Bristol Fields Horse Camp is located in the Nantahala National Forest near Bear Creek, North Carolina, at approximately 3,500 feet elevation. The camp sits on Forest Service Road 67, accessible via a 4-mile gravel road that requires cautious driving. The climate varies seasonally with summer temperatures typically 10-15 degrees cooler than surrounding lowlands.
What to do
Hiking trails for non-equestrians: Trails from Bristol Fields offer challenging terrain with substantial elevation gain. "You can ride to & from your campsite and never have to load up. The Tsali system starts right from the campground," notes Tony C. from Tsali Campground.
Explore waterfall trails: Multiple waterfall hikes are accessible within a 30-minute drive. "If you visit make sure to drive a little further down the road and take some of the many hikes along the river. I suggest the Laurel Falls trail to a gorgeous secluded waterfall where you can take a dip on a hot summer day," recommends Asher K. from Standing Indian Campground.
Creek activities: The mountain stream provides opportunities for wading and cooling off during warmer months. "A nice feature someone created was a 'dam' of rocks with a round pool to sit in," notes Shelly S.
What campers like
Complete digital disconnection: The lack of cell service and electricity creates an authentic primitive camping experience. "Total black at night meant excellent star gazing and the creek was the loudest thing out there," reports Shelly S.
Road access: Despite being remote, the Forest Service Road is maintained well enough for standard vehicles. "It is a wide road (about 1 1/2 lane) but passing in some areas would be interesting. Stay right and you will find the sign," advises Shelly S.
Proximity to other destinations: The location provides a strategic base for exploring multiple areas in the national forest. "There are several large fire pit areas throughout and a fire circle with wood chairs in the main area," notes Shelly S., while Mickey L. from Tsali Campground adds it "has one of the best views of the lake and GSMNP that I know of."
What you should know
Weather conditions: Mountain weather can change rapidly with afternoon thunderstorms common in summer. "Hurricane Creek Camp has a nice little river that runs near by the camp that you can wash dishes and bathe in with the perfect noise not to loud not to silent to hear the highway," notes Noskiz from Hurricane Creek Camp.
Vehicle requirements: While standard vehicles can access Bristol Fields, high-clearance vehicles are recommended for some nearby dispersed camping areas. "Definitely high clearance 4x4 or bikes. Sketchy but that's our style," warns Clint W.
Limited facilities: Plan accordingly for the primitive nature of the site. "What you bring is what you'll have," states Justin Z. The pit toilet is located in the third section of the campground, which may be a considerable walk from some campsites.
Tips for camping with families
Evening activities: Prepare games and activities that don't require electricity or technology. "This is a good place to sort of step back in time and relax and unplug/unwind," suggests Karen R. from Trackrock Campground.
Bring extra water containers: While the stream provides water for horses, potable water for human consumption must be brought in. "The campground has a ton of activities for the whole family. Just a short drive into the GSMNP, we did hiking during the day, explored Bryson City, then enjoyed the campground at night," recommends Melinda J. from Deep Creek Tube Center & Campground.
Educational opportunities: Use the dark night skies for stargazing and constellation identification. "This is a great campground, but can get a little busy. That doesn't make it good or bad, but you need to know what to plan for. If you want nature and solitude, go somewhere else," advises DrDavid P. from Cades Cove Campground.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Bristol Fields is primarily designed for horse trailers rather than recreational RVs. The turnaround areas can be tight for longer rigs. "The initial trails lack scenic long-distance views until reaching higher elevations."
Leveling equipment: Bring adequate leveling blocks as the camping areas aren't graded specifically for RVs. "Unless there is another way into this lovely park that I am unaware of, I would not attempt to tow a 5th wheel or other large trailer to this location," cautions John K.
Water management: No hookups means managing water carefully. "The campground is divided into three distinct areas" with varying proximity to the creek, so RV placement should be planned accordingly if creek access is important.
Guide
