Uwharrie National Forest offers prime equestrian camping opportunities near Carthage, North Carolina. Located approximately 30 miles from Carthage, this region features rolling hills with elevations reaching 1,000 feet. The forest's extensive trail system accommodates riders of all skill levels across its 51,000 acres, with optimal riding seasons in spring and fall when temperatures average 60-75°F.
What to do
Trail riding access points: Multiple entry points throughout Uwharrie National Forest connect riders to the trail system. At Badin Lake Group Camp, visitors appreciate the direct lake access. "There's a nice sand beach on the lake and a boat launch as well. Some of the sites offer a tie-off of your boat adjacent to your campsite," notes Paula U.
Off-road adventures: The forest offers designated OHV trails for those interested in motorized recreation. Near Arrowhead Campground, "Off-road enthusiasts will find this campground ideal. The onsite host advised that it is very popular with the off-road enthusiasts. Enclosed and flatbed trailers filled most of the sites," explains Dave V.
Lake activities: Badin Lake provides opportunities for swimming and fishing. "Boat ramp right by the entrance. Overall an awesome camp ground!" reports Matt R. The 5,300-acre lake maintains moderate temperatures year-round, making it suitable for water activities from April through October.
What campers like
Spacious sites: The camping areas near Carthage offer generous room for equestrian equipment. At Uwharrie Hunt Camp, campers appreciate the layout. "The campsites are rustic, grassy and comfortable, though no privacy in between. Most sites are a short walk from the parking lot, so you might have to do a little bit of schlepping, but not much," shares Shari G.
Value pricing: Budget-conscious campers note the affordable options. "The campground is a quaint, and only $5 per night! With only 6 sites and what appears to be an over-sized parking lot right next to it, the lot accommodates the OHV trailers," mentions Shari G. about Uwharrie Hunt Camp.
Clean facilities: Many equestrian campgrounds maintain good standards despite heavy use. A visitor to Morrow Mountain State Park noted, "I campground as well kept and clean. The bathhouse is brand new. The camp host was very helpful and checked on everybody, every day."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Weather patterns affect trail conditions in horse camping facilities around Carthage. "During the night it is around 60 which is pleasant. They do sell for 6 dollars for a bunch of firewood," reports phillip L. about Canebrake Horse Camp.
Campground population: Different user groups frequent these areas on various schedules. "It is free camping in this area on the weekend these horse clubs will come in with your trailers in horse they're not very friendly they're nosy and they do not like Outsiders but this is a national park to it is open to you to hear up to 14 days," observes Harlin L.
Timing matters: For a quieter experience at equestrian campgrounds near Carthage, consider weekday visits. "Mid-week it was filled," notes Dave V. about Arrowhead Campground, suggesting the popularity of these sites requires advance planning, especially during peak riding seasons.
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children often enjoy the animal sightings in the area. At Morrow Mountain State Park, one camper shared, "We exhausted ourselves hiking and canoeing and much more stuff to do! Nice sites with electric hookups. Firewood available. Will definitely be back!"
Kid-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds provide features specifically for younger campers. Double L Farms Campground offers unique experiences: "If you have a family with small children, they will love the horses, chickens, guinea hens, and the couple of friendly cats and dogs that they own," writes Marvin D.
Educational opportunities: Some sites provide learning experiences. "In the morning Brian took our two year old on a tour of their amazing farm — horses, cows, ducks, chickens, and all the tractors of our toddlers' dreams," shares Heather M. about Double L Farms, making it suitable for family visits to equestrian areas.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Equestrian campgrounds near Carthage vary in amenities for RVers. Crosswinds Campground accommodates larger rigs: "This was our very first full-time RV park. We loved being in the park and it easily accommodated our 39ft. Class A. Back-in site but with plenty of room to do so," notes Paul H.
Site accessibility: Access roads to horse-friendly campgrounds may present challenges. "This campground is very cramped and the owner is very unfriendly and was unwilling to work with me after I asked not to park my fifth wheel under a hickory tree that was rubbing the top of my recently recoated roof," warns Nina B. about a challenging experience.
Dump station logistics: Some facilities have limited services. About Crosswinds Campground, Debbie F. mentions "this campground is pretty great except for two things. there is no septic on your site, and they lock the gate after a certain hour. if you need something or arrive after hours you are out of luck."
