15 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Cottonwood Patch Campground features horse corrals designed for equestrian campers exploring the Cohutta Wilderness area. The primitive campground offers level sites with picnic tables and is frequently used by horseback riders as a base for trail access. Basic amenities include a pit toilet that receives regular maintenance. While not directly situated on the river, water access is available within walking distance. The campground layout accommodates both traditional tent camping and RVs with space for horse trailers. Most visitors bring horses tied near their vehicles, creating a community atmosphere among equestrian enthusiasts.
The campground connects to numerous trails in the surrounding wilderness, with several designated specifically for horseback riding. Campers often use Cottonwood Patch as a launching point for day rides throughout the Cohutta Wilderness trail system. Jacks River Fields Campground provides another option for horse camping in the region, offering two paddocks for equestrian use. This well-maintained campground is split between a dedicated horse camp section and creekside camping areas for non-equestrian visitors. The proximity to the Benton McKaye Trail offers excellent riding opportunities. Many trails in the area accommodate horses year-round, though seasonal conditions can affect accessibility during winter months or after heavy rainfall.
"There’s a hiking trail that connects to the Benton McKaye just across from campsite and if you are a bringing horses there are two paddocks for them as well."
"Please be kind and do not leave trash behind."
from $5 / night
"This was a beautiful little spot next to a creek. There are 5 sites in all. It was a Monday in August, and there were two spots available."
"There is a beautiful waterfall about a mile down trail from camp and tons of great swimming areas!"
"Lovely little spot next to a very swimmable and warm crystal clear river - very popular with locals, and I imagine would be packed on weekends."
"Bath house is relatively nice for a state park campground. 1 mile walking path surrounding the grounds is nice. Safe area for bicycle riding. Great proximity to many outdoor activities."
"The site is surrounded by trees and connects to the nature trail which goes down to the Hiwasee, so there can be some mild foot traffic nearby. It's simple, with a firepit and maybe picnic tables."
"A lot of equestrians stay here but anyone can. It does have a pit toilet that was maintained."
from $8 / night
Check Availability"Great campground surrounded by the beauty of the North Georgia mountains. Also a working horse farm so be sure and schedule a guided horseback ride. Full hookup sites that are private."
"Good sized campground tucked into the mountains. I brought my dog with me and had a great time. There is a lake that you can fish in, stables to ride horses, and hiking trails on the campground."
"As an Eagle Scout from around this area, this was our go-to place for summer camp and occasional other camping trips as well."
from $10 - $25 / night
Check Availability"It is, however, a free, primitive camping site just a short 5 min drive (or walk) from the Rocktown trailhead. The close proximity to the many wonders of Rocktown is a dream for climbers."
"This is a nice primitive camp site just a 2 min walk from Petty John Cave and a 5 min drive to Rock Town Trailhead. Come here to try your hand at rock climbing and spelunking."
from $2 - $38 / night
GuideHopefully they open it up soon but we drove about an hour to get here just for it to be closed. The whole road seems to be closed for the time being for road work. I hope this helps someone!.
The 5-8 miles up to this area do seem a little sketchy but we were hoping the actually site would be nice and hopefully it will be after the work they are doing right now.
RangerWe stayed here 5/15- 5/17 and had a wonderful time. The bathrooms were great & the playground was a huge hit with all the kids. They also loved catching little minnows in the streambed of the boat launch. There is a trail that surrounds camp that's great for little adventures or even a short mountain bike
ScoutWe stayed at one of the tent sites. Power and water at each side was a huge bonus. They had converters you could borrow for free for the plug. Bathrooms are old, but very well maintained and clean. For kids there’s 2 playgrounds, a fishing/ swimming pond, hiking trails. They told us they can also do pony rides but we never made it to the stables. We loved our stay and would definitely go back!
GuideBeautiful spots down Jacks river directly and conveniently on the water. Remote but could see being busy during warmer seasons. We loved it.
TravelerI’m not a planner so I tend to find spots late in the day and just take what I get. I was so pleased when I pulled into the park at sunset to find only one other camper! The park is beautiful and very well kept. A ranger drove by while I was having coffee the next morning and was very laid back and completely unbothered that I had arrived after hours. This was a Monday morning and he told me they were packed over the weekend and I was floored because it was so clean! The restroom is huge with showers and was older but clean. Absolutely recommend.
ScoutMy girls group and I wanted to do a quick weekend glamping trip. One long rocky road and an active bear warning later we were rocking it by the creek. Bring a bathing suit and some good hiking shoes. There’s a giant waterfall down the trail if you can make the trek. There’s no cell service or security so make sure you’re making safe decisions :)
TravelerLovely little spot next to a very swimmable and warm crystal clear river - very popular with locals, and I imagine would be packed on weekends. Accessible easily from a 2WD just off of a long gravel road. There are about 5 or 6 good spots, also bring your river walking shoes or a fishing rod!
ScoutWe were recommended to stay at site 25 by the worker at check in. Very steep and unlevel roads; especially when leaving. Our camper came in contact with the side of our bed and tailgate multiple times. In the end we suffered a hole busted in our front cap from it hitting the side of the truck, we damaged the side of our truck bed and broke every support on our rear ladder. Upon check out we advised of damages and were only met with an“I’m sorry.” 10/10 do not recommend if you own a fifth wheel or even a low riding bumper pull.
TravelerBeautifully well maintained, clean grounds! Beautiful lake and stables and plenty of room ,yet campsites are tucked away to also give u a private feel as well! Pet friendly as well!
Equestrian camping opportunities abound near Carters Lake, a region known for its diverse terrain and well-maintained trail systems. The Cohutta Wilderness area maintains several dedicated equestrian camping facilities at elevations between 1,200 and 2,200 feet, creating varied riding experiences throughout the year. Fall temperatures average 55-70°F during the day, making it a prime season for horse camping activities.
Trail riding in Cohutta Wilderness: The extensive trail network provides both novice and experienced riders with options ranging from 2-mile loops to 15+ mile adventures. Jacks River Fields Campground connects directly to the Benton McKaye Trail. "We love this campsite! There's a hiking trail that connects to the Benton McKaye just across from campsite and if you are bringing horses there are two paddocks for them as well," notes Liz B.
Swimming and creek exploration: Many horse campgrounds offer water access for both riders and horses after long trail rides. "We were the only campers around and we had an amazing time! Picked a spot right beside a stream," shares Sarah N. about her experience at Jacks River Fields. Most water access points are shallow enough for horses to cool off safely.
Cave exploration near equestrian sites: Sawmill Lake Campsite provides access to Petty John Cave. "This is a nice primitive camp site just a 2 min walk from Petty John Cave and a 5 min drive to Rock Town Trailhead. Come here to try your hand at rock climbing and spelunking," reports Lisa. Some trails from horse camps lead directly to cave entrances.
Secluded camping with horses: The quiet atmosphere allows for true wilderness experience with your equine companions. "Quiet and secluded... The most recent time, there were just two other couples so it was still very low key," reports Liz B. about Jacks River Fields Campground.
Level camping spots: Many campgrounds offer flat areas designed specifically for horse trailers and camping gear. "Level spots with picnic tables. Not directly on the river but is accessible. A lot of equestrians stay here but anyone can," notes Bob P. about Cottonwood Patch Campground.
Clean facilities: Despite the remote locations, many horse campgrounds maintain basic amenities. "Well kept and clean. I was there on Wednesday and no one was there. Please be kind and do not leave trash behind," mentions Bob P. about the horse camp section at Jacks River Fields.
Road conditions to horse camps: Many access roads require careful driving, especially with horse trailers. "The road up there is extremely rough and washed out. We were in a Subaru Outback, and it was a very slow-going, bumpy ride — we bottomed out several times," warns Abigail P. about reaching Sawmill Lake Campsite.
Wildlife awareness: The Cohutta area has active wildlife, including bears in some locations. "There was a pit toilet with plenty of toilet paper and it was quite clean. There's also a bear box and signs clearly indicating there are bears around and that you should keep all food in your vehicle or use the box," notes Mike H. about camping at Hickey Gap.
Permit requirements: Some horse camping areas require permits or passes. "You do need a land pass to be here, the website is on the sign coming in and it was around $60," mentions Sierra Y. about staying at Sawmill Lake. Always check current requirements before arrival.
Water recreation options: Kids can enjoy swimming while adults tend to horses. Hickey Gap offers "a beautiful little spot next to a creek. There are 5 sites in all," according to Mike H. "There is a beautiful waterfall about a mile down trail from camp and tons of great swimming areas!" adds John B.
Playground access: Some horse campgrounds include play areas for children. "The campground also has a playground to keep kids entertained," mentions Anna M. about Gee Creek Campground, making it suitable for families with both horses and young children.
Winter considerations: Family trips with horses require extra preparation during colder months. "During winter campground is very quiet, no power at sites, it does have hot showers," notes Byron R. about seasonal conditions at nearby camping options.
Trailer parking challenges: Horse trailer and RV combinations require careful site selection. Trackrock Campground notes specific challenges: "Very steep and unlevel roads; especially when leaving. Our camper came in contact with the side of our bed and tailgate multiple times," warns Anthony M., highlighting the importance of careful site selection when bringing both horses and living quarters.
Equestrian-specific hookups: Some campgrounds offer specialized services for horse trailers with living quarters. "We were nervous about parking and getting set up- but they helped us get a spot that was easy to pull into," shares Jessica M. about her 38-foot Class A experience at Trackrock, which accommodates both RVs and horses.
Weight distribution: When traveling with horses and RVs, proper weight distribution becomes critical. "The driveway to and from the camp area is quite steep. Our 2WD (front wheel drive) Honda Passport struggled to get back up it on our way out, and we had to hit the steepest part with some speed to make it out," cautions Mike H. about accessing steeper horse camping areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Carters Lake?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Carters Lake is Jacks River Fields Campground — Chattahoochee Oconee National Forest with a 5-star rating from 3 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Carters Lake?
TheDyrt.com has all 15 equestrian camping locations near Carters Lake, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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