Whipoorwill Campground and White Oak Shores Camping & RV Resort offer equestrian-focused camping experiences near Cherry Point, North Carolina. Cherry Point sits in Craven County, where the average summer temperature reaches 90°F with high humidity, making spring and fall the most comfortable camping seasons. Winter temperatures typically remain above freezing, enabling year-round camping with proper preparation.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: Whipoorwill Campground features approximately 400 acres of diverse terrain suitable for equestrian activities. The property includes both wooded paths and open field riding areas. According to visitor Mathew G., there are "plenty of paths and areas to walk around and stretch your legs, along side multiple ponds with catch and release only fishing."
Fishing access: White Oak Shores Camping & RV Resort provides catch-and-release fishing opportunities in multiple on-site ponds. The facilities are exceptionally maintained, with camper Huggins G. noting, "The whole place is so very clean: the bathrooms, camping areas, swimming pool area, even the dumpsters area."
Swimming and water recreation: Several horse campgrounds near Cherry Point, North Carolina include swimming facilities. White Oak Shores offers a clean swimming pool area, providing relief during hot summer months when temperatures consistently reach the high 80s to 90s.
What campers like
Equestrian-friendly environment: Whipoorwill Campground offers dedicated horse facilities that attract equestrians. Mathew G. appreciates the "horse atmosphere and watching them do their thing from day to day" and notes the campground has "a horse arena here that holds events weekly."
Well-maintained grounds: Campers consistently mention the upkeep of facilities at horse campgrounds near Cherry Point. According to Huggins G., at White Oak Shores, "The grass is very well kept, the roads and signage, well maintained."
Quiet location: Campers appreciate the peaceful settings away from major roadways. Whipoorwill Campground is positioned "well off the main road as well so you hardly hear any traffic," according to Mathew G., creating a more immersive natural experience.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: During peak seasons (May through September), advanced reservations are strongly recommended for equestrian camping facilities near Cherry Point. Both major horse campgrounds fill quickly, particularly on weekends with scheduled equestrian events.
Access options: While most visitors arrive by vehicle, some campgrounds offer alternative access. White Oak Shores Camping & RV Resort provides boat-in, hike-in, and walk-in access options beyond standard drive-in camping.
On-site assistance: Many horse campgrounds in the area feature resident management. At Whipoorwill, Mathew G. appreciated that "the owners live on the property in the house, which I thought was awesome in case we needed anything."
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with diverse activities: When camping with children near Cherry Point, select facilities offering multiple recreation options beyond equestrian activities. Swimming pools, fishing ponds, and hiking trails provide entertainment for family members who may not ride horses.
Consider cabin accommodations: For families new to camping or visiting during uncertain weather periods, cabins provide comfort while maintaining the outdoor experience. Both primary equestrian campgrounds offer cabin options with varying levels of amenities.
Expect friendly atmospheres: The social environment at horse campgrounds near Cherry Point tends to be welcoming to families. At Whipoorwill Campground, Mathew G. found "everyone else that either drives by or lives by us always waving and stopping for conversations, just as polite as can be."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: RV campers should confirm specific hookup requirements when reserving. While both major equestrian campgrounds offer water and electric connections, sewer hookups may be limited at certain sites.
Site access considerations: Large RVs require assessment of access routes and site dimensions. Not all horse campgrounds accommodate big rigs. White Oak Shores is specifically designated as big-rig friendly, whereas Whipoorwill Campground may have size limitations for larger vehicles.
Dump station protocols: RVers utilizing on-site dump stations should verify operating hours and procedures upon arrival. Most equestrian campgrounds maintain specific guidelines for sanitary dump usage to protect groundwater near horse facilities.
