Owl Creek Horse Camp in North Carolina offers primitive equestrian camping facilities with access to woodland bridle trails. The camp sits at approximately 350 feet elevation in the rolling Piedmont region where sandy soil creates well-draining trail conditions after rain. Water access points accommodate both horses and riders, though facilities remain minimal with basic toilet amenities only.
What to do
Trail riding access: Riders at North Carolina State Fairgrounds can enjoy equestrian facilities directly across from the campground. "Fun to check out whatever is happening at the fairgrounds and the horse complex is across the street," notes Liz C.
Scenic hiking options: Explore forested paths at William B. Umstead State Park Campground with varying difficulty levels. "There are a wide variety of single track to larger sand/dirt paths. My cross country team will come here for long day," shares Sarah M., highlighting the trail diversity.
Lake activities: Take advantage of Falls Lake's swimming areas with designated safety zones. "The lake is great, roped off area for swimming with a great little sandy beach area next to a playground and toilets," mentions Shannon S., describing the family-friendly setup.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Crosswinds Campground offers generous camping areas with natural barriers. "Loved having a double site with my parents. Close to the beach where we sat for hours. Clean bathrooms. Spacious sites. Plenty of privacy," reports Angela M.
Wildlife viewing: The natural settings attract various wildlife species for observation. "Located on a semi rural area, the sites are very wooded and quiet. There was a lake nearby with an open sky where you could see hundreds of stars at night," explains Kristen W. about her experience.
Outdoor recreation options: Multiple activity options exist within short distances. "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," shares Bran P. about regional outdoor access.
What you should know
Water management: During wet periods, some campgrounds experience drainage issues. "Mud hole, the site we had was under water after a light rain and didn't dry," warns Rick M. about seasonal conditions at certain sites.
Security considerations: Campground oversight varies significantly between locations. "The issue here is lack of oversight. There are security folks, but only if you call and request them," explains Liz C., noting the importance of self-awareness.
Gate restrictions: B.W. Wells Campground enforces strict entry times. "They lock the gate after a certain hour. If you need something or arrive after hours you are out of luck," cautions Debbie F. about access limitations.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: Choose sites near play areas to keep children entertained. "Loved that there was a playground near the site. The site itself was gravelly and not super private but it was great- the hikes around were stunning," recommends Amanda L.
Group accommodations: For family gatherings, seek designated group areas. "I camped here with a large group and we fit in one campground nicely. Some people slept in tents but a lot strung Eno hammocks between the Carolina Pines," describes Sarah M.
Swimming safety: Equestrian camping near Clayton provides family-friendly water options with safety features. "B.W. Wells Campground at Falls Lake felt like stepping into a quiet forest hideaway, where the kids could explore trails, spot eagles over the water, and watch butterflies while we enjoyed campfires under the trees," shares Maria Mercedes M.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Jordan Lake State Recreation Area offers relatively flat parking for large vehicles. "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.
Dump station only: Plan accordingly for waste management limitations. "This campground is pretty great except for two things. There is no septic on your site," advises Debbie F. about preparing for sewer arrangements.
GPS coordinates: Ensure proper navigation instructions when traveling to horse camping facilities near Clayton. "If you put the address into your GPS, it will take you to the main fairgrounds. You need to put NC state fairgrounds CAMPGROUND. It is about a quarter mile from the main fairgrounds," explains Sheri K. about finding correct locations.
