Little Tallapoosa Park and McIntosh Reserve Park provide primary equestrian camping near Powder Springs, Georgia, with dedicated facilities for horses and riders. The parks offer approximately 25 miles of mixed-use trails specifically designed for horseback riding through wooded terrain. Most horse trails connect to water features including the Chattahoochee and Tallapoosa Rivers, allowing riders to incorporate water views into their trail experience.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: McIntosh Reserve Park features well-maintained trails with clear markers and blazes for navigation. "The park has wide trails for horseback riding. I hiked the 2 mile Eagle Loop Trail and saw a mountain biker as well. I saw signs for an Orienteering Course," notes Sarah S. about McIntosh Reserve Park.
Riverside activities: Access points along the Chattahoochee River provide fishing opportunities directly from campsites. "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," reports a visitor to McIntosh Reserve.
Family recreation: Several parks feature water-based recreation areas for children during summer months. "Splash park was fun and clean for the kids as well as really nice walking trails we enjoyed," mentions Andy M. about his experience at Little Tallapoosa Park.
What campers like
Clean facilities: The bathhouse facilities receive positive feedback for cleanliness and modern amenities. "Friendly neighbors, nice comfort station with bathrooms, showers, laundry and a little free library. Lots of level tent sites next to pavilions with playground equipment," shares Danna D. about Little Tallapoosa Park.
Spaciousness: Sites provide ample room for equipment and multiple vehicles. "Plenty of space there with power and water. Sewer hookup is only available in the RV section. Tons of walking/horse trails to go along with a creek and a couple of lakes," reports Hollis K. about the horse camp area at Little Tallapoosa Park.
Location convenience: Campers appreciate proximity to urban amenities while maintaining natural surroundings. "Great location if you're driving through or visiting Atlanta. It's just off the interstate, and there are plenty of restaurants around. Also there's a Dollar General at the end of the road if you need anything," says Joseph P. about Quail Run at Pate's Creek.
What you should know
Reservation systems: Most equestrian campgrounds operate on different reservation policies. "Camping is first come first served basis, no reservations. $20 per night, parking for one vehicle included. Extra vehicles require $5 parking pass per day. They take credit card," explains Sarah S. about McIntosh Reserve Park.
Bathroom access: Bathroom locations can be distant from some campsites. "Bathrooms were far from camp spots but portor potties were nearby," notes Samantha S. about primitive camping areas.
Swimming restrictions: Despite riverside locations, swimming is prohibited in certain areas. "There are many signs prohibiting swimming in the river due to the strong current. There is no beach and in most places, the river bank is steep," warns a camper about the Chattahoochee River access.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature playground equipment adjacent to camping areas. "This place is a great place for family reunions or birthday parties. They even do Easter egg hunts every year. Also, for those that are into Geocashing, there are a few you could find here," recommends DeWayne H. about James Shackleford Memorial Park.
Splash pad options: Summer visitors can utilize splash pads for children's water recreation. "Just camped here recently with some friends and our kids. Took the kids to the spaslh pad and enjoyed cooking out and hanging out over night," shares Ryan N. about his experience at McIntosh Reserve.
Trail difficulty levels: Trails vary in difficulty, with paved options available for strollers. "Super quiet, lots of trails to follow - including paved ones (bonus for us as we have a baby in a stroller), full hook ups (w,e,s), and has a splash park during the summer time," reports Tiffany D.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RV campers should consider specific sections for optimal hookups. "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. Sewer hookup is only available in the RV section," advises Hollis K.
Leveling requirements: Site terrain varies across campgrounds. "The sites are nice and paved with full hookups. There was even a dish at are site for satellite," notes Swain K. about Equitopian Escape Farm.
Cell reception: Most campgrounds maintain adequate cell service for connectivity needs. "Good cell reception with AT&T and Verizon," confirms Laura M. about Little Tallapoosa Park.
