Equestrian enthusiasts seeking horse campgrounds near Sandy Springs, Georgia can access multiple options within 60 miles. The Atlanta metropolitan area features dedicated equestrian camping facilities in several surrounding counties, each with different trail systems and amenities. Most horse campgrounds require advance reservations during peak seasons when weekend occupancy reaches capacity.
What to do
Trail riding at multiple distances: Newton Factory Shoals Rec Area offers waterfront campsites with river views. "Such a great campsite for very cheap. They have many water front campsites with a lot of room," writes camper Addison C. The campground manager frequently checks on campers and provides historical information about the area.
Water activities after riding: McIntosh Reserve Park provides access to the Chattahoochee River for fishing and kayaking. "We managed to find a very private area all to ourselves. Only $12 for the night," notes reviewer Cass P. The park includes multiple trails for horseback riding plus a splash pad for cooling off during summer months.
Bird watching between rides: Don Carter State Park Campground features trails where wildlife viewing opportunities abound. "Do some animal watching or photography. From 6 in the evening and beyond you will find deer grazing in late summer and early fall," suggests Crystal C. The park includes a canoe trail and beach area accessible to campers.
What campers like
Level sites with hookups: Hard Labor Creek State Park Campground maintains clean facilities that equestrian campers appreciate. "The bath houses/comfort stations are brand new (including laundry rooms) and the camp hosts keep them spotless," reports George & Patty C. The park includes a dedicated equestrian campground separate from the main camping areas.
Privacy between campsites: Campers at Liberty Stables enjoy the working horse farm atmosphere. "Beautiful property with farm animals to look at. Will definitely stay again," writes Rachel. This 54-acre property includes horses, ponies, goats, sheep, and chickens plus designated camping areas with fire pits.
Modern facilities: The bathhouses at most horse campgrounds include showers, though quality varies. "I will say that you should probably bring flipflops for the shower because it doesn't look like it's been cleaned in a year but it's nice having a option for one," advises Addison C. about Newton Factory Shoals facilities. Most equestrian campsites include raised platforms for tents, fire rings, and picnic tables.
What you should know
First-come availability: Many horse campgrounds operate without advance reservations. "This campground is first come, first serve. It is $15 dollars a night," explains Nicolle about Newton Factory Shoals. Campground managers typically visit sites daily to collect payments and assist campers.
Location confusion: Some equestrian campgrounds have separate facilities from main recreation areas. "Note to future campers: the campground is NOT located at the address provided. This is the recreational park. The campground is actually up the road," warns Nicolle about Factory Shoals Recreation Park.
Site preparation needed: James Shackleford Memorial Park and other locations require some site preparation. "I cleaned up a bit of trash around my site when I arrived," mentions Sarah S. about another nearby park. Most sites include flat ground but may need clearing before setting up camp.
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with play areas: Hard Labor Creek offers family-friendly activities beyond horseback riding. "There is a putt putt (mini golf) course. You can rent kayaks and kayak in the lake. They offered a kayak by moonlight group tour that was fun," shares Maethea R. The bathrooms remain clean and accessible for children.
Pack for swimming opportunities: Don Carter State Park includes beach access for children. "We love that it's on the lake because family members have boats and its just easy to jump on at the campsite dock. There is also a beach for the kids to play at as well, very well kept," explains Cameron G.
Consider timing for quieter experiences: McIntosh Reserve Park offers varying experiences depending on when you visit. "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 about a similar nearby park.
Tips from RVers
Check site sizes before booking: Don Carter State Park features paved sites with size limitations. "Our campsite was a tad bit small for our camper, large campers like motorhomes or fifth-wheels will not fit," cautions Cameron G. Most equestrian campgrounds accommodate smaller trailers but have limited space for large rigs.
Scout hookup locations: Even designated RV sites may have unusual hookup configurations. "Nice and easy to utilize all amenities. Nice having grey tank connection at the sites," notes Brett D. about Don Carter State Park. Many equestrian campgrounds offer water and electric but limited sewer connections.
Verify surface conditions: Some RV sites at horse campgrounds have challenging surfaces. "This campground is definitely set up for primitive camping, focusing more on tents. We have a 10 foot trailer. We were able to back in to our spot with no problem. The site was not level," explains Nicolle about Newton Factory Shoals.
