Equestrian camping near Buford, Georgia offers specialized facilities where riders and their horses can stay overnight. The region sits within the Piedmont plateau at approximately 1,200 feet elevation, experiencing mild winters and humid summers with average July temperatures reaching 90°F. Most horse-friendly campgrounds in the area operate year-round but often require reservations during peak equestrian event seasons from April through October.
What to do
Trail riding at Don Carter State Park: Located on Lake Lanier near Gainesville, this park offers dedicated riding areas. "A great place to camp with lots of hiking trails; there's even a canoe trail! Campground is well maintained and bath houses are clean," notes Kevan R. in his Don Carter State Park Campground review.
Swimming with horses: Several equestrian facilities permit supervised horse swimming during summer months. "I was able to walk off of the back of our site and onto the trail system, which is perfect because we are avid hikers," shares George & Patty C. about their experience at Hard Labor Creek State Park Campground.
Visit nearby equestrian events: Many facilities host competitions and demonstrations within 30-45 minutes of Buford. "This park has an amazing staff that is there when you need them and not there when you don't! The camp hosts are friendly, the Ranger rides through on a regular basis and is friendly/outgoing," George & Patty C. mentioned about Hard Labor Creek State Park.
What campers like
Waterfront horse camping sites: Some equestrian campgrounds offer sites where horses can be kept near water access. "We lucked out and got a waterfront site (site 4) due to the fact somebody checked out early. We had a happy little bonus of getting to watch the beavers play in the river early in the morning," wrote Nicolle about Newton Factory Shoals Rec Area.
Farm animals and rural atmosphere: Several horse camping areas feature additional livestock. "We really enjoyed our time at Liberty Stables! Will definitely stay there again as our granddaughters live nearby! Highly recommend!" shared Leslie V. about Liberty Stables, where guests can camp alongside horses and other farm animals.
Clean equestrian facilities: Horse campers repeatedly mention facility cleanliness as important. "They have fire pits and a main bath house with a shower. I will say that you should probably bring flipflops for the shower because it doesn't look like it's been cleaned in a year but it's nice having a option for one," Addison C. noted about Newton Factory Shoals.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most equestrian sites require advance booking, especially during event weekends. "Very crowded weekends, great weekdays," Christina reported about Hard Labor Creek State Park, adding "The weekend nights were so crowded with cars spilling into the camp roads, loads of large groups at each site. Felt very claustrophobic. On weekdays the park became a lovely ghost town."
Temporary corrals needed: Unlike some Western horse camps, most Georgia facilities don't provide permanent corrals. Bring portable fencing, picket lines, or high-ties for overnight horse containment.
Limited cell service: Communication can be spotty at rural equestrian camps. "Cell phone service is very spotty in the park but that is alright with us, camping is about getting AWAY and enjoying the outdoors, not staring at your electronic devices!" noted George & Patty C. at Cherokee Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly horse experiences: Several camps offer pony encounters for younger visitors. "We love that it's on the lake because family members have boats and its just easy to jump on at the campsite dock. There is also a beach for the kids to play at as well, very well kept," Cameron G. shared about Don Carter State Park.
Beginner-friendly horse trails: Look for facilities with designated easy routes. "Great campsite for beginners and families," Christopher P. noted about Don Carter, adding "Great spot by the lake. Private, plenty of access to the water, not too far from parking lot end. Watch the boats launch if you want to or easy to fish."
Family bathroom facilities: Some horse camps offer dedicated family restrooms. "The comfort stations have restrooms/showers, as well as two family restroom/shower facilities. The comfort stations also feature vending machines (drinks) and a laundry facility!" explained George & Patty C. about Hard Labor Creek State Park.
Tips from RVers
Horse trailer parking considerations: Ensure sites can accommodate both your RV and horse trailer. "The layout of the camp park is very 3D as the roads wind up and down through the mountain forest. There is lots of shade and a beautiful lake. Staff were very friendly and helpful. One helped me get our rig backed safely in to our site," David S. mentioned about Timber Ridge Resort.
RV size limitations: Many equestrian sites have length restrictions. "Nice level lots. Very quiet. The owner is a great person. The bath house is a little dated but always spotless," Colin M. noted about Cherokee Campground.
Hook-up availability: Not all horse camping areas offer full connections. "If you've never visited this beautiful park, you are missing out on one of our hidden gems!" wrote George & Patty C. about Hard Labor Creek State Park, which offers varied hookup options for RVers bringing horses.
