Little Tallapoosa Park and McIntosh Reserve Park are the main equestrian camping destinations near Hiram, Georgia. Located in Carroll County, these parks provide specialized camping facilities that accommodate horses and riders. Little Tallapoosa features designated horse camping with 12 sites providing power and water hookups, while McIntosh Reserve offers primitive riverside camping with dedicated horse sites. The region maintains specialized trail systems suitable for horseback riding that connect to local waterways.
What to do
Trail riding on the Pinhoti Trail: Camping at Coleman Lake Rec Area provides access to the Pinhoti Trail system that runs from Alabama to Georgia. "The Pinhoti Trail that extends from south Alabama to north Georgia goes right beside the lake and is a great section hike," notes Amanda D., who adds this location is "very remote" with "no cell phone service at all."
Fishing at multiple locations: Most equestrian camping parks feature fishing opportunities. At Coleman Lake, campers report success with bass fishing. "Caught 3 bass in the lake. You can't beat the price," states Jason G. The Chattahoochee River access points also provide fishing opportunities directly from campsites.
Water activities beyond riding: While maintaining focus on equestrian activities, some parks offer complementary water features. "There is a splash pad and a new looking playground" at McIntosh Reserve, according to Sarah S., who also notes signs prohibiting swimming in the river "due to the strong current."
What campers like
Space between sites: At 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," explains Tiffany D., who found these paved trails particularly useful with "a baby in a stroller."
Multiple camping areas: Diverse camping options exist within individual parks. At McIntosh Reserve Park, "The camping layout falls somewhere between dispersed camping and a traditional campground," according to Sarah S., who explains "I was told I could pull up to any site with a fire pit. There were picnic tables and trash cans at most sites."
Affordability: The region offers budget-friendly camping options. McIntosh Reserve charges "$20 per night, parking for one vehicle included. Extra vehicles require $5 parking pass per day," according to recent visitor Sarah S. Coleman Lake Recreation Area provides "water & electric, flush toilets and shower. $16/nt," as noted by David M.
What you should know
Reservation systems vary: Not all equestrian parks use the same booking procedures. At McIntosh Reserve, "Camping is first come first served basis, no reservations," states Sarah S., while noting that after 8pm, "the park gate closes" requiring a gate code for re-entry.
Bathroom facility differences: Facilities vary significantly between parks. At Quail Run at Pate's Creek, expect "No frills private camping" with basic toilet facilities. Joseph P. notes it's "Great location if you're driving through or visiting Atlanta. It's just off the interstate, and there are plenty of restaurants around."
Seasonal considerations: While most parks remain open year-round, operating schedules may change. Coleman Lake Recreation Area operates from "March to December" according to park information, with some campers visiting during holidays. "I camped there on Halloween with my grandkids," shares Evan S., noting organized activities like trick-or-treating.
