1 campground with availability this weekend
Franklin D Roosevelt State Park Campground supports horseback riding with equestrian trails and stable rentals available within the park. Located near Pine Mountain, Georgia, this campground offers campsites with water and electric hookups suitable for tent camping, RVs, cabins, and glamping accommodations. The campground provides picnic tables, fire rings, showers, and clean restroom facilities. The park contains approximately 40 miles of trails that can be used for hiking and horseback riding, with numerous access points near the camping areas. The Liberty Bell Pool offers a refreshing swim after trail rides through the wooded areas.
Equestrian trail rides are available through the park's horse stables, providing an alternative for campers who don't bring their own horses. The Pine Mountain Trail system connects riders to scenic overlooks and historical sites throughout the 9,049-acre park, including Dowdell's Knob where President Roosevelt frequently visited. Trail riders particularly enjoy the forested terrain with multiple stream crossings and varied elevation changes. The campground serves as an excellent base for exploring nearby attractions including Callaway Gardens, Wild Animal Safari, and Roosevelt's Little White House in Warm Springs. Campers should note that while horses are accommodated through the rental program, the campground itself does not have dedicated horse corrals for campers' personal horses.
"Roosevelt State Park you are surrounded by forest, lakes, streams, rock formations and campsites are quiet and private. We stayed in site #114 directly on the lake. "
"Several projects done by the CCC. 40 miles of trails to hike/bike. A CCC built pond where you can rent paddle boats or bring your own kayak or canoe. "
Available this weekend
from $12 - $500 / night
"When we got there Friday afternoon we had a great view of the lake, but after 5:00 the place filled up quickly. If you want an unobstructed view of the lake you should rent a lakeside spot."
"We had lake front site #6. Had our kayak and small fishing boat at site shore. Our golden retrievers loved being at the water. Sites are very large with good space between them."
from $30 / night
"The campground is located on West Point Lake, where bald eagles soar."
"Great, quiet park with lots of walking and biking trails nearby. All the sites are wooded and spaced out so you don’t have any issues with privacy."
Campground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $36 - $72 / night
"Grab a trail map at the ranger station or see most sites marked on google maps. I did inquire with a non-ranger employee at the ranger station if a permit was needed and he said no."
ScoutSite is a good size located on the shore of Lake Delano under trees. Great view. Fire ring and picnic table equipped. The temp is still hot and humid but there is a breeze which makes it bearable in the daytime, nights are cooler and comfortable. Plenty to explore with Pine Mountain Trail close by. Would stay here again. This site is water and electric only with dump station at entrance.
LegendThis is a typical park where not all sites are created equal. Some are paved, some are gravel. Some have 50 amp, some are 30-amp. Some are perfectly level and some have really steep grades. Some sites are pull-thru, some are back-in. Some are really long, some are much shorter. The roads in the campground are paved, free of potholes, and fairly easily navigable for big-rigs. All sites are pet-friendly and have water and electric. There are no sewer sites. Campsites 1-27 and 85-106 have 50-amp electric while the others are 30-amp. Some sites (40, 47, 50, 52, 65, 80, 84, 87, 89, 101) are “double-unit” (or buddy) sites which is reflective in the $60/night price. There are bathrooms scattered throughout the campground in each loop but there are only two shower houses in the entire campground. Sites 1-16 are perfectly level as are a few others. Reservations can be made online and the website has pictures and descriptions as well as length of site. The campground is very dark at night with the only lights being at the bathrooms. We love dark campgrounds where the moon and stars are bright. Unfortunately, numerous campers left their lights all night which we find really annoying. Our Verizon phone was very spotty and not reliable. We were able to use our portable Dish satellite to get television. There is a dump station located conveniently on your way out which is quite busy on Sundays at check out.
ScoutI have been to FDR 3 times in the last 3 years and I hope to come more frequently. I came here multiple times over 50 years ago and I find it as enjoyable now as I did then. The check in is always easy. It is quiet there and there is so much to do. The trails are great for hiking. The facilities are always clean.
Georgia state parks are always nice but this is my favorite.
GuideNice updated CCC corp campground. Large sites,level full hookup. Most if not all have a view of the lake. We are here on a Monday but very quiet .We are in an Airstream 28 foot but several large rigs , class A and 5th wheels Not close to full but I expect very busy in the summer and weekends. I would definitely make a reservation just 90 miles from Atlanta
GuideSome nice dispersed sites . Close to Tuskegee Airmen NP.
LegendThis review is for an early winter stay. The 500 loop was beautiful, with tall pines dominating the flora and creating a serene setting. The sites on the outside of the loop are wonderful- large, private and forested; whereas the inner sites were facing the road in many cases. We had 505 and my parents had 515, and both were really good. We played in the forest a lot with the kids, building a shelter and climbing trees. There is a small playground in the 500 loop. The other camping loops didn't look quite as private. The park is super close to Callaway Gardens, so we were able to check in and get setup on Friday late afternoon and still get to see the Holiday Light show at Callaway, which is pricey but very cool and worth a one time experience. The state park itself is huge, spanning at least 15 miles with trails throughout. There is one trail that is over 20 miles. The lookout where FDR spent time and had a picnic spot was stunning. We also really enjoyed the Cascade Falls trail, which had several small waterfalls along the way. This park leaves little to be desired for a weekend camping getaway.
TravelerOur stay at F.D. Roosevelt Campground was a mix of beautiful nature and frustrating logistics.
📅 Reservation Issues One of the biggest challenges we experienced was trying to secure a campsite on short notice. The reservation system felt rigid — same-day bookings weren’t available online, which made planning last-minute trips difficult and stressful. The online reads like same day walk ups are non existent.
đźšż Cleanliness of Facilities The bathrooms and showers generally stayed clean and maintained.
💰 Pricing for Tent Camping For tent camping, the nightly rate felt on the high side compared to what you’d expect — particularly if you’re just pitching a basic tent without hookups or extra amenities. We paid $43 per night here for a simple tent stay. It felt a bit steep for what you get unless you’re taking full advantage of the trails, lakes, or historical sites.
🌲 Overall Vibe While the setting is beautiful and there’s plenty to do around the park — from hiking trails to nearby historic spots — the combination of reservation headaches and cost for basic camping made our experience a bit of a mixed bag.
Scout14 established campsites throughout this small National Forest. Some spaced apart as much as half a mile. I drove by all accessible spots and only one was taken on a mid October Tuesday. Some sites wide open, some with trees. As of Oct 2025, three sites that are south of 29 are not accessible due to Thunder rd being closed. Grab a trail map at the ranger station or see most sites marked on google maps. I did inquire with a non-ranger employee at the ranger station if a permit was needed and he said no. Ranger station was closed due to gov shutdown.
GuideWe stayed here in June, Thursday through Monday, two people with a tent. The experience was... memorable, though not always for the right reasons.Â
The bathhouses are something out of a post-apocalyptic travel journal— rusted fixtures, broken tiles, and enough cockroaches and spiders to start a nature documentary. Yes, they are“cleaned” occasionally, but whatever’s happening isn’t winning the war. They’re not just in the mist of past centuries— they’re lost in a heavy, choking fog.Â
Facilities are very limited, and it’s clear this campground wasn’t designed with tent campers in mind. You’ll wait in line for restrooms, and you won’t enjoy it.Â
The sites themselves? Old, worn, and could desperately use even a single coat of fresh paint— but the lawns are mowed, and the forest is real. If you value privacy, you’ll love the layout: each site is tucked deep into the woods, with excellent space and seclusion.
 But beware: the gate is locked shut from 10 PM to 8 AM, no exceptions unless the elderly host personally deems your emergency worthy. Installing a simple keypad would save everyone time and dignity.Â
Starlink users: take note— if the lake is high, the shoreline disappears, and with it, any chance of a clear shot to the sky. Reception through the trees was very poor.Â
Wildlife is busy here— armadillos, raccoons, and rabbits all feel quite at home on your tent pad. It’s charming, if you’re into that kind of thing.Â
The lake sees constant activity: motorboats, water skiing, even boats creeping along at night. It’s not peaceful water. If you came to paddle in silence or sleep early, this might not be your dream spot— unless the noisy party crowd is your own.
Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park Campground accommodates equestrian camping near Columbus, Georgia, with approximately 40 miles of trails suitable for horseback riding. Located in Pine Mountain, about 35 miles north of Columbus, the park spans 9,049 acres with varied terrain and multiple stream crossings. Temperatures range from 30°F in winter to 90°F in summer, making spring and fall optimal for horse-related activities.
Trail ride exploration: The Pine Mountain Trail system offers horseback riders access to scenic overlooks including Dowdell's Knob. "Very clean and shady sights, being upgraded this year. Many trails a lake and history," notes Carol L., who visited R. Shaefer Heard Campground.
Swimming options: After a trail ride, cool off in the Liberty Bell Pool or nearby lake. "We fished and swam, they also had a scavenger hunt that you kids loved doing. We camped in campground 5 and from where our site was we could see the playground and also let our kids ride there bikes around the circle that the camp sites where on," reports Joshua H. from Franklin D Roosevelt State Park Campground.
Historical sites: Explore the former president's connections to the area while camping. "First time I came here, I was about 12 years old. I returned when I bought my first camper at 34 years old and wanted to test it out for the first time. 3rd time, I brought my wife to show this amazing place. Great camping spots with lots of trees and a creek running through."
Diverse terrain: The West Point Lake area provides variety for horseback riders. "My favorite spots are 115 & 116. They are next to the restroom, and the Go doesn't have one, and they are secluded in a private cove. They lock the gate at 10, sharp, and tend to have some trouble with sewerage during rainy seasons," explains Jan P.
Adequate spacing: Sites designed with privacy in mind reduce noise from neighboring campers. "Sites pretty level and gravel. Concrete picnic table, fire ring and light pole with lots of room fir our dogs. Bathroom facilities were very clean, with showers and laundry. Placed well around the campground," reports Liz H.
Trading Post convenience: Having supplies nearby helps when managing horses and camping equipment. "Very clean and family friendly place. Trading post available for firewood And supplies. Also short drive from the animal safari, and Callaway Gardens," states Paul N.
Gate closing restrictions: Plan your evening rides carefully around facility hours. "The gate is locked shut from 10 PM to 8 AM, no exceptions unless the elderly host personally deems your emergency worthy. Installing a simple keypad would save everyone time and dignity," cautions Denis P. from R. Shaefer Heard Campground.
Weather preparedness: Summer heat affects both horses and riders. "I will admit my review is tainted because we were here in July and it was HOT! The saving grace was the big tree in our campsite (116) and the ability to float in the water."
Limited dedicated facilities: The campground itself lacks personal horse corrals, requiring equestrians to use the rental program or arrange alternative accommodations for their horses. "This park has great camping with many, many sites of various sizes, all for roughly $30 a night. This may sound steep but the amenities by far make up for it."
Trail selection: Choose appropriate riding paths for children's skill levels. "This is one of my favorite Georgia State Parks. There are many sites to choose from and there are plenty of things to do in the area. This park is great for hikers -- lots of great trails. I went with my three kids and we all had a blast," shares Dana P. from Franklin D Roosevelt State Park Campground.
Water activities alternative: Provide options for family members not participating in horseback activities. "We had an amazing site with a great waterfront view perfect for sunsets. Kids thoroughly enjoyed playing at the edge of the water. The nearby restroom was old but serviceable and the playground was small. Trailhead is a short drive and the trails we went on were very nice."
Campsite selection: Choose sites with shade when visiting during warmer months. "We were on site 213 and 214. Beautiful wooded site lots of space between sites in this loop. Very short walk to lake. Loop 1 sites are lake front and lake view but more close together than we like."
Site limitations: Check length restrictions when bringing both an RV and horse trailer. "Reserved out spot long in advance to get a spot on the lake, please do like all campgrounds all sites are not created equal. Most all are concrete pads and level but if your camper is over 25' or so length may cause a problem," advises Ward from R. Shaefer Heard Campground.
Utility connections: Verify hookup availability for longer stays with horses. "Each site has a dirt or gravel pad, water and electricity hookups and are all situated within walking distance of a bathroom. There is also a centralised trading Post in the camp, separate from the main office."
Seasonal availability: Water access varies throughout the year. "Older facilities but the views make up for it. Water and power year round even in winter. Some spots are a little closer than others but most have woods in between so they are somewhat private."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Columbus, GA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Columbus, GA is Franklin D Roosevelt State Park Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 58 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Columbus, GA?
TheDyrt.com has all 4 equestrian camping locations near Columbus, GA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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