Best Equestrian Camping near Cumberland Island National Seashore
Cary State Forest Campground accommodates visitors with horses, offering spacious sites where equestrians occasionally bring their mounts. The campground features six well-spaced sites with water and electric hookups, set back from the main road for enhanced privacy. Trails throughout the forest provide riding opportunities, though the campground itself does not have dedicated horse corrals or stabling facilities. Mosquitoes and yellow flies can be abundant depending on weather conditions, particularly after rain when the hard-pack roads become muddy. The camping area includes basic amenities such as picnic tables, fire pits with benches, clean restrooms with hot showers, and a sanitary dump station.
Located in Bryceville, Florida, approximately 35 miles from Cumberland Island National Seashore, the forest offers miles of trails suitable for horse riding through pine woodlands. Riders appreciate the quiet setting and minimal human traffic that creates a peaceful environment for both horses and campers. The large, level sites accommodate horse trailers with ample room for setup. Trail access begins directly from the campground, allowing for convenient daily rides without trailering. While wildlife sightings are relatively sparse, campers may encounter local fauna including pygmy rattlesnakes. The forest's trail system provides moderate terrain suitable for most riding abilities. Equestrians should bring their own water troughs, tie-out equipment, and insect repellent for both themselves and their horses, as the forest environment can harbor significant insect activity during warmer months.
