Equestrian camping near Clayton, Georgia offers access to the Chattooga River trail system at elevations ranging from 1,800-3,500 feet. The region's mixed hardwood forests create seasonal riding conditions with fall bringing cooler temperatures and colorful foliage. Trails in this area follow established Forest Service routes with terrain varying from gentle riverside paths to moderately steep mountain sections.
What to do
Trail riding along Chattooga River: Standing Indian Campground provides access to extensive riding options. "A beautiful trout stream runs through the park, close to all the campsites. Bathrooms and showers are clean," notes one visitor who recommends combining camping with fishing.
Swimming in mountain lakes: South Cove County Park offers water access directly from campsites. As one camper explains: "You can go into the lake right from your site. If you don't have access from your site, there is a really nice sandy beach area for swimming."
Fishing for trout: Many campgrounds offer river or stream access for fishing opportunities. Standing Indian Campground receives praise for its "beautiful trout stream" while South Cove features "great fishing. Beautiful lake with crystal clear water."
Hiking to waterfalls: The region features numerous waterfall trails. "Close to other parks with waterfalls and hiking trails," mentions one Oconee State Park visitor. Another camper shares: "I suggest the Laurel Falls trail to a gorgeous secluded waterfall where you can take a dip on a hot summer day."
What campers like
Private, well-spaced sites: Cherokee Campground offers "nice level lots. Very quiet" with "secluded" sites that provide privacy between neighbors.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain high cleanliness standards. "The bath house is a little dated but always spotless," notes a Cherokee Campground visitor. At Trackrock Campground, "the grounds are very well kept."
Lake and water features: Water access ranks highly with campers. South Cove County Park sits "out on a peninsula on Lake Keowee in Seneca, SC. Almost every site is on the water, and those that aren't, have a water view."
Horse-specific amenities: At Whetstone Horse Camp, campers appreciate the "well laid out campground with some good spots, especially further back in the campground. But definitely set up and geared for horseback riders."
What you should know
Accessibility requirements: Some horse camps require specialized vehicles. At Hurricane Creek Camp, "4x4 and some clearance a must" as one camper notes, "Lots of rocks, creeks and tight spots to make for a fun time."
Trail conditions: Trail quality varies seasonally. Whetstone trails are "clean although a little to narrow in some spots, especially when needing to pass another horse and rider but there is plenty of wide open areas that allow for the perfect opportunity to stop and rest."
Limited cell service: Connectivity is restricted in many areas. At Oconee State Park, the area is "very serene, quiet and pretty. Nice hiking area and swimming area. If you need to get ahold of someone though you'll have to drive 10 to 15 minutes into town."
Weather considerations: Mountain weather changes quickly. Trackrock visitors advise preparing for variable conditions: "The only negatives that we had on this trip. One was our first encounter with 'stink bugs'. They were everywhere and you couldn't keep them out of the RV."
Tips for camping with families
Look for playgrounds: Parks with play areas keep children engaged. South Cove County Park has "several large play areas in walking distance" and "a playground 😊."
Water activities for kids: Don Carter State Park features "a nice sandy beach, outdoor showers, large restrooms and swings ideal for sitting and enjoying a meal by the lake."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Evening wildlife spotting entertains families. "Do some animal watching or photography. From 6 in the evening and beyond you will find deer grazing in late summer and early fall."
Educational programs: Some parks offer ranger-led activities. As one visitor mentioned, "We went to a ranger program on raptors on Saturday which was interesting."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: At Trackrock Campground, visitors note "the road in was rough, the campsite was nice enough but somewhat minimal and the decor rustic. We had one outlet and water, a picnic table and a firepit."
Hookup availability: Electric and water connections vary. At Randy's Horse Camp, campsites include "drinking water, electric hookups, and tent and RV sites with creek access."
Campsite surfaces: Surface materials affect comfort. Don Carter State Park features "all paved campsites so it would be tough camping in a tent (no way to stake your tent)."
Size restrictions: Some campgrounds cannot accommodate larger rigs. Standing Indian Campground has a challenging access road: "The road to this campground is very narrow, the hill is very steep, and there is at least one very tight hairpin turn. Unless there is another way into this lovely park that I am unaware of, I would not attempt to tow a 5th wheel or other large trailer to this location."
