Horse campgrounds near Redan, Georgia provide equestrian enthusiasts with trail access and camping facilities within a 30-mile radius. The area features a mix of pine forests and hardwood stands typical of Georgia's Piedmont region, with rolling terrain at elevations ranging from 800 to 1,000 feet. Summer temperatures average in the mid-80s with high humidity, making spring and fall the most comfortable camping seasons.
What to do
Trail riding at Hard Labor Creek State Park: The park offers 22 miles of dedicated bridle paths with varied terrain for different skill levels. Equestrian campers can access trails directly from camping areas. "Hard Labor Creek State Park is one of the Georgia State Park system's best kept secrets! Located just minutes away from Rutledge, GA, HLC seems like a whole world away!" notes reviewer George & Patty C. from Hard Labor Creek State Park Campground.
Enjoy water activities: After trail riding, cool off at nearby water features. Many campgrounds offer swimming or water access. "There is a boat ramp past site 20. I saw a sign at the bathhouse for paddling the river and various parks to camp along the way," reports Sarah S. about McIntosh Reserve Park.
Visit equestrian events: The region hosts regular horse shows and competitions. "We needed a last minute place to stay on our way back home. They were very accommodating and friendly. Beautiful property with farm animals to look at," shares rachel about Liberty Stables.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many equestrian campgrounds offer extra room for horse trailers and camping equipment. "Both of the camp hosts, Pam and Sue, were constantly riding around checking on guests and were more than helpful if you needed them. On this particular visit, we stayed on site # 2 (full hook up) and there was plenty of room to stretch out!" writes George & Patty C. about Hard Labor Creek State Park.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain their shower and restroom facilities regularly. "The bathhouses are clean nice and big. The sites are pretty big, shaded, no level but not too bad I'm always prepared, and we'll mainteined," notes Winston M. about Hard Labor Creek.
Peaceful settings: Many equestrian-friendly campgrounds provide quiet environments even during busy periods. "We really enjoyed our time at Liberty Stables! Will definitely stay there again as our granddaughters live nearby! Highly recommend!" says Leslie V.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Popular equestrian sites often fill quickly. "HLC swapped over to 'site-specific' reservations..meaning that you must choose a particular site when reserving. This is VERY useful if you're familiar with the campground and have a favorite site (such as we do) but it can be a shot in the dark if you're not familiar with the campground," explains George & Patty C.
Trail conditions: Trail difficulty varies across different parks. Some are better suited for experienced riders. "The park maintains trails that wind through forests and alongside creek beds, creating varied terrain for riders of different experience levels."
Water access: Not all campsites have direct water access for horses. At Newton Factory Shoals Rec Area, "They have many water front campsites with a lot of room. They have a fire pit and a main bath house with a shower," according to Addison C.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Some parks offer additional activities for children. "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," mentions DeWayne H. about McIntosh Reserve Park.
Safety considerations: Be aware of natural hazards and rules. "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 Sarah S.
Educational opportunities: Several equestrian facilities provide learning experiences. At Quail Run at Pate's Creek, "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," notes Joseph P.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose sites that can accommodate larger rigs. "We stayed in our 26' travel trailer. We were able to walk off of the back of our site and onto the trail system, which is perfect because we are avid hikers," shares George & Patty C.
Navigation caution: Follow proper directions to avoid hazards. "Be careful and follow the Campground signs and not your GPS because you might come in a different way and have to navigate an overpass that, for done rigs, is too short!" warns Debbie K. about Hard Labor Creek.
Seasonal considerations: Plan around peak times for the best experience. "Have waited six months into our RV life to start reviews for fair comparisons. Spent 7 nights. The weekend nights were so crowded with cars spilling into the camp roads, loads of large groups at each site. Felt very claustrophobic. On weekdays the park became a(lovely) ghost town," advises Christina.