Horse camping near Chattahoochee Hills, Georgia provides convenient access to the Chattahoochee River, with many campsites positioned along riverbanks for water access. The region features forested landscapes with a mix of pine and hardwood trees typical of northwest Georgia. Most equestrian campgrounds in this area maintain wide trails ranging from 3-10 feet across to accommodate both hikers and horseback riders.
What to do
Fishing from campsites: At McIntosh Reserve Park, campers can fish directly from their sites along the Chattahoochee River. "I saw people fishing in the Chattahoochee River right off of their campsite. There is a small rapid that stretches across the river near sites 1-10, so you get that nice water flowing sound to fall asleep to!" notes Sarah S.
Hiking riverside trails: Take advantage of the River Trail at McIntosh Reserve, which runs between the campsites and riverbank. "There are signs for an Orienteering Course. There is a splash pad and a new looking playground that from a glance, might be ADA accessible," writes Sarah S.
Kayak the Chattahoochee: Several equestrian campgrounds near Chattahoochee Hills offer river access points for paddling. "There was a sign at the bathhouse for paddling the river and various parks to camp along the way," reports a camper at McIntosh Reserve.
Visit historical sites: The region contains significant historical landmarks. "Historical sites on the drive in. Great place for family, splash pad in the park," writes Buddy G. about McIntosh Reserve Park.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Little Tallapoosa Park campers appreciate the layout. "This is a smaller park, but the sites are spread out well. Super quiet, lots of trails to follow - including paved ones (bonus for us as we have a baby in a stroller)," writes Tiffany D.
Separate camping sections: Many equestrian facilities near Chattahoochee Hills maintain designated camping areas. "I love the separate tent & RV campsites. The tent sites are decent size and there is some wooded space between each one so it felt quiet and semi-private," notes Sarah F. at Little Tallapoosa Park.
Well-maintained facilities: Campers consistently mention the upkeep of horse campgrounds in this region. "Everything is well maintained from the roads, campsites, unpaved trails, and bathrooms. I was impressed with how clean everything was despite being a campground," reports Zachary N.
Gate code access after hours: "I was given a gate code in case I needed to leave and return during the closed hours," notes Sarah S. about McIntosh Reserve Park, allowing campers flexibility even when the park gate closes at 8pm.
What you should know
First-come camping options: Coleman Lake Rec Area operates without reservations. "Great camping option for first come. Glad to get plenty of options for sites. Long drive in. Hosts were great and even deliver firewood to your site," says Wendy L.
No cell service in some areas: Remote equestrian campgrounds may lack connectivity. "The only negative is that there is absolutely no cell service at all. The nearest reliable service is literally 6 miles down the road. This can certainly be seen as a positive," mentions Evan S.
Water spigots and bathroom locations: "The camping layout falls somewhere between dispersed camping and a traditional campground. When I checked in, I was told I could pull up to any site with a fire pit," explains Sarah S., noting the newer block bathroom with shower at McIntosh Reserve Park.
Campground access roads: When traveling to horse camping facilities, watch for navigation issues. "Make sure you use Highway 78 to enter. Google Maps will send you on a 11.5 mile mountain trail (Dugger Mountain Road) that is a dirt 2 track over the mountain...an interesting trip with a camper," warns Micheal S.
Tips for camping with families
Look for splash pads: Several equestrian campgrounds offer water features for children. "Took the kids to the splash pad and enjoyed cooking out and hanging out over night. We live close by so for a night trip this is a perfect little getaway," shares Ryan N. about Quail Run at Pate's Creek.
Check for family events: Some campgrounds host seasonal activities. "I camped there on Halloween with my grandkids. My Frankie's dressed in costume for me but the camp host saw them and made a point of inviting them for campground trick or treating," reports Evan S.
Biking opportunities: Many horse trails near Chattahoochee Hills double as bike paths. "My kids enjoyed biking around the camping loop and we did some geocaching. For the price ($15/night), this is a pretty great place to camp," says Sarah F.
Look for playgrounds: "Coleman Lake has a Beach area and playground in the day use area," notes Lisa W., highlighting amenities beyond horse trails that keep children entertained.
Tips from RVers
Check RV size limitations: When exploring equestrian campgrounds, confirm your rig will fit. "Bigger campers could opt for sites 8 or 9 which don't have trees," advises Sarah S. about Equitopian Escape Farm. Many horse sites accommodate larger rigs but specific spots may be limited.
Overflow sections at peak times: During busy periods, some parks offer alternative options. "We stayed in the horse camp section because the RV area was full. They use the horse camp area as overflow. Plenty of space there with power and water," mentions Hollis K.
Pay attention to hookup locations: Many equestrian campgrounds offer varying levels of service. "We had site #30, and did not feel crowded at all despite the campground being full," reports David M., noting that Coleman Lake has water and electric hookups.
Check site surfaces: RV campers should prepare for varied parking conditions. "This is a very clean park with paved loop and sites. It had nice grassy areas and swing set and bike and walking trails. Full hook ups are available," observes Laura M.
