Best Equestrian Camping near Cary, NC

North Carolina State Fairgrounds provides equestrian camping with full hookups for RVs and trailers adjacent to the Hunt Horse Complex. The campground features spacious sites with water, sewer, and electrical connections on gravel roadways with grass sites. Horse owners have direct access to the equestrian facility next door, where cold water showers and public bathrooms are available in Barn B of the Horse Complex. The campground accommodates large rigs and offers convenient access for horse trailers. Security staff patrol the grounds, though oversight is limited and campers should be prepared for self-contained camping as there are few amenities beyond the hookups. Weekend horse shows regularly take place at the adjacent complex.

Located just minutes from downtown Raleigh, the fairgrounds campground serves as a practical base for equestrians participating in events at the horse complex. Sites are first-come, first-served with no reservations accepted. The actual camping address is 801 Youth Center Drive, with two distinct camping areas—one in the woods behind the horse complex and another along Youth Center Drive closer to fairground events. Owl Creek Horse Camp in the Bankhead National Forest offers a more primitive camping alternative with drinking water and toilet facilities for tent campers. Both locations provide strategic access to regional bridle trails and riding opportunities. The fairgrounds location has a 14-day maximum stay policy, though enforcement varies. Campers report the convenience of restaurants and services nearby makes this location particularly suitable for equestrians needing urban amenities while attending horse events.

Best Equestrian Sites Near Cary, North Carolina (7)

    1. Crosswinds Campground — Jordan Lake State Recreation Area

    30 Reviews
    New Hill, NC
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (919) 362-0586

    $27 - $77 / night

    "This area is such a short drive from the triangle area of North Carolina, yet this park feels quite remote. Like many state parks, this one excels in the services department. "

    "Located just 30 miles west of Raleigh, Jordan Lake provides 7 different access points throughout this amazing natural preserve. "

    2. North Carolina State Fairgrounds

    19 Reviews
    Raleigh, NC
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (919) 612-6767

    $35 / night

    "This campground is adjacent to the NC State Fairgrounds. Sites are spacious and full hook ups. Gravel roadways and grass/gravel sites."

    "Restaurants and downtown Raleigh are within short driving distance. Public bathrooms and showers (cold water) are a 2 minute walk to Horse Complex H6, Barn B Very little tree cover."

    3. William B. Umstead State Park Campground

    18 Reviews
    Morrisville, NC
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (919) 571-4170

    $27 / night

    "We've hiked umstead and other local trails almost every week for the past 5 months."

    "Umstead is conveniently located in the heart of Raleigh, NC. It seems to be an outdoor oasis as you can get lost in the woods with the hustle and bustle of the city all around you."

    4. B.W. Wells — Falls Lake State Recreation Area

    10 Reviews
    Wake Forest, NC
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (984) 867-8000

    $72 / night

    "There are tons of hiking trails all around and plenty of bike trails too! Conveniently located north of Raleigh, NC and close to many major highways."

    "None of the sites are located right on the lake. You either walk the trails or drive down."

    5. Cane Creek Campground and RV Park

    6 Reviews
    Snow Camp, NC
    36 miles
    Website
    +1 (336) 376-8324

    "Our site (17) was on the opposite side of the real lake access and right across from the annual spots so we never really had too much privacy but most of the neighbors were very curteous and friendly."

    "Located close to nothing else, this campground was so peaceful at night. During the day, it’s beautiful. It’s got showers with hot water and accessible facilities. Great camping!"

    6. Cedarock Park

    4 Reviews
    Graham, NC
    37 miles
    Website

    $10 / night

    "Cedarock Park, located in Burlington, North Carolina, is a hidden gem for all sorts of outdoor activities. The park offers hike-in camping with a handful of sites scattered along Rock Creek."

    "The park is almost 500 acres in size and offers:

    • 6 miles of hiking trails
    • 6 miles of equestrian trails
    • 2 disc golf courses with a total of 36 holes for play
    • A historical farm restored"

    7. Owl Creek Horse Camp - Bankhead NF

    Be the first to review!
    Mamers, NC
    32 miles
    Website
    +1 (334) 832-4470

    $5 / night

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Equestrian Camping Reviews near Cary, NC

87 Reviews of 7 Cary Campgrounds



Guide to Cary

Horse camping in North Carolina offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure and equestrian-friendly amenities, making it a perfect getaway for horse lovers.

Tips for equestrian camping near Cary, North Carolina

  • The William B. Umstead State Park Campground provides easy access to trails suitable for horseback riding, allowing you to explore the beautiful surroundings.
  • Cane Creek Campground and RV Park features spacious sites and facilities that cater to both horses and riders, ensuring a comfortable stay.
  • For a more rustic experience, consider Cedarock Park, which offers hike-in camping with access to equestrian trails amidst scenic landscapes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Cary, NC?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Cary, NC is Crosswinds Campground — Jordan Lake State Recreation Area with a 4.5-star rating from 30 reviews.

What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Cary, NC?

TheDyrt.com has all 7 equestrian camping locations near Cary, NC, with real photos and reviews from campers.