinking and tools for manure removal. Reviewers recommended wheelbarrows or buckets for handling horse waste. "We made it work, also, there is a place for manure...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Spring weather was noted to bring a mix of snow, rain, and warm days, impacting site conditions. "We experienced every type of weather possible. From days warm enough for shorts, to one day waking up...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"The camp itself is spacious, beautiful, and secluded." "We love the fact that you have the whole camp to yourself." "It is quiet, about 25-30 mins to the nearest store."
Based on 6 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site 001 was highlighted in multiple reviews with feedback such as "The upper site needs leveling a little," and "It is very wet during the spring and when it rains."
Based on 6 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific accessibility reviews were provided.
Based on 6 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet policies were not explicitly mentioned, and no reviews focused on pet experiences.
Based on 6 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025